Outremer 45 Information, Review, Specs

This model is a centerpiece of the Outremer philosophy, prioritizing speed and safety as the primary forms of "comfort" at sea. By keeping the hulls narrow and the center of gravity low, the 45 achieves a level of seakindliness that reduces pitching and slamming in heavy weather. It is often cited as the definitive choice for couples or small families intending to circumnavigate, offering a blend of manageable scale and transoceanic capability.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Outremer 45 is widely regarded for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio, featuring a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 25, which places it firmly in the performance cruising category. On the water, this translates to a boat that can frequently achieve 80% to 90% of the true wind speed. According to testing by Sail Magazine, the boat is remarkably responsive, thanks in part to the Jefa steering system and the option for twin carbon-fiber tillers. These tillers allow the helmsman to sit on the outboard "bucket seats," providing a visceral connection to the rudders that is rarely found in cruising catamarans.

The inclusion of deep daggerboards is a critical handling feature, allowing the boat to point as high as 30 to 35 degrees apparent while significantly reducing leeway compared to fixed-keel competitors. With the boards up, the draft is reduced to just 1.0 meter (3.3 ft), permitting access to shallow anchorages. Handling is optimized for short-handed sailing; the self-tacking solent and the concentration of all control lines at the single raised helm station mean a solo watch-stander can reef or trim without leaving the cockpit’s protection.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the Outremer 45 sacrifices raw volume for speed, the interior—designed by Franck Darnet—is a masterclass in ergonomic efficiency. The "360-degree vision" concept ensures the bridge deck remains bright and connected to the horizon. The standard layout is the "Owner" version, which devotes the entire port hull to a master suite featuring a large longitudinal berth, a dedicated desk, and an expansive head. The starboard hull typically houses two guest cabins. A four-cabin "Club" version was also produced to accommodate larger families or occasional charter use.

A notable sibling to this model is the Outremer 4X, which is built on the same hull mold but utilizes significantly more carbon fiber in the construction and features a slightly lengthened transom. The 4X is approximately 600kg lighter and features a taller rotating mast, catering to owners who prioritize racing-level performance. Inside, both models utilize lightweight foam-core cabinetry with wood veneers to prevent weight creep, which is the "silent killer" of multihull performance. Detailed interior specs can be found in the Darnet Design portfolio.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Outremer 45 achieved global fame through the YouTube channel Sailing La Vagabonde, where Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu documented their transition from a monohull to an Outremer 45 named "La Vagabonde II." Their voyages across the Atlantic and Pacific highlighted the boat's ability to maintain high average speeds while serving as a comfortable full-time home. Additionally, legendary voyager Jimmy Cornell chose a specially modified electric version, the Outremer 45E, for his "ELCANO" challenge, further cementing the model's reputation as a pioneer in sustainable blue water cruising.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Outremer 45 should focus on the following technical areas:

• Weight Management: Because performance is highly dependent on light displacement, many used boats have been "slowed down" by the addition of heavy aftermarket generators, air conditioning units, and excessive ground tackle. A thorough audit of the current displacement versus the factory's 8.7-ton lightship weight is essential.
• Daggerboard Trunks: Inspect the trunks for signs of stress or "fuzzing" in the laminate. While the boards are designed to act as "fuses" and break before the hull does, a significant impact can still damage the internal trunk structure.
• Bimini and Helm Exposure: The standard helm position is somewhat exposed to the elements. Many owners have added aftermarket soft dodgers or "ears" to the hardtop bimini; buyers should check the quality of these modifications to ensure they don't compromise visibility or create windage issues.
• Saildrive Diaphragms: The twin Volvo D1-30 engines are reliable, but the saildrive seals require periodic replacement. Check for any salt crystallization or moisture in the engine compartments, which are accessed via the transoms.

Community & Resources

The Outremer Cup is a prominent annual gathering in La Grande Motte where owners meet for training and racing, reflecting the builder's commitment to creating an "Outremer Family." Technical support is often channeled through the factory’s dedicated after-sales department, which has a reputation for supporting vessels even in remote locations like Tahiti or the Caribbean.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Market-Leading Speed: Capable of 200+ mile days with ease and safety.
• High Resale Value: Outremers consistently command premium prices on the brokerage market due to limited production and high demand.
• Build Quality: Integration of carbon fiber and high-grade vinylester ensures a stiff, durable hull.
• True Sailing Sensation: The optional tillers provide an "active" sailing experience unmatched by most catamarans.

Cons:

• Living Volume: Interior space is significantly less than that of a Lagoon or Leopard of similar length.
• Sensitivity to Payload: Performance drops off sharply if the boat is overloaded with cruising gear.
• Premium Pricing: Both the base price and the extensive options list are significantly higher than mass-production competitors.