
BOWMAN 45
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 45.21 ft |
| LWL | 36.55 ft |
| Beam | 12.99 ft |
| Draft | 5.74 ft |
| Displacement | 24,499.97 lb |
| Ballast | 9,261 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.1 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Mainsail | 425 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 131 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 1,679 sq ft |
About the BOWMAN 45
First built year is circa. Sail area: -Main: 425 ft² / 39.5 m² -Storm jib: 131 ft² / 12.2 m² -Yankee: 500 ft² / 46.5 m² -Staysail: 171 ft² / 15.9 m² -#2 Genoa: 594 ft² / 55.2 m² -#1 Genoa: 687 ft² / 63.8 m² -Spinnaker: 1,679 ft² / 156 m²
The Bowman 45 is a heavy-displacement cruising yacht designed by C. W. (Chuck) Paine and built by Bowman Yachts (UK) in 1985. With a displacement of 24499.97 lb and a comfort ratio of 31.8, this single-year production model offers a stable, motion-dampened platform typical of Paine's offshore designs.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for serious bluewater cruisers and coastal adventurers who prioritize seakeeping and comfort over high-speed performance. Its cutter rig and substantial ballast of 9261.0 lb make it well-regarded for single-handing and extended offshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.79 and a D/L ratio of 224.0, the Bowman 45 exhibits strong inherent stability and resistance to capsizing, making it highly suitable for offshore cruising. Its fin keel and substantial displacement provide excellent tracking and safety margins in heavy seas.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 43 and the O'Day 42, as they share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and offshore-oriented hull forms from the mid-1980s. Like the Bowman, these boats are valued for their robust construction and ability to handle heavy weather, though the Bowman's specific Paine design offers a distinct motion profile.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 45.21ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
9 reported issues across 6 systems for the BOWMAN 45, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a BOWMAN 45? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 9 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your BOWMAN 45?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the BOWMAN 45
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…