Centurion 49 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Centurion 49 emerged from the esteemed Wauquiez shipyard during a period when the builder was solidifying its reputation for crafting "extraordinary boats" designed for a lifetime of sailing. The yard's founding philosophy, emphasizing durability, quality, and an unwavering commitment to the owner's experience, is evident in the Centurion 49's construction. Designed by Edward Dubois, the Centurion 49 is noted as part of the Centurion 47/49 range, signifying an evolution of successful designs aimed at serious cruising. Dubois's design for the Centurion 49 focused on creating a vessel "conçu pour les grandes traversées" (designed for long passages), balancing a seaworthy hull with a slightly more spacious interior design. Wauquiez's manufacturing ethos, characterized by non-industrialized, small-series production, ensured each of the 33 Centurion 49s built received meticulous attention to detail, utilizing high-grade materials and solid fiberglass construction for both hull and deck.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wauquiez Centurion 49, measuring just over 50 feet in length overall with a waterline of 40.25 feet, is well-proportioned for spirited performance and comfortable motion. Its design ratios reflect its balanced approach to cruising. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.23, the Centurion 49 demonstrates a good ability to perform well in light air, suggesting it is responsive and can maintain speed even in softer breezes.

The yacht’s Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 0.414, indicates a very stiff and stable vessel. This high ballast ratio means the Centurion 49 is well-equipped to stand up to a strong breeze, providing a secure and comfortable motion in a seaway, a crucial attribute for offshore passages. Furthermore, its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 211.46 places it in the moderate displacement category, signifying a yacht that is not overly heavy, yet possesses the mass necessary for comfortable cruising in varied conditions. Its deep draft of 8.53 feet, coupled with a wide beam of 14.67 feet and a spade rudder, contributes to its excellent sailing characteristics, providing significant lateral resistance and precise steering control. Owners can expect a boat that is both capable in challenging conditions and swift and maneuverable, consistent with Wauquiez's reputation for performance bluewater cruisers.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Wauquiez Centurion 49 is designed for comfortable living during extended voyages, reflecting Wauquiez's commitment to refined interiors and onboard comfort. Typically, the Centurion 49 features a three-cabin layout with two heads, offering ample accommodation for up to eight people. The design prioritizes spacious and functional living areas, a hallmark of Wauquiez yachts.

While specific details can vary between individual yachts, common interior arrangements include a comfortable main salon, a well-appointed galley, and private sleeping cabins. The use of high-quality materials, such as teak for the deck, is indicative of the yacht's luxurious finish. Owners report a comfortable headroom of approximately 190 cm (6 feet, 3 inches), contributing to the airy feel below deck. The interior often features thoughtful storage solutions and good ventilation, making it well-suited for extended periods at sea. Descriptions of the interior highlight a modern design for its era, with elements like blue lighting in some models adding to the ambiance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Wauquiez Centurion 49 consistently praise its robust construction and suitability as a genuine bluewater sailing yacht. Many Centurion 49s have been meticulously maintained, with some remaining in single-family ownership since new, a testament to their enduring quality and the satisfaction they provide. While specific widespread issues are not commonly cited for this model in general reviews, the overall sentiment among owners aligns with Wauquiez's reputation for building durable and reliable vessels. The emphasis on solid fiberglass construction and quality materials means these boats are built to last and withstand the rigors of ocean sailing.