bavaria 46 catamaran

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BAVARIA CRUISER 46

Friends. family. and lots of freedom., clever concept..

The jury said: “European Yacht of the Year 2015”. We say: that comes as no surprise! That is because you would be hard pressed to find another sailing yacht in its class that offers more space, more comfort, more luxury if you want it, and is also this easy to handle. One special feature: if you would like to make 4 cabins out of the 3-cabin version, the huge forward cabin can be transformed into two smaller cabins in just a few steps. Clever and innovative – like everything from BAVARIA.

Very big and very fast.

The BAVARIA CRUISER 46 offers nothing but pure sailing pleasure, shared with close friends or family. In addition to all the comforts on board, the CRUISER 46 offers yet another big plus: a healthy dose of performance, coupled with safety. This is ensured by the boat’s double rudder blades. With these you can experience the pleasure of sailing in all conditions and on all courses. In the huge cockpit area you can sometimes also let the wind blow your hair back at higher speeds. The CRUISER 46 is stable in the water.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE CRUISER 46

On the official bavaria yachts website.

• Sailing the Bavaria 46 Cruiser: elegant, fast and great handling

One of our most frequently chartered boats, t he  Bavaria 46 Cruiser  sailing boat accommodates up to 9 crew members, and is frequently praised for its spaciousness and comfort, as well as its handling characteristics — something the manufacturer also promotes. But one thing is for sure, it is almost unrivalled when it comes to comfort, luxury and space.

Racing or cruising yacht?

Not only is this yacht in the cruiser category (think holiday boat), but it’s currently part of one of the largest one-design fleets in Croatia. This is why every year it is used at the infamous Yachting.com races — Easter Regatta and Palagruža Cup . Each year around 50 Bavaria 46 Cruisers meet at the start of the Easter Regatta and race along the  Croatian  coast from Murter to Dubrovnik and back. An additional gennaker can be rented from the charter company which means the boat can sail very fast despite not being primarily designed for racing.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Are you thinking of renting a gennaker on your next sailing adventure. Check out our article to find out why you should definitely give it a go —  5 reasons to rent a gennaker .

Who are the designers behind the yacht?

The Bavaria 46 Cruiser , in production at Bavaria Yachts since 2014, is designed by the world-famous Farr Yacht Design (founded by Bruce Farr and Russell Bowler). Farr Yacht Design has been behind the design of nearly a hundred mass-produced vessels, among the most famous being, beside Bavaria, the Beneteau First 35, 36.7, 40.7, the racing boats Farr 30, 280, 400 as well as the Bavaria B/One.

What came before and after?

The predecessor to this Bavaria 46 Cruiser was a boat of the same name, designed by  J&J Design and is easily recognisable thanks to the blue stripe on the hull and across the classic oval windows that were typical of this generation of boats. Apparently, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser has been upgraded for 2022, so we look forward to trying this out as well.

How well-equipped is the sailboat?

As we previously mentioned, this is one of the most popular holiday boats in Croatia and rightfully won the European Boat of the Year in 2015 in the Family Cruiser category. What we appreciate the most is its incredibly comfortable and immense swim platform , which is easily big enough to dance on. And also worth a mention is the spacious, practically designed galley, where you can whip up proper meals just like you would at home. The seating under the spacious bimini and sprayhood is pleasant, providing shelter from the wind in the cockpit and the lamp on the cockpit table makes it wonderfully romantic in the evening.

How does the boat handle?

As this is a holiday cruiser, don't expect racing speeds and as it is a fairly heavy boat (over 12 tonnes), casting off and sailing in light winds can be a bit of a struggle. In powerful winds, however, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser heels quite well , doesn't spin out easily and the gennaker makes for a lot of fun. Just be aware that even though the sailboat does have a gennaker, it isn’t really designed to accommodate one due to the sharp anchor protruding from the bow. This means the gennaker could catch and tear on the anchor while tacking or as a result of a gust of wind. Better would be to move the anchor (not really recommended for safety reasons) or wrap it with cardboard, plastic or foam.

More tips for sailing in Croatia, where the Bavaria 46 Cruiser is popular:

The best of Croatia: a guide for sailors

Croatia in autumn? A definite yes!

Our top marinas from Sibenik to Trogir

Best marinas from Kornati to Vodice

Why set sail from Sibenik?

10 most beautiful Croatian wrecks to snorkel

Yachting without crowds

Top marinas in Croatia

Where to avoid sailing in Croatia

What sails is it equipped with.

Having a furling mainsail allows for easy raising, lowering and reefing of the sails, but makes advanced sail trim impossible. For upwind, the sail area is 107 m 2 whilst for downwind with the gennaker, it’s 206 m 2 . 

