Allures 45.9 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Allures 45.9 is defined by its versatility, stemming primarily from its integral centerboard configuration. With the board fully retracted, the yacht draws a mere 1.06 meters (3.5 feet), allowing it to enter shallow lagoons or beach itself on a drying tide. When fully deployed to 2.90 meters (9.5 feet), the centerboard provides the necessary lift and lateral stability to track efficiently to windward. In a sea trial conducted by Yachting World, the yacht demonstrated impressive stiffness and a balanced helm, largely attributed to its twin-rudder configuration which maintains grip even when the hull is heeled.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the heavy-displacement category, the 45.9 is not a light-air racer; however, its generous sail area of approximately 100 square meters (upwind) ensures it maintains momentum in moderate breezes. The yacht is rigged as a cutter, often featuring a self-tacking jib for ease of handling and a larger genoa or reacher for off-wind performance. Owners frequently note that the boat's "sea-kindliness"—its ability to move through waves without jarring motion—is a result of the rounded aluminum hull sections and the concentration of weight near the center of the vessel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Allures 45.9 breaks from the traditional "dark cabin" aesthetic of many metal boats. The shipyard utilizes large hull ports and a wraparound coachroof window to flood the saloon with natural light. The interior is available in two primary configurations: a three-cabin layout ideal for families and a two-cabin "owner" version. The two-cabin variant is particularly favored by long-distance couples as it converts the starboard aft cabin into a massive technical room and workshop, accessible both from the galley and the cockpit.

The galley is longitudinal, providing a secure workspace while at sea, and the forward-facing navigation station is designed for serious passage planning, offering ample room for redundant electronics. Materials typically include light oaks or American cherry veneers, which contrast with the visible, yet elegantly finished, aluminum structures in the bilge. A significant sibling variation is the "Lifting Keel" version; while most Allures 45.9s are built as centerboarders (where the ballast is internal and the board is unweighted), a select few were commissioned with a weighted lifting keel to provide a lower center of gravity for those prioritizing maximum upwind performance over the ability to beach the boat.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Allures 45.9 frequently appears in the "Grand Large Yachting World Odyssey," a circumnavigation rally organized by Jimmy Cornell and the Grand Large group. While no single 45.9 has reached the same individual level of fame as the Allures 44 Opale (known for its Northwest Passage transit), the 45.9 is a staple of high-latitude sailing vlogs and documentary-style sailing content. It is often cited in editorial roundups as a top contender for the "European Yacht of the Year" in the Luxury Cruiser category, a testament to its build quality.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a pre-owned Allures 45.9 requires a specific focus on the unique properties of aluminum and the complexities of a centerboard system.

1. Electrolysis and Galvanic Corrosion: The most critical check for any aluminum yacht is the integrity of the electrical system. Buyers should ensure the boat has an isolation transformer and that no "stray current" is leaking into the hull. Inspect the hull near the water line and the saildrive for signs of pitting.
2. Centerboard Assembly: The lifting mechanism, including the synthetic pennants and the pivot pin, is a wear item. A buyer should request a service history of the centerboard bushings and inspect the trunk for any debris that could jam the foil.
3. Composite-to-Aluminum Joint: The bond where the fiberglass deck meets the aluminum hull is secured with high-strength adhesives and mechanical fasteners. Check for any signs of "bleeding" or stress cracks along this joint, which could indicate movement or sealant failure.
4. Zincs and Anodes: Aluminum hulls require dedicated sacrificial anodes (usually zinc or aluminum-indium). If these are found to be completely depleted or improperly bonded, it may indicate a period of neglect regarding the boat's underwater protection.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Allures 45.9 benefit from a highly organized support network. The Allures Owners Association (AOA) serves as a primary hub for technical advice and owner rendezvous. Additionally, as part of the Grand Large Yachting group, owners have access to "Grand Large Services," a dedicated worldwide support network that provides technical assistance, spare parts, and refit services specifically tailored to the nuances of aluminum blue-water yachts.

The Verdict

The Allures 45.9 is a premier choice for sailors whose itineraries include both the shallow waters of the Bahamas and the demanding conditions of the Southern Ocean. It is a boat that prioritizes safety and longevity over sheer speed.

Pros:

• Shallow Draft: The ability to retract the board to 3.5 feet opens anchorages inaccessible to most 45-footers.
• Impact Resistance: The 5083 aluminum hull offers peace of mind when navigating areas with ice or floating debris.
• Resale Value: Due to the niche market and high build quality, Allures yachts tend to hold their value exceptionally well.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Requires vigilant monitoring of the electrical system and anodes to prevent corrosion.
• Weight: Heavier than comparable GRP cruisers, requiring more wind to reach hull speed.
• Price: The hybrid construction and high-grade aluminum make it significantly more expensive than mass-produced fiberglass yachts.