Crowther Spindrift 45 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Spindrift 45 is a high-performance catamaran that typically utilizes daggerboards to achieve windward performance that modern fixed-keel cruisers cannot match. With a relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio, the boat is capable of maintaining high average speeds, often reaching double digits in moderate breezes. According to historical design notes from Crowther Design, the hull shape features a fine entry to reduce drag and a flared topside to provide reserve buoyancy in heavy seas.

In terms of handling, the Spindrift 45 is known for its "sea-kindliness," a result of its high bridge-deck clearance which significantly reduces the slamming (or "pounding") often associated with older multihull designs. On the helm, the boat is responsive, though its light displacement means it can be sensitive to weight distribution. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well off the wind, provided the sail plan is balanced. Because many Spindrift 45s were built using various materials—ranging from strip-planked Western Red Cedar to advanced foam-core composites—the specific "feel" of the boat can vary, with the composite versions being notably stiffer and more accelerated in gusts.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Spindrift 45 is typically organized around a central bridge-deck saloon that offers panoramic views and a seamless transition to the cockpit. However, because these vessels were often built as high-end kits or custom projects, interior configurations vary wildly. The standard layout generally features the galley and navigation station in the hulls or on the bridge deck, with three to four cabins located in the extremities of the hulls.

Headroom is generally excellent in the hulls, though it may be slightly more restricted in the bridge-deck saloon compared to contemporary production catamarans. The use of lightweight materials for cabinetry was a hallmark of Crowther’s focus on performance; many interiors utilize balsa-cored panels or thin veneers to keep the "all-up" weight within the design specifications. The Spindrift 45’s siblings include the smaller Spindrift 37 and 40, as well as the larger Spindrift 47. The 45 is often considered the "sweet spot" of the range, offering enough waterline length for serious blue-water comfort without the excessive docking fees or handling complexities of the larger variants.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Crowther Spindrift 45 must prioritize a structural survey due to the varied nature of their construction.

• Core Integrity: Many Spindrift 45s were built using foam or balsa-core sandwiches. A moisture meter and "tap test" are essential to check for delamination or water ingress, particularly around deck fittings and the daggerboard trunks.
• Bridge-Deck Structure: Inspect the main crossbeams and the bridge-deck-to-hull joints for signs of stress cracking or movement. While Crowther designs are structurally robust, decades of hard offshore racing or cruising can take a toll on the bonding.
• Daggerboard Trunks: Check for leaks or impact damage at the base of the daggerboard trunks. It is also common for the boards themselves to require refinishing or shim replacement to prevent rattling while underway.
• Weight Sensitivity: Because this is a performance design, excess weight is the enemy. Buyers should look for boats that have not been overloaded with heavy aftermarket equipment (like massive battery banks or oversized tenders) which can sit the sterns too low in the water and degrade performance.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the age of many Spindrifts, the standing rigging and chainplate attachments should be scrutinized, especially on boats that have spent significant time in the tropics.

Community & Resources

The legacy of Lock Crowther is maintained by a dedicated community of multihull enthusiasts. The Multihull Yacht Club of Australia (MYCA) and various regional multihull associations often serve as repositories for technical knowledge regarding Crowther designs. While there is no longer a formal manufacturer support office, the Crowther design archives are often cited in technical discussions on platforms like the Multihull Boatbuilders and Owners group.

The Verdict

The Crowther Spindrift 45 is an "honest" sailor’s catamaran that prioritizes speed and safety over absolute interior volume. It remains a top choice for experienced multihull sailors looking for a blue-water capable vessel with pedigree.

Pros:

• Exceptional passage-making speeds and windward performance.
• Timeless, sleek aesthetic that avoids the "boxy" look of modern catamarans.
• High bridge-deck clearance minimizes slamming in heavy weather.
• Strong secondary market value for well-maintained composite examples.

Cons:

• Interiors lack the massive "living room" volume found in newer French production cats.
• Daggerboard maintenance adds a layer of complexity for the owner.
• Highly sensitive to overloading; requires disciplined weight management.
• Construction quality varies significantly between different builders and kit-finishers.