Wauquiez Centurion 45 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Centurion 45 is characterized by the signature Ed Dubois balance of power and predictable manners. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio typically in the high 18s to low 19s, the boat is categorized as a moderate-to-high performance cruiser. It is particularly noted for its upwind capability; the fine entry of the bow slices through chop without the "slamming" common in flatter, modern hull shapes. The lead keel—available in both deep and shallow draft versions—provides a high ballast ratio, resulting in a stiff vessel that carries its canvas well into the 20-knot wind range before requiring a first reef.

Handling is assisted by a large-diameter wheel that provides tactile feedback, allowing the helmsman to feel the boat’s groove easily. According to historical technical notes from the Wauquiez Heritage Archive, the model was designed to maintain a high average speed over long distances rather than just peak sprinting speeds. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well on a reach, thanks to a well-proportioned rudder that retains grip even when the hull is loaded under a press of sail. While it lacks the ultra-wide sterns of modern 21st-century designs, this narrower profile contributes to its superior sea-kindliness in following seas, preventing the rhythmic rolling often found in wider, flatter boats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Centurion 45 is a testament to the "Old World" cabinet-making skills that defined the Neuville-en-Ferrain shipyard. Clad primarily in rich Burmese teak or optional light oak, the joinery is often described as furniture-grade, with rounded edges and robust fiddles designed for safety at sea. The most common layout features a three-cabin, two-head configuration: a spacious owner’s suite forward with a private head and two symmetrical double cabins aft.

A notable variation in the Centurion 45 lineup is the arrangement of the galley and salon. While most units utilize a traditional L-shaped galley to starboard of the companionway, some custom variants were produced with a longitudinal galley to maximize floor space in the salon. The Centurion 45 shares a strong genetic link with its sibling, the Centurion 41s, which utilized many of the same design cues in a slightly shorter footprint, and the larger Centurion 48s, which offered a dedicated navigation station and a more expansive owner's suite. Ventilation is a highlight of this model, as Wauquiez integrated numerous opening Goiot ports and hatches, ensuring the interior remains comfortable in tropical climates.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Centurion 45 should prioritize a rigorous inspection of the following areas, common to high-end yachts of this vintage:

• Teak Deck Longevity: Most Centurion 45s were delivered with thick teak side decks. If original, these decks may be reaching the end of their service life. Buyers should check for thinning wood, failing bungs, and signs of moisture in the core, though Wauquiez typically used high-quality vacuum-bagging techniques that mitigate some delamination risks.
• Rod Rigging Fatigue: Many of these yachts were equipped with Navtec rod rigging for improved performance. Unlike wire rigging, rod rigging can suffer from hidden crystalline fatigue. If the standing rigging is more than 10-12 years old, a full professional NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) or total replacement is usually recommended.
• Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder is subject to significant loads. Inspectors should check for play in the rudder stock and the condition of the self-aligning bearings, which can become stiff over decades of use.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: While the Centurion 45 is built to an extremely high standard, any vessel of this age should be checked for "smile" cracks at the leading edge of the keel, which could indicate a history of grounding or the need to re-torque the keel bolts.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Centurion 45 benefit from a robust support network established by the Wauquiez family and long-term enthusiasts. The most prominent organization is Wauquiez Forever, a non-profit association that maintains technical archives and organizes international rendezvous. This group is an essential resource for sourcing replacement parts that may no longer be in production. Additionally, the Wauquiez Owners Info platform serves as a technical wiki for maintenance tips specific to the Dubois-era Centurions.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 45 remains a premier choice for the offshore sailor who values aesthetic elegance and structural integrity over the "condo-maran" volume of modern cruisers. It is a boat that rewards a skilled sailor with excellent feedback and high daily averages on passage.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and "furniture-grade" interior joinery.
• High-performance Ed Dubois hull that excels in upwind and heavy weather conditions.
• Timeless, low-profile coachroof design that avoids the dated look of early deck saloons.
• Strong resale value and a dedicated, active owners' community.

Cons:

• Maintenance costs can be high due to premium components (rod rigging, teak decks).
• Interior volume is less than modern 45-footers due to the narrower, sea-kindly beam.
• The deep draft (on many versions) can limit access to some shallow cruising grounds like the Bahamas.