Wauquiez Centurion 47.7 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Centurion 47.7 is a stiff, powerful yacht designed to excel in offshore conditions. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the performance-cruiser category, the hull utilizes a deep bulb keel (typically drawing 2.60 meters) and a high-aspect-ratio spade rudder to provide exceptional grip and tracking. This configuration allows the boat to point high into the wind, often outperforming modern wide-transom cruisers that struggle with leeway in heavy air. According to design notes from Wauquiez Heritage, the hull was engineered for stiffness, utilizing a robust internal grid system to handle the high rig loads of its triple-spreader mast.

Under sail, the 47.7 feels balanced and responsive. Its sail-area-to-displacement ratio is generous enough to keep the boat moving in light Mediterranean zephyrs, yet the hull form remains stable when the wind exceeds 20 knots. Anecdotal reports from owners via the Wauquiez technical community suggest that the boat hits its stride on a close reach, where it can consistently maintain speeds in excess of 8.5 knots. The cockpit is logically laid out for short-handed sailing, featuring large primary winches positioned within reach of the helm, though the massive mainsail often requires the assistance of an electric winch for effortless trimming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Centurion 47.7 is where the brand’s "Rolls Royce" reputation is most evident. Unlike modern production boats that rely heavily on modular liners and veneers, the 47.7 features extensive solid teak joinery and a level of fit-and-finish rarely seen in contemporary builds. The standard layout features a magnificent owner’s cabin forward with a centerline island berth and an en-suite head. Two large guest cabins are situated aft, providing comfortable accommodations for six adults.

The salon is designed for both entertaining and safety at sea, featuring numerous handrails and a large U-shaped settee to port. A significant highlight is the dedicated navigation station, which is large enough to serve as a proper offshore office. Variations of the 47.7 include a four-cabin layout, which was popular in high-end charter fleets, though the three-cabin "owner’s version" remains the most desirable on the secondary market. Its sibling, the Centurion 40s, shares much of the same interior aesthetic and construction DNA, though the 47.7 offers significantly more volume in the galley and aft heads.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Wauquiez Centurion 47.7 is a high-quality build, prospective buyers should focus on several specific areas during a survey:

• Teak Deck Integrity: Many 47.7 models were delivered with screw-down teak decks. Over time, the plugs can wear thin and the caulking can fail, potentially allowing moisture to reach the balsa or foam core. A moisture meter test is essential for any original deck.
• Grid and Hull Attachment: Because these boats are often driven hard in racing or heavy offshore conditions, the structural grid (the "spider" that supports the keel and mast step) should be inspected for any signs of movement, hairline cracking, or delamination from the hull.
• Rudder Bearings: The high-aspect spade rudder puts significant stress on its bearings. Any "slop" or play in the steering system usually indicates that the self-aligning bearings are due for replacement.
• Standing Rigging: Given the age of the fleet, many 47.7s are reaching the end of their second rigging cycle. The rod rigging often used on these performance rigs requires specialized ultrasonic testing or preventative replacement every 10–12 years.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Centurion 47.7 are supported by a dedicated international community. The Wauquiez Owners Association provides a platform for technical exchange and historical documentation. Additionally, the French-based "Club Wauquiez" remains the primary hub for technical drawings and parts sourcing for the Centurion and Amphitrite lines.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 47.7 is an uncompromising yacht for the sailor who appreciates classic aesthetics and high-end French craftsmanship but demands modern performance.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Superior woodwork and fiberglass layup compared to standard production yachts.
• High Performance: Capable of high speeds and excellent windward performance in offshore conditions.
• Timeless Design: The sleek, low-profile lines remain attractive decades after the initial launch.

Cons:

• Maintenance Costs: The high-end systems and teak decks require a higher maintenance budget.
• Deep Draft: The performance-oriented keel may limit access to shallower cruising grounds like the Bahamas.
• Weight: It is a heavy yacht that requires significant sail area to perform, making sail handling physically demanding if not equipped with power winches.