Centurion 49 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Centurion 49 is characterized by the "balanced power" that became the hallmark of Ed Dubois’s naval architecture. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the moderate-heavy end of the performance spectrum, the boat offers a stable, sea-kindly motion that minimizes fatigue during long offshore passages. Unlike lighter, modern production boats that tend to skitter over the surface, the 49’s hull form is designed to slice through a head sea, maintaining momentum where lighter vessels might stall.

The sail plan is typically a high-aspect masthead sloop or cutter rig. The boat’s performance in light air is surprisingly nimble for its 31,000-pound displacement, thanks to a generous sail area-to-displacement ratio. However, it truly excels when the wind rises above 15 knots. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "on rails" when close-hauled, with the deep fin keel providing excellent lift and minimal leeway. The helm remains responsive even when powered up, though, like many Dubois designs of this vintage, it rewards early reefing to maintain an upright posture and optimal rudder grip.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Centurion 49 is a masterclass in traditional maritime joinery, featuring the rich, hand-rubbed teak or mahogany that defined the Neuville-en-Ferrain shipyard. The layout was primarily offered in a three-cabin configuration, which includes a magnificent owner’s suite aft with a centerline queen berth and private head. The forward section typically houses two guest cabins—often a V-berth and a lateral bunk cabin—sharing a second head.

A notable variation in the Centurion 49’s lineage is its close relationship with the Centurion 47. The 49 is effectively a refined and elongated evolution of the 47 hull, utilizing the extra length to incorporate a more integrated swim platform and expanded aft storage. Later in the production cycle, Wauquiez also introduced the Centurion 48S, which shared similar DNA but shifted toward a slightly different deck layout and interior styling. Inside the 49, the salon is characterized by a "U-shaped" seating area to port and a proper, forward-facing navigation station to starboard that would satisfy any professional offshore navigator. The galley is longitudinal, providing a secure workspace even when the boat is heeled on a port tack.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Centurion 49 with an eye for the maintenance requirements typical of high-end yachts from the early 1990s. While the hull is a robust solid laminate, several specific areas require technical scrutiny:

1. Teak Deck Longevity: Most Centurion 49s were delivered with extensive teak decks. Given the age of these vessels, many are reaching the end of their service life. Buyers should check for thinning wood, failing bungs, and signs of moisture ingress into the sub-deck if the screws have been compromised.
2. Internal Grid Bonding: Wauquiez utilized a heavy-duty internal fiberglass grid to distribute mast and keel loads. A thorough survey should include an inspection of the "tabbing" where the grid meets the hull, particularly around the mast step and keel floors, to ensure no delamination has occurred after decades of ocean sailing.
3. Rudder Bearings and Quadrant: The steering system on a boat of this displacement works hard. It is common to find play in the rudder bearings or corrosion on the aluminum steering quadrant. Replacing these is a standard "mid-life" refit item for the model.
4. Chainplate Inspection: Because the 49 is a powerful boat that generates significant rig tension, the stainless steel chainplates where they pass through the deck should be inspected for crevice corrosion or signs of leaking that could damage the bulkheads below.

Community & Resources

The Centurion 49 enjoys a dedicated following through the "Wauquiez Forever" association, a non-profit organization founded by the family of Henri Wauquiez to preserve the brand's heritage. This group, along with the "Wauquiez Owners Info" technical exchange, provides a vital repository for original blueprints, wiring diagrams, and owner-led modification guides. These resources are invaluable for current owners attempting to modernize the systems of a 49 while maintaining its original aesthetic integrity.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 49 remains one of the most respected bluewater cruisers of its era, offering a level of build quality that is increasingly rare in contemporary yacht construction. It is a vessel for the sailor who prioritizes safety, aesthetics, and "upwind legs" over the cavernous, apartment-like interiors of modern wide-beam cruisers.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior joinery and structural integrity that surpasses most modern mass-production standards.
• Dubois Pedigree: Excellent heavy-weather handling and a balanced hull that provides a comfortable ride.
• Timeless Aesthetics: A low-profile coachroof and classic lines that remain stylish decades after launch.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: High-quality materials like teak decks and extensive brightwork require significant upkeep or expensive replacement.
• Aft Cabin Heat: The engine room insulation, while robust, can lead to heat transfer into the aft owner's cabin during long periods of motoring.
• Limited Light: Compared to modern "Pilot Saloon" designs, the interior can feel dark due to the smaller, traditional portlights.