Centurion 57 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Centurion 57 began its production run in 2014, marking a significant return for the legendary Centurion series, a cornerstone of the Wauquiez brand since its inception. Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design, known for their expertise in creating high-performance cruising yachts, penned the lines for this model, aiming for a cruiser-racer profile. This design aligns perfectly with Wauquiez's long-standing manufacturing ethos, which prioritizes durability, quality, and an unwavering commitment to the owner's experience. From its early days, Wauquiez has emphasized solid fiberglass construction and the use of high-grade materials, ensuring their vessels are built for a lifetime of sailing, 10]. The Centurion 57 is particularly noted for its "hybrid design," which seeks to marry the robust characteristics favored in northern European cruising with the open, comfortable living aspects desired in Mediterranean sailing. While the standard Centurion 57 features a maximum draft of 7.55 feet, Wauquiez also offered variations, including a shoal draft option at 6.92 feet and a deep draft version at 8.20 feet, catering to different cruising preferences and regional requirements.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Centurion 57 is engineered to deliver a balanced and capable sailing experience, reflecting its design as a performance cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.7, she exhibits characteristics of a moderate to performance-oriented cruiser, suggesting good all-around performance across various wind conditions. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 171 further categorizes her as a light to performance cruiser, indicating a relatively light displacement for her length, which contributes to her agility and speed. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.306 suggests moderate stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent breeze while maintaining a comfortable motion.

On the water, the Centurion 57 is described as having the "heart of a real cruising yacht," feeling robust and secure even when heeled. Owners and reviewers note her ability to feel solid underfoot, providing ample handholds for safety. She is designed to be swift and maneuverable, capable in challenging conditions. Her 9/10 fractional rig, featuring swept spreaders and no backstay, is optimized to maximize the yacht's performance potential. While generally praised for her offshore capabilities, some observers have noted that the cockpit, though elegant, might be considered slightly small and shallow for extended bluewater passages, depending on individual preferences.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Centurion 57 is characterized by a "warm and calming" ambiance, rather than a flashy or overtly modern aesthetic. Wauquiez's signature waxed teak dominates the woodwork, upholding a tradition of rich, quality finishes that dates back to the shipyard's founding in 1965. The yacht is typically configured with a three-cabin layout, which is noted as the primary option, offering a plush living environment.

While specific dimensions vary, the spacious saloon is a focal point, designed for comfort and luxury. Wauquiez is well-regarded for its emphasis on bright interiors, particularly in its deck saloon models, which often feature large windows providing panoramic views and abundant natural light. The design pays close attention to detail and offers high-grade materials throughout. Furthermore, the Centurion 57 boasts generous and well-sited tank capacities for both fuel and water, enhancing her suitability for long-distance cruising.