Centurion 59 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Centurion 59 is a powerful, stiff vessel designed to maintain high average speeds in offshore conditions. With a hull form characterized by a relatively deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, the boat tracks with remarkable precision. According to design notes from the Dubois Naval Architects archive, the hull was optimized for "ocean sprinting," focusing on a high righting moment and a long waterline length to reduce drag.

In terms of technical ratios, the yacht typically carries a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio that places it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category, providing the momentum needed to punch through head seas without the hobby-horsing often found in lighter production boats. However, its generous Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio ensures that it does not feel sluggish in light air. Owners often report that the yacht truly comes alive in 15 to 20 knots of breeze, where it can easily maintain 9 to 10 knots on a reach. The deck layout is optimized for a powerful crew or sophisticated hydraulic assistance, as the primary winches and sail loads are substantial.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Centurion 59 is a masterclass in traditional French cabinetry, featuring the signature Wauquiez honey-colored teak or mahogany finishes. The standard configuration typically includes a massive master stateroom aft with a centerline queen berth and a private en-suite head. Forward of the main salon, most models were fitted with two guest cabins, though some custom "owner-version" layouts exist with a single VIP guest suite forward.

A notable sibling model is the Centurion 61, which utilized a similar hull platform but offered extended aft sections and minor rigging modifications. The 59 was also often compared to its smaller contemporary, the Centurion 48s, which shared the same Dubois-designed aesthetic and performance-oriented hull shape. In the salon, the 59 provides nearly seven feet of headroom, with a large U-shaped galley that is frequently cited as one of the most sea-kindly designs in its class, offering excellent bracing points for cooking while underway.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Centurion 59 has maintained a low-profile but prestigious reputation within the "blue water" community. It is frequently highlighted in technical discussions by the Wauquiez Owners Association and has been featured in retrospective reviews in European journals like Yachting World and Voiles et Voiliers, where it is praised for its longevity. While not a "YouTube boat" in the modern sense, the 59 is a frequent sight in prestigious rallies like the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where its performance and reliability are well-documented among long-distance sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Centurion 59 should focus on three primary areas during a pre-purchase survey:

1. Teak Deck Integrity: Like many yachts of this era, the 59 featured thick, screw-fastened teak decks. After 30 years, the bungs and caulking often fail, leading to potential core saturation. Replacing the deck on a vessel of this size is a significant financial undertaking.
2. Hydraulic Systems: Given the high sail loads, many Centurion 59s were equipped with complex Navtec hydraulic systems for the backstay, vang, and sometimes winches or furling. These systems require specialized service and can develop leaks in the manifolds or rams.
3. Keel Attachment: While the boat is built to an exceptionally high standard, the deep fin keel exerts massive leverage on the hull grid. Surveys should include a rigorous inspection of the "Wauquiez grid" and the stainless steel keel bolts for signs of movement or stress cracking.
4. Rudder Bearings: Due to the large spade rudder, the bearings are subject to high loads. If the steering feels heavy or "notchy," it may indicate that the bearings are worn or that the rudder stock has suffered from galvanic corrosion.

Community & Resources

The most significant technical resource for this model is the "Wauquiez Forever" association, a non-profit dedicated to the preservation of Henri Wauquiez’s legacy. This group provides a repository of technical manuals and historical build data that is invaluable for restoring or maintaining a Centurion 59. Owners also frequently congregate on the international Wauquiez Owners Facebook groups to share refit advice and source obsolete hardware.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 59 is a "sailor’s yacht" that refuses to compromise on performance for the sake of interior volume. It remains a top-tier choice for experienced mariners who prioritize sea-kindliness and structural integrity over modern "condo-maran" aesthetics.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Built during an era when Wauquiez used over-engineered laminates and world-class joinery.
• Timeless Design: The Ed Dubois lines remain elegant and command respect in any marina.
• True Bluewater Capability: Designed to handle gale-force conditions with composure and speed.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensity: Complex systems and extensive teak require a dedicated maintenance budget.
• Deep Draft: The performance-oriented keel limits access to shallower cruising grounds like the Bahamas.
• Hefty Handling: Not a boat for an inexperienced short-handed crew without significant power-assist upgrades.