DOWNEASTER 45
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 45 ft |
| LWL | 35.75 ft |
| Beam | 14 ft |
| Draft | 5.92 ft |
| Displacement | 39,000 lb |
| Ballast | 12,000.3 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.0 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 53.75 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 21.5 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 46 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 17 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 32 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 11 ft |
| FLforestay | 21.5 ft |
| Mainsail | 1,000.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 577.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 982.3 sq ft |
About the DOWNEASTER 45
Available as a Ketch or Schooner (3).
The Downeaster 45 is a robust, heavy-displacement cruising ketch designed by Bob Poole and built by Down East Yachts (USA) between 1976 and 1981. With only 29 hulls produced, this rare vessel is characterized by its substantial 39000.0 lb displacement and full/long keel, reflecting a design philosophy centered on durability and seakeeping rather than speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideally suited for experienced coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability over planing performance, particularly those who appreciate the traditional staysail ketch rig for manageable sail handling.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a high displacement-to-length ratio of 381.06 and a low capsize ratio of 1.65, the Downeaster 45 is well-regarded for bluewater passages due to its exceptional stability and motion comfort in heavy seas.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include the Island Packet 40 and the Tartan 42, as they share similar eras, heavy displacement characteristics, and a focus on safe, comfortable cruising with full keels.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the DOWNEASTER 45 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 45ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
5 reported issues across 3 systems for the DOWNEASTER 45, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a DOWNEASTER 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 5 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
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Used sails that fit the DOWNEASTER 45
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