Kaufman 46 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Kaufman 46 is widely regarded as a "sailor’s boat," characterized by a hull form that prioritizes speed and stiffness. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio approaching an impressive 50%—and in some configurations exceeding 55%—the boat is exceptionally stiff, allowing it to carry full sail long after its contemporaries have reefed. It typically features a deep fin keel and a spade or partial-skeg rudder, a combination that provides excellent maneuverability and allows the boat to point high into the wind.

The technical specifications of the hull reflect a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio that sits in the moderate-to-light category for an offshore cruiser of its age, while its Sail Area-to-Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21 ensures it remains lively in light air. On the water, owners report a "thoroughbred" feel, with a balanced helm that tracks predictably even in heavy weather. However, the deep draft—often exceeding 8 feet—can be a significant constraint for those cruising the Bahamas or the U.S. East Coast’s Intracoastal Waterway.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Built during the golden era of Taiwanese boatbuilding, the interior of the Kaufman 46 is typically finished in hand-rubbed teak, providing a warm, traditional aesthetic. The model was produced in both aft-cockpit and center-cockpit configurations, though the aft-cockpit version is more common and sought after for its sleeker appearance.

The standard layout usually includes three private cabins and two heads. The master stateroom is often located in the bow or the stern depending on the cockpit choice, with the main salon featuring a large U-shaped dinette and a dedicated navigation station that reflects the boat's long-range cruising intent. The Kaufman 47 is the most direct sibling, essentially the same hull but often featuring a "sugar scoop" transom for easier water access. Other siblings include the Kaufman 43, a slightly more compact version of the same design philosophy, and the larger Kaufman 49, which utilized a reverse transom to extend the waterline.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Kaufman 47, a direct evolution of the 46, gained significant prominence through the world-renowned voyager and author John Kretschmer, who chose a Kaufman 47 (Quetzal) for his professional offshore passage-making business. Kretschmer has frequently written about the model's exceptional sea-kindliness and robust construction in various editorial features, cementing its reputation as a premier choice for serious circumnavigators.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas during survey:

• Teak Decks: Most Kaufman 46s were built with teak-over-fiberglass decks. As these vessels age, the thousands of screws used to secure the teak can become paths for water intrusion into the balsa or foam core. Inspect for soft spots and "bouncing" on deck.
• Rudder & Bearings: The spade rudder design provides great performance but lacks the protection of a full skeg. Check the rudder post for play and ensure the internal structure shows no signs of delamination or moisture.
• Standing Rigging: Many of these boats were rigged for serious offshore work. Given the age, the mast step and chainplates—often glassed-in or hidden behind cabinetry—should be carefully inspected for corrosion.
• Original Fuel Tanks: Like many Taiwanese builds of the era, the original black iron or stainless fuel tanks can develop pinhole leaks due to exterior corrosion. Replacing these can be an invasive and expensive "engine-out" job.

Community & Resources

While there is no formal manufacturer support today, owners often congregate on broad cruising platforms such as the Kaufman Owners groups on social media and technical forums like SailNet, where Mike Kaufman himself has occasionally provided design insights. Information regarding original plans can sometimes be sourced through Mike Kaufman’s independent naval architecture firm.

The Verdict

The Kaufman 46 remains a standout for cruisers who refuse to sacrifice sailing performance for interior volume. It is a robust, elegant, and fast offshore machine that rewards an active hand at the helm.

Pros:

• Exceptional stiffness and upwind performance.
• High-quality Taiwanese teak joinery.
• Timeless, "Swan-like" aesthetic.
• Proven circumnavigator with a strong pedigree.

Cons:

• Deep draft limits access to shallow-water cruising grounds.
• High maintenance requirements for aging teak decks.
• Narrower beam compared to modern "wide-transom" cruisers, resulting in less interior volume.