Avance 245 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Avance 245 are defined by Peter Norlin’s signature focus on balance and light-air efficiency. With a displacement of approximately 1,800 kg and a ballast ratio nearing 45%, the boat is remarkably stiff for a 24-footer, allowing it to carry its sail area longer than many contemporary cruisers of the same size. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well upwind, a trait attributed to the deep fin keel and the high-aspect ratio of the rig.

In terms of technical ratios, the sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio suggests a boat that is lively in light to moderate breezes, typical of Baltic designs intended for coastal archipelago sailing. Because the hull features a relatively narrow beam by modern standards, it exhibits a gentle motion in a seaway, avoiding the "pounding" often associated with flatter, wider modern hulls. However, like many IOR-influenced designs of the early 1970s, the 245 can become "squirrelly" or prone to broaching when pushed hard downwind under a large spinnaker in heavy gusts, requiring an attentive hand on the tiller.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel with a length overall of just under 7.5 meters, the interior of the Avance 245 is a testament to Finnish joinery and space efficiency. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth in the bow, followed by a small head (often a chemical toilet or a compact marine head) located between the bulkhead and the main salon. The salon consists of two longitudinal settees that double as sea berths, and a small, often removable, folding table.

The use of warm hardwoods, typically teak or mahogany, creates a cabin atmosphere that feels more substantial than that of a standard fiberglass production boat. While the headroom is limited—making it difficult for taller sailors to stand fully upright—it is considered generous for a 1/4 tonner of this vintage. A notable variation in the production run included different galley configurations; some hulls featured a simple slide-out stove arrangement, while others were equipped with a fixed two-burner spirit stove and a small sink. The storage is tucked neatly under the berths and behind the settee backs, optimized for weekend coastal hops rather than long-term voyaging.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Avance 245 should approach the vessel with an eye toward the typical aging processes of 1970s fiberglass construction.

1. Keel-to-Hull Joint: As with many Fin-keeled boats of this era, the "Norlin smile"—a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—should be inspected. While often cosmetic, it can indicate the need to retorque or replace keel bolts.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Avance used balsa or foam coring in the decks to save weight. Buyers should use a plastic hammer to "tap-test" the deck for dull thuds, which indicate delamination or water ingress around stanchion bases and chainplates.
3. Rudder Bushings: The spade rudder on the 245 can develop play over decades of use. Excessive "slop" in the tiller usually points to worn bushings that require replacement to restore precise handling.
4. Original Inboard Engines: Many 245s were fitted with small Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesel engines. Given their age, these units often face cooling passage blockages or exhaust elbow corrosion. Many owners have since converted to outboards on a transom bracket to reclaim interior space and reduce maintenance.

Community & Resources

The Avance 245 enjoys a dedicated following in Scandinavia, particularly in Finland and Sweden. Technical information and shared owner experiences are often preserved through regional sailing forums. While there is no longer a dedicated factory support system, the Finnish Avance Association and broader Peter Norlin design registries provide a wealth of anecdotal data on sail tuning and restoration projects.

The Verdict

The Avance 245 remains a premier choice for sailors seeking a "mini-classic" that offers a pedigree design and high-quality construction at an entry-level price point. It is a boat that rewards a sensitive touch and provides a sense of security that many modern, lighter daysailers lack.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built to endure the demanding conditions of the Baltic Sea.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Peter Norlin’s lines remain elegant and timeless.
• Stiff and Weatherly: High ballast ratio ensures excellent upwind performance.

Cons:

• Limited Headroom: The cabin is cramped for extended stays with more than two adults.
• Aged Systems: Original electrical wiring and plumbing will likely require a full overhaul.
• IOR Quirks: Can be temperamental when sailing deep downwind in heavy air.