Sunbeam 46.1 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Sunbeam 46.1 marks another significant chapter in the storied history of Sunbeam Yachts, a company with roots tracing back to a carpentry workshop established in 1838. Building on over 65 years of yacht development experience, Sunbeam officially rebranded as Sunbeam Yachts in 1977, coinciding with their adoption of modern materials like fiberglass, which defines the 46.1's solid hull and deck construction.

The Sunbeam 46.1, produced from 2018 to 2021, is the result of a continued collaboration with the Slovenian naval architects J&J Design. This partnership has been instrumental in shaping Sunbeam's signature blend of "highest functionality, timeless design, and comfortable sailing experience". For the 46.1, J&J Design aimed to deliver the "best possible ocean-cruising design," adopting a modern, elegant, and classic design language that reflects Sunbeam's contemporary aesthetic, similar to that of the Sunbeam 40.1. The shipyard's ethos, deeply rooted in craftsmanship, focuses on producing yachts known for their quality, design, and service, catering to families, couples, and even single-handed sailors. The Sunbeam 46.1 was offered with variations focusing on the functional setup of the rig, and features a deep keel as standard, with an optional shallower keel available.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 48.39 feet and a waterline length of 43.5 feet, the Sunbeam 46.1 is designed as a performance cruiser with a sporty character. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 21.07 suggests excellent performance in lighter air, indicating she can accelerate quickly and maintain speed even in marginal conditions. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.35 (35%), contributes to reasonable stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze, though perhaps not as stiffly as a dedicated heavy-displacement cruiser. Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 155.4 indicates a relatively lighter build for her size, further emphasizing her performance orientation.

Reviewers and the builder attest to the 46.1's enjoyable handling characteristics. Sunbeam Yachts' owner, Gerhard Schöchl, has noted the boat's good handling. The design prioritizes both spirited performance and comfortable cruising, aiming to provide a delightful sailing experience. The combination of a fractional sloop rig and a spade rudder contributes to responsive steering and overall maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sunbeam 46.1 is designed for comfort and spaciousness, reflecting Sunbeam Yachts' commitment to exquisite finishes. With a maximum headroom of 6.23 feet, the saloon offers ample standing room. The standard layout typically features three spacious double cabins and two heads, providing comfortable accommodation for larger crews or families. A notable feature is the saloon, which spans the full width of the boat, easily seating eight or more people, creating a generous social space.

The interior joinery often utilizes light wood finishes, such as oak or African teak, imparting a sense of character and brightness throughout the cabins. The design prioritizes functionality with a timeless aesthetic, consistent with Sunbeam's overall philosophy. While specific details on storage and ventilation require direct inspection, the general emphasis on comfort and livability suggests well-integrated solutions for long-term cruising. A fixed windshield is also a distinctive feature, enhancing comfort in the cockpit.