Design and Construction
The J/46 presents a sleek, streamlined hull with minimal overhangs and a low cabinhouse, paired with a high length-to-beam ratio that gives the 46-footer a lithe, purposeful profile. Ample reserve buoyancy forward, and a greater balance of reserve buoyancy at both ends of the boat, helps the bow lift up and over ocean chop and large waves rather than punching through them. New keel and rudder configurations contribute to its speed and ease of handling, with a modern lead bulb keel and spade rudder defining the underbody.
Structurally, the boat is built by TPI Technologies using the company's patented SCRIMP method, a process that uses infusion-molded sandwich construction for the hull and deck. This approach makes a light yet strong boat since the laminate has a much higher fiber content with less resin than in conventional layups, and the builder claimed SCRIMP laminates test out at double the strength of conventional hand-laid construction techniques. The solid fiberglass hull and deck carry 9,400 pounds of lead ballast against a 24,000-pound displacement, a 39-percent ballast ratio that underpins the boat's remarkable stability.
Rig and Handling
A design goal was plenty of sail power with a low center of effort to maintain good performance in rough seas, and the carbon fiber mast — half the weight of an aluminum spar — provided part of the solution. With a 110-percent genoa and full main, even a small crew can sail this boat hard in strong winds, and if the wind pipes up over 20 knots you simply roll up the jib and sail under full main, finally reefing in 30 knots. The basic configuration of main and 100-percent genoa allows for astonishingly easy handling and safe passages under a wide range of open water conditions.
On the water, sailing magazine's test sailors found the 46 would sail well under either jib or main alone, and in a moderate sea it showed no signs of hobbyhorsing. Steering is remarkable, with only a full turn lock-to-lock. The large, T-shaped cockpit separates the helmsman from the crew, with the main traveler and its controls immediately forward of the helm and all halyards and sail controls led aft so the main can be raised and lowered from the cockpit. Two Lewmar 46s control the double-ended mainsheet, and sheet winches sit close to hand on the contoured seats.
Accommodations
Below, the J/46 is laid out as a practical cruiser. A U-shaped galley to port places the cook securely in a seaway, with a Force 10 three-burner stove with oven, deep double sinks, and a large icebox (refrigeration optional). Opposite lies a navigation station with a forward-facing seat, large chart table with hinged top, and electrical panel behind the navigator's head. A U-shaped dinette with table seats at least six for dinner, with a pilot berth outboard.
Forward, the huge V-berth cabin has a central insert, outboard shelves and lockers, a large overhead hatch, and a larger head with separate shower compartment to port. A small aft cabin under the starboard side deck offers a double berth, drawers, and hanging locker but is hardly large enough for prolonged occupation. The saloon is airy with three opening ports and good hatch ventilation; the test boat wore cherry joinery, though teak is another option. Both heads use easily cleaned white plastic surfaces.
Known Issues
The deck is one of the least cluttered the tester encountered, with good nonskid and well-placed stainless grabrails, but two practical drawbacks surfaced. You have to reach through the spokes of the partially recessed 60-inch wheel for the engine throttle, an awkward gesture in close quarters. And the starboard aft cabin, while useful for storage or short-term guests, is too small for anyone to live in comfortably for an extended passage.
The Verdict
The J/46 is a thoughtfully executed performance cruiser that honors its J/44 lineage while pushing the envelope of what a 46-foot offshore boat can do under a small crew. Its infusion-molded structure, balanced buoyancy, and low-center-of-effort rig deliver the blazing performance, exceptional comfort at sea, and ability to make long passages in comfort that the design brief demanded.
Pros
- Infusion-molded SCRIMP hull and deck for light, strong construction
- Balanced reserve buoyancy and lead bulb keel for seaworthy, non-hobbyhorsing motion
- Carbon mast and cockpit-led controls enable short-handed passagemaking
- Airy, secure U-shaped galley and genuine six-person dinette
Cons
- Engine throttle reached through wheel spokes is awkward
- Starboard aft cabin too cramped for prolonged use
- Only one factory anchor roller supplied