In Croatia you will find the charter Bavarias are equipped exclusively with an in-mast furling mainsail.

YACHTING.COM TIP: Hand on heart, do you really know all the types of foresail or the difference between a jib, a genoa and a 130? What does a spinnaker look like and what range of extra sails can you order with a charter sailboat? Check out our article to find out  everything you need to know about basic and additional sails .

How many cabins are there?

Available in three- or four-cabin versions, both include three full bathrooms with a toilet and a very spacious saloon where 2 more people can sleep. The galley is located along the port side of the boat.

Bavaria 46 Cruiser specifications

The specifications reflect the fact that the boat is classified as an offshore cruiser , where comfort, space and ease of operation are the main considerations. 

The displacement of the boat is 12.6 t, 28 % of which is on the keel. The overall length of the boat is 14.27 m, with a waterline length of 12.74 m and its width is 4.35 m with standard draught of 2.1 m. 

Powered by a 55-hp Volvo Penta saildrive engine, the boat is equipped with 2 steering wheels, 2 rudder blades and an L-shaped keel.  The diesel tank holds an impressive 210 litres and the water tank 360 litres.

Who do we recommend this boat for?

If you’re expecting great sporting performance, perfect upwind handling or speeds above the 12 kn mark, then look at other options. However, if you're looking for the ideal boat for a summer holiday and are more concerned about comfort, spaciousness and ease of handling , this sailboat is definitely worth considering and would make a good choice. Thanks to its sturdiness, space and weight, it will provide a feeling of security even under the worst conditions and with an electric swim platform over 2.2 m long and almost 1 m wide, this yacht offers luxurious levels of comfort when swimming and sunbathing . A sprayhood and large bimini covering the entire cockpit come as standard on every charter Bavaria 46 Cruiser and the spacious cockpit with its generously-sized table, provides the perfect conditions for dining during the summer months.

We have extensive personal experience with the Bavaria 46, so if you have a question, don't hesitate to ask.

Denisa Nguyenová

Faq about the bavaria 46.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

First look: Bavaria C46 – proven concept, bigger size

• Theo Stocker
• February 10, 2023

The new Bavaria C46 follows hot on the heels of an impressive C38 and C42, and should deliver plenty of volume below without sacrificing sailing comfort

Product Overview

We tested the latest Bavaria C45 in 2018, which at the time was the first Cossutti designed Bavaria in that size range. Just five years later, Bavaria are bringing out a boat just one foot longer, although for the time being they say that the older boat will remain in the lineup.

The Bavaria C46 will follow in the footsteps of the Bavaria C38 and Bavaria C42 in maximising hull volume with full-length hull chines and a wide beam of 4.7m carried all the way aft. The hull is controlled with a single, deep and balanced spade rudder, and seakindliness is improved by a v-bow section in the forefoot – a concept that appeared to work well when I tested the C38, making the Bavaria C46’s smaller sister engaging and enjoyable to sail despite the large volume.

Where the new Bavaria C46 really shines, however, is the sheer amount of space and accommodation on board. The only fixed point of the accommodation is the saloon and galley, with C-shaped seating around a table to starboard with a bench seat amidships, and a large C-shaped galley along the hull side to port. Aft of the galley is a forward facing chart table – these are making their way back onto boats as remote working from on board is now commonplace.

Plenty of volume makes for a very spacious interior.

This is where the options kick in. The boat comes in three, four, or five cabin layouts, with either one or two double cabins forwards. The fifth comes from replacing the heads and shower compartment starboard aft with a bunk cabin, meaning two families of five could comfortably sail together.

For those looking to cruise without so many guests, the port heads and chart table can be replaced with a utility room, making space for washing machines and dryers, as well as ample stowage space for tools or as a wet locker.

If you go for the four double cabin layout, you can also have en suite heads for every cabin. Some of these layouts will appeal more for charter companies, but the drawings look like Bavaria have got the heart of the boat right, and highly practical.

On deck, the cockpit is wider than it is long, with L-shaped seats on either side around either one or two cockpit tables, which convert to sunpads. Most lines are led aft to the helm stations, though some options have coaming-top genoa winches. Genoa car tracks are mounted on the coachroof for a fine sheeting angle.

There isn’t an option to have boom-end mainsheet attachment sadly, but otherwise this all looks like a sensible and easily-handled boat.

