ERICSON 46
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 45.83 ft |
| LWL | 35 ft |
| Beam | 13.25 ft |
| Draft | 7.17 ft |
| Displacement | 31,500 lb |
| Ballast | 16,499.7 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 63 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 20 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 53.92 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16.08 ft |
| FLforestay | 20 ft |
| Mainsail | 1,098.2 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 630 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 1,071 sq ft |
Engine
| Commonly | Universal, Kubota, Atomic 4 |
About the ERICSON 46
Designed by Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts (USA) between 1971 and 1974, the Ericson 46 is a rare production yacht with only 20 hulls constructed. Its substantial displacement of 31500.0 lb and beam of 13.25 ft reflect a design prioritizing stability and interior volume over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and those seeking a spacious, stable platform for protected waters, given its heavy displacement and narrow waterline length of 35.0 ft.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.68 and a comfort ratio of 40.76, the Ericson 46 offers inherent stability for offshore passages, though its age and reported structural issues require rigorous verification of hull integrity before bluewater use.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other late-1960s and early-1970s heavy-displacement American cruising sloops like the Cal 40 or O'Day 38, as they share similar fin keel configurations and comfort-oriented layouts.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 45.83ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
24 reported issues across 8 systems for the ERICSON 46, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ERICSON 46? 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 24 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 ERICSON 46?
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Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Universal, Kubota, Atomic 4, Yanmar — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the ERICSON 46
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