Wauquiez Centurion 45S Information, Review, Specs

While the 45S is a standalone hull, it is part of a cohesive "S" family that includes the Centurion 40S and the larger Centurion 48S. These siblings share the same design DNA: low-profile coachroofs, plumb bows, and powerful aft sections. Unlike many contemporary mass-production boats that utilize a single hull for both "Cruiser" and "Deck Saloon" variants, the 45S was a dedicated performance platform, though its hull characteristics heavily influenced the subsequent Pilot Saloon 47 in terms of stability and volume distribution.

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Centurion 45S is defined by a high-aspect-ratio rig and a sophisticated underwater profile. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio hovering around 22, the boat is remarkably powered for a vessel with a light-ship displacement of approximately 25,000 lbs. This ratio suggests a boat that transitions into its hull speed quickly, even in light airs, yet remains stiff enough to carry full sail when others are reefing. The standard lead keel—often found in a deep-draft 2.5m (8’2”) configuration—provides a high ballast ratio that translates into exceptional pointing ability.

At the helm, the 45S is frequently described as "surgical." The large-diameter wheel provides significant leverage over the deep spade rudder, allowing for precise tracking in a seaway. Editorial testing by Yachting World noted that the Berret-Racoupeau hull manages the transition to planing speeds gracefully when pressed off the wind, though it remains primarily a displacement-optimized thoroughbred. The boat’s sea-kindliness is a result of its relatively narrow beam compared to modern "fat-bottomed" cruisers, allowing it to slice through a head-sea without the slamming associated with flatter, wider hulls. Owners often report that the boat feels "locked in" when close-hauled, requiring minimal autopilot correction.

Interior Comfort & Variations

True to the Wauquiez heritage, the interior of the 45S is a masterclass in joinery, predominantly finished in rich Burmese teak or optional lighter cherry woods. The layout was typically offered in two primary configurations: a three-cabin, two-head layout or a more spacious two-cabin "Owner" version. In the three-cabin variant, the forward master suite features a centerline island berth and a private en-suite head, while the two aft cabins provide ample storage and standing headroom for guests.

The salon is characterized by a "U-shaped" settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, flanking a large dining table. A notable design element is the dedicated, forward-facing navigation station, which is sized for full Admiralty charts—a nod to its offshore intentions. The galley is longitudinal and located to starboard, providing excellent bracing points for the cook while underway. Variations in the interior often center on the wood finish and the upholstery, but the structural integrity remains constant, utilizing a stainless steel grid system to distribute mast and keel loads, which is visible in the bilge areas.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Centurion 45S gained significant international recognition shortly after its debut, largely due to its sweep of industry awards. Beyond its "Boat of the Year" win in the United States, it was a frequent subject of performance comparisons in European journals like Yachting Monthly and Die Yacht, where it was often used as the "gold standard" against which other performance cruisers were measured. While not a "YouTube boat" in the modern sense of influencers, it remains a frequent star in high-end brokerage highlights and offshore racing archives, such as the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC), where various 45S hulls have consistently placed well in the cruising divisions.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Centurion 45S with a focus on its high-end systems and specialized construction. While the build quality is superior to mass-market yachts, several age-related areas require scrutiny:

• Teak Deck Integration: Most 45S models were delivered with vacuum-bagged teak decks. While this process minimizes fasteners, the decks are now reaching an age where the thickness of the wood may be marginal, and the caulking may require professional refreshing.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: The boat is typically powered by a Volvo Penta D2-55 or D2-75. The Saildrive diaphragm has a manufacturer-recommended replacement interval (often 7 years) that is frequently ignored; this should be a primary inspection point.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Due to the high loads generated by the deep spade rudder and the boat's high performance, the self-aligning rudder bearings can develop play. Check for "knocking" at the helm when the boat is out of the water.
• Stainless Steel Grid Inspection: The 45S utilizes a stainless steel internal structure to handle rig tension. While robust, any signs of rust or weeping at the junction where the grid meets the GRP hull should be investigated for potential hard-grounding history.
• Rigging Fatigue: Given its powerful sail plan, the standing rigging on a 45S is under higher-than-average tension. If the rod rigging is original, it is well past its service life and necessitates immediate replacement.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support and owner camaraderie is the Wauquiez Owners Association, which provides historical documentation and access to a network of owners who share maintenance tips specific to the Centurion and Pilot Saloon lines. For technical drawings and historical specifications, the Wauquiez yard maintains an archive for their legacy models, often accessible through their official "Heritage" outreach.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 45S is a "sailor’s sailboat" that refuses to compromise between luxury and velocity. It remains one of the most aesthetically balanced designs from the Berret-Racoupeau office, offering a timeless profile that avoids the ungainly proportions of modern high-volume cruisers.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior resin work and interior joinery that surpasses contemporary production standards.
• Performance: A legitimate offshore racer-cruiser that excels in light air and heavy weather alike.
• Aesthetics: Low-profile deck lines and a classic "shaved" coachroof offer a high-end, custom-yacht appearance.

Cons:

• Draft Limitations: The deep 2.5m keel limits access to some shallow cruising grounds, such as the Bahamas or parts of the Chesapeake.
• Maintenance Costs: As a high-performance vessel with complex systems and significant teak, annual maintenance budgets will be higher than for a simpler cruiser.
• Ergonomics: The low-profile design results in a slightly deeper companionway and steeper stairs compared to modern "open-concept" yachts.