Bavaria C46 specifications

LOA: 14.50m / 47ft 6in LOA with bowsprit: 14.91m / 48ft 9in Hull length: 13.95m / 45ft 8in LWL: 13.32m / 43ft 7in Beam: 4.70m / 15ft 4in Draught: 2.30m / 7ft 2in Draught (shoal): 1.75m / 5ft 7in Sail area: 115m2 Ballast: 2,575kg / 5,677 lbs Displacement: 12,730kg / 28,065 lbs Builder: bavariayachts.com

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The new BAVARIA C46: The new sailing yacht of 2023

published on 11 November 2022

With the new BAVARIA C46, BAVARIA YACHTS announce an impressive addition to their C‐LINE sailing yachts for 2023. With the BAVARIA C38 and C42 already delighting their customers today, BAVARIA YACHTS is presenting the next evolution. For the new BAVARIA C46, the C‐LINE concept has been further developed and re‐interpreted in all areas. For example, the characteristic features of the hull design with the typical BAVARIA V‐bow and chines, which not only give the BAVARIA C46 impressive sailing characteristics, but also create more light space and living comfort below deck in the saloon as well as the cabins. The BAVARIA C46 sets a new standard in its class and is a yacht that combines long‐standing BAVARIA strengths with new features, thus finding convincing solutions for many customers and requirements. BAVARIA YACHTS will present further details about the BAVARIA C46 early next year at boot 2023.

The BAVARIA C46 sets new standards in the combination of ample room, excellent sailing characteristics and innovative solutions. Like all C‐LINE models, the BAVARIA C46 was created in cooperation between the BAVARIA development team and Cossutti Yacht Design and offers a convincing combination for the most diverse requirements on board.

The BAVARIA C46 combines the typical generous BAVARIA space on board and the proven Made‐in‐Germany solidity with even more sailing performance and greater comfort on board. The distinctive chines at the stern and the BAVARIA V‐bow have already given the BAVARIA C38 and C42 exceptionally good and fast sailing characteristics.

Cossutti Yacht Design has again successfully applied this design philosophy to the 14.86 meters long and 4.70 meters wide hull of the BAVARIA C46. As a result, the BAVARIA C46 possesses agile steering, converts the wind even faster into boat speed and, at the same time, allows for maximally large cabins in the stern and foreship. Thus, space and sailing pleasure are a winning combination on the BAVARIA C46.

"After the presentation of the C38 and C42, which was also named the 2021 European Yacht of the Year, our customers have very clearly signaled to us that they look forward to a quick continuation of the concept. Therefore, we have put all our energy into the further development of the concept and are now in a position to present our customers the BAVARIA C46 with its convincing solutions,“ explains Marc Diening, CEO of BAVARIA YACHTS.

Whether relaxed and safe sailing with a small crew, single‐handed sailing or cruising with a large crew with sporting ambitions – the BAVARIA C46 offers all the necessary options for pure sailing pleasure with six optional winch positions, well over 100 square meters of sail area on the wind and optional Gennaker and Code 0.

From the very spacious cockpit, the sun loungers on the foredeck or after a relaxing time on the large bathing platform, you can quickly get into the water. Heavy but useful water sports equipment is always stored within reach in the BAVARIA B-BOX, so that the hours at anchor or in water can be enjoyed in a relaxed way by the entire crew.

Decades of experience on coastal and long‐distance cruises have shaped further smart options on board. Customers can choose from various layouts ranging from 3 to 5 cabins, including a 4‐cabin layout with 4 in‐suite heads or a 3‐cabin layout with an additional separate room at the companionway. This can be used, for example, as a storage and tool room or as a directly accessible locker for wet oilskins. A full navigation station is always on board with the BAVARIA C46.

 „The requirements for a sailing yacht around 15 meters are much more versatile today and can no longer simply be divided into classic categories such as performance or family cruiser, charter or owner’s yacht. During the development of the BAVARIA C46, the focus was solely on what offers our customers real added value on board. And when looking for the right solution, detail by detail, we were able to disprove supposed necessary compromises in many places. With the BAVARIA C46, we have found the balance that customers expect from a sailing yacht of this size with many well‐thought‐out solutions,“ reports Marc Diening.

In the first half of 2023, the BAVARIA C46 will do her first test sails. Further details about the BAVARIA C46 will be presented at boot 2023 in Duesseldorf from January 21 to 29.

Technical Data:

Length overall (LMAX) = 14.860 m Length of the hull (LH) = 13.950 m Length of the waterline (LWL) = 13.315 m Beam of the hull (BH) = 4.700 m Maximum draught (TMAX) = 2.30 m Projected sail area (AS) = 115 m2

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Bavaria Vision 46 review: from the archive

• Toby Hodges
• June 1, 2021

After a mixed reaction to their Cruiser range, Bavaria turned to superyacht specialists to vamