Amphitrite 45 MS (Wauquiez) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Amphitrite 45 MS begins in 1988, when Wauquiez, already recognized for its meticulously constructed vessels, introduced this model, continuing production until 1994. During this era, Wauquiez's founding philosophy, established by Henri Wauquiez in 1965, emphasized building "extraordinary boats" with an unwavering commitment to durability and quality. The shipyard was known for its solid fiberglass hulls and decks, characteristics undoubtedly applied to the Amphitrite 45 MS, reinforcing its robust build for serious sailing.

The design by Holman & Pye aimed to create a yacht that was both exceedingly solid and comfortable in all sea conditions. The "MS" designation signifies "MotorSailer," indicating a design that offers excellent sailing characteristics while also providing enhanced comfort and propulsion capabilities under power, a hallmark of vessels intended for long-distance cruising. Only 21 units of the Amphitrite 45 MS were built, highlighting its non-industrialized, small-series production, ensuring a high level of craftsmanship for each vessel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 1097.92 square feet, including a 140% genoa, and a displacement of 31,967 pounds, the Amphitrite 45 MS possesses a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 17.4. While just shy of the very highest numbers for light-air performance, this ratio suggests a capable cruiser that should perform adequately in lighter breezes, especially when utilizing its full sail plan with the generous genoa. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of approximately 0.32 indicates a moderate level of initial stiffness. However, despite this ratio, owners and reviews consistently describe the Amphitrite 45 MS as "reasonably stable" and "stiff," with an "excellent righting capability," underscoring its impressive seaworthiness in real-world conditions.

The Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio for the Amphitrite 45 MS is exceptionally high, around 782. This firmly places it in the category of a very heavy, traditional cruiser, corroborating descriptions of it as a "heavy bluewater cruising boat." This significant displacement contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it well-suited for extended offshore passages. With a fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, the yacht is designed for reliable tracking and steering, even in challenging conditions. Its hull speed is calculated at 7.87 knots, indicative of its cruising pedigree.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wauquiez Amphitrite 45 MS is celebrated for its classic, warm, and comfortable atmosphere, characterized by traditional teak woodwork and thoughtful detailing. A defining feature of this model is its deck saloon, which was a pioneering concept at the time of its introduction. This elevated saloon design provides abundant natural light and panoramic views, enhancing the living experience onboard by allowing occupants to enjoy their surroundings even from inside the cabin.

The layout typically features two large private cabins, each with its own marine head and a separate shower compartment. The owner's cabin is often located aft, offering a spacious and private retreat, while a comfortable guest cabin is situated in the bow. Some configurations may also include a pilot berth or a small additional cabin between the saloon and the owner's cabin, maximizing sleeping capacity. The saloon itself is designed for comfort, complemented by a functional galley, making the boat well-suited for extended stays. Ample water tank capacity, reported at 211 gallons (800 liters), further supports self-sufficiency for long-distance cruising, with some vessels even equipped with water makers. [1, The overall interior finish and choice of materials reflect Wauquiez's commitment to luxury and durability.