Design and Construction
The 45CC follows the modern Hunter construction approach refined under the Marlow banner. A solid fiberglass laminate below the waterline is paired with balsa-cored topsides and Kevlar reinforcements throughout, a combination meant to shed weight where it matters least while keeping the hull honest in a seaway.
Hunter has used modular interior construction extensively across its range. In the 45CC, the furniture is aligned and bonded into the hull to create a true unibody structure; the interior is structural rather than merely fitted in place. The result is a stiff shell. The low-slung coach roof admired by the Canadian testers also contributes to protected sightlines and keeps the center of gravity lower than a tall trunk would.
Rig and Handling
The 45CC carries a Seldén fractional rig with double spreaders and a no-backstay configuration that continually impressed testers. The absence of a running backstay simplifies short-handed sail handling.
An integrated arch carries the traveler and keeps the boom clear of crew movement aft, while a rigid boom vang comes standard. The large mainsail rolls into the mast with ease, and the 110% jib sets on a Furlex roller furler. Inboard sheet tracks create a tight sheeting angle for sailing close to the wind.
Every control leads aft, allowing the helm to manage sail power without leaving the cockpit. Testers were clear, however, that the optional halyard winch is essential for comfortable single-watch operation.
Cockpit and Deck
The cockpit is arranged for practical cruising. A fold-away steering wheel opens up the companionway when stowed, while a large fold-out table turns the cockpit into an outdoor saloon. Two coaming lockers keep lines and gear close at hand, and an integrated pedestal grab rail provides security underway.
Flexi-Teek covers both the cockpit seats and swim platform. The platform also carries a ladder and shower. Double lifelines have three gates—one on each side and one aft—making it straightforward to move forward or step over the transom.
Accommodations
The 14'6" beam supports a roomy, carefully arranged interior. Slightly curved companionway steps lead below to a centerline, U-shaped galley to starboard. It includes a double sink, a two-burner gimbaled stove, and a side-by-side refrigerator and freezer.
In the saloon, a large table seats six, with an opposing settee suited to quiet reading. A fitted, pivoting navigator’s chair faces Raytheon electronics at the navigation station. Headroom through the main cabin is a generous 6'9".
The aft master stateroom has seven opening ports for cross-ventilation, Corian-topped night tables, two cedar-lined lockers, and a private head. Forward, the double V-berth has storage beneath it, along with a hanging locker to starboard. The port-side head includes a shower and vanity.
Engine and Systems
Auxiliary power comes from a 75 HP Yanmar. The boat carries 75 gallons of fuel, 149 gallons of water, and a 48-gallon holding tank, along with an 11-gallon water heater. The engine’s output is generous for a boat of this displacement and supports both propulsion and a credible hotel load at anchor.
The Verdict
The Marlow-Hunter 45CC is a thoroughly modern cruising boat. Its bonded modular interior and Kevlar-reinforced, balsa-cored construction provide structural integrity beneath a deck and interior designed around comfort. The cruising intent is evident in the lines led aft, fold-away fittings, substantial tankage, and cedar-lined lockers.
Pros
- Bonded unibody interior provides genuine structural stiffness
- No-backstay fractional rig and controls led aft simplify short-handed sailing
- Center-cockpit layout, 6'9" headroom, and an aft stateroom with seven opening ports
- Generous 149-gallon water and 75-gallon fuel capacities for extended autonomy
Cons
- In-mast furling and the arch rig favor convenience over adjustable sail shape
- The 5'0" shoal draft trades some windward bite for accessibility
