Salona 45 Information, Review, Specs

The Salona 45 marked a significant debut for Salona Yachts, becoming the initial model for the brand in 2005. The design, a product of the respected J&J Design office, aimed to create a boat that was not only fast and comfortable but also highly successful. AD Boats Ltd., the builder, is celebrated for its commitment to advanced construction techniques, including the use of vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates for the hull and deck. A defining characteristic of Salona yachts, including the 45, is the integrated stainless steel internal frame, which provides exceptional strength and stiffness by supporting the keel and mast. This robust construction ethos underlies the Salona 45's ability to perform well in demanding conditions while maintaining its cruising credentials. While no distinct MkI or MkII versions are widely noted, Salona is known for its flexibility in accommodating owner preferences, with customizability in areas like interior layout and equipment.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 45 is celebrated for its excellent sailing characteristics, striking a fine balance between speed and stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 20.12, the Salona 45 is well-powered, suggesting strong performance in lighter air conditions, a characteristic rare for a cruising boat of its size. Its ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of around 0.34 indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze while maintaining comfort.

Despite a displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of approximately 330.6, which suggests a robust and substantial vessel for its waterline length, the Salona 45 is consistently praised for its swiftness and weatherly attributes. This combination points to a yacht that is not only capable of handling challenging sea states with uncannily stable motion but also provides exhilarating performance. Its fin keel contributes to splendid maneuverability, enhancing its responsiveness and handling. Owners and reviewers often highlight the Salona 45 as being smooth and easy to sail, even with a reduced crew, making it versatile for various sailing styles from competitive regattas to relaxed cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Salona 45 is designed to offer comfort and practicality, making it a pleasant space for extended stays. The yacht was offered with at least three distinct interior layouts, all sharing a common central arrangement for the saloon, galley, head, and navigation station. These layouts typically provide either a three or four-cabin configuration, with well-finished interiors that reflect the builder's commitment to quality materials. While specific headroom figures are not consistently published, the overall design aims to maximize livable space within its 44-foot length. Practical considerations, such as good access to the engine through its front panel, simplify routine maintenance tasks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Salona 45 consistently praise its solid construction, a hallmark of Salona Yachts' meticulous building process. The dual capability of the Salona 45 as both a formidable racer and a comfortable cruiser is frequently highlighted, fulfilling the desires of sailors who appreciate performance without sacrificing liveability. Reviewers have described it as a "very successful design" that is "very pleasant to stay on inside, a pleasure to sail on outside". While specific common problems or recurring issues are not prominently reported in general owner reviews, the overall sentiment points to a well-regarded yacht that delivers on its promise of quality, speed, and comfort.