Salona 46 Information, Review, Specs

The Salona 46 emerged in 2020, continuing Salona Yachts' tradition of crafting sailboats that blend exhilarating racing performance with cruising comfort. Founded in 2002 by AD Boats Ltd. in collaboration with AD Plastik, Salona's ambitious vision was to build globally competitive sailing yachts. The design philosophy, evident in models like the Salona 46, emphasizes sporty, clean, and elegant hull and deck lines, a hallmark of Cossutti Yacht Design's contributions to the brand. 14, 17, Builder Article Maurizio Cossutti's philosophy centers on a shared dream between designer, client, and boatyard to create each new boat.

Salona's commitment to engineering excellence is central to the 46's construction. The hull and deck are built using cutting-edge vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates, ensuring a robust yet lightweight structure. A unique stainless steel internal frame further enhances structural integrity, supporting the keel and mast for exceptional strength, stiffness, and safety at sea. While specific variations like MkI or MkII models are not widely noted for the Salona 46, its design offers a deep draft keel option, indicating a focus on performance. The yacht was showcased at the Southampton Boat Show in September 2021, receiving highly positive reviews.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 46 is designed as a performance cruiser, a characteristic well-reflected in its specifications. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.29, the Salona 46 suggests strong performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, allowing it to move efficiently and respond well to subtle breezes. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 149.52 places it in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser category, rather than a heavy, traditional displacement vessel. This combination points to a boat that is relatively agile and capable of competitive speeds.

While the Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.29 is on the lower side for a performance cruiser, Salona's use of a lead bulb keel and a robust internal stainless steel frame contribute to its overall stability and stiffness. This design approach allows the boat to stand up to its sail plan effectively, providing a balanced and controlled sailing experience. Owners and reviewers describe the Salona 46 as fast and easy to sail, even with a reduced crew. The fractional rig and oversized winches simplify sail handling, with the main sail easily hoisted with an electric winch and dropping neatly into a stack pack. It is lauded for its "tough, sporty, and fighting fit" nature, delivering on both performance and luxury.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Salona 46 offers a bright and airy interior, a significant feature for a performance cruiser. The yacht is available in both three and four-cabin layouts, both providing king-size beds and full standing height, along with good-sized wardrobes. While specific maximum headroom is not provided in the data, the mention of "full standing height" across both layouts suggests comfortable living spaces. The interior design aims for a high level of customization, allowing owners to tailor the space to their preferences.

General reviews suggest that while the interior may not feature the same level of handcrafted finishes found in some Scandinavian yards, it offers quality features at a competitive price. Descriptions of similar Salona models indicate a focus on functionality and comfort, typically featuring a well-appointed salon, galley, and head arrangements designed for extended cruising. The emphasis on high-quality design and comfort ensures a luxurious and comfortable experience for owners and guests.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Salona 46 consistently praise its blend of performance and comfort, highlighting its ease of handling and impressive speed. The availability of electric propulsion systems, as featured in the "BEST GREEN BOAT" award-winning version, is also a notable point of satisfaction for environmentally conscious owners. The solid yet lightweight construction, combined with the innovative stainless steel internal frame, instills confidence in its structural integrity and safety at sea.

Anecdotal evidence from early adopters and reviews suggests that the Salona 46 delivers on its promise as a versatile yacht. Owners appreciate the thoughtful design by Cossutti Yacht Design, which results in a yacht that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly functional for both competitive racing and relaxed cruising. While specific long-term common problems are not yet widely documented given its recent production start in 2020, the brand's reputation for uncompromised construction quality generally leads to high owner satisfaction.