Centurion 45 S Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Centurion 45 S is widely regarded as a "sailor’s boat," characterized by its high ballast ratio and a powerful masthead sloop rig. With a draft of approximately 2.5 meters in its standard deep-keel configuration, the boat exhibits remarkable pointing ability and stiffness. According to editorial insights from Yachting Monthly, the hull’s narrow-entry bow and flat aft sections allow it to power through a chop without the slamming common in flatter-bottomed production boats.

At the helm, the 45 S provides significant tactile feedback thanks to its large-diameter wheel and cable steering system. The Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio sits in a moderate range that suggests a stable bluewater platform, yet the Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio is aggressive enough to keep the boat moving in light airs where heavier cruisers would rely on the engine. Owners often report that the boat feels "locked in" when reaching, a testament to the Berret-Racoupeau hull form that balances volume for interior comfort with the hydrodynamic efficiency required for fast passages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Wauquiez maintains a reputation for joinery that rivals high-end Scandinavian yards, and the 45 S is no exception. The interior is typically finished in rich Burmese teak or optional lighter woods, with a focus on "yacht-grade" detailing such as rounded fiddles and solid wood trim. The layout was primarily offered in two configurations: a three-cabin version with two heads, or a two-cabin "Owner" version which sacrificed the second aft cabin for a massive storage locker and a larger galley area.

The deck saloon features large, eye-shaped portlights that provide an abundance of natural light, a signature design element of this generation of Wauquiez. Headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6'4" in the main saloon. The galley is U-shaped and positioned to port, designed specifically for use at sea with deep sinks and secure bracing points. In the sibling 48 S model, these features are expanded with a dedicated navigation station that could serve as a remote office, whereas the 45 S keeps the layout more compact and focused on the social aspects of the saloon.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Centurion 45 S is built to a high standard, there are specific technical areas that prospective buyers should investigate:

• Balsa Core Integrity: Like many yachts of this era, the deck and hull above the waterline use a balsa core. Any poorly bedded aftermarket hardware (solar panels, extra cleats) can lead to moisture ingress. A moisture meter test around the chainplates and stanchion bases is essential.
• Rudder Bearings: The large, high-aspect spade rudder puts considerable load on the bearings. Owners on technical forums have noted that steering can become stiff if the original self-aligning bearings have not been serviced or replaced over a twenty-year lifespan.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the deep draft and the high leverage of the lead bulb, the keel bolts and the structural grid (the "matrix") should be inspected for any signs of "smile" cracks or movement, which may indicate a previous hard grounding.
• Teak Deck Wear: If the vessel is equipped with the optional teak decks, buyers should check the thickness of the wood and the condition of the caulking. Wauquiez used high-quality vacuum-bonded teak, but twenty years of UV exposure can lead to thinning and screw-head surfacing.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical knowledge is Wauquiez Forever, a non-profit association dedicated to preserving the history and technical documentation of Henri Wauquiez’s designs. This group maintains archives of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and plumbing schematics that are invaluable for refitting a 45 S.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 45 S is an exceptional choice for the experienced sailor who refuses to choose between a racing pedigree and luxury living. It is a "modern classic" that holds its value significantly better than mass-market French production yachts.

Pros:

• Superior build quality and interior joinery compared to standard production boats.
• Powerful sailing performance with excellent upwind capabilities.
• Timeless, elegant aesthetics that do not appear dated.
• Robust technical support through dedicated owner associations.

Cons:

• Deep draft may limit access to some shallow cruising grounds (e.g., the Bahamas or parts of the Chesapeake).
• Higher maintenance costs associated with premium materials like teak and complex rigging.
• Engine access can be tight compared to the larger Pilot Saloon models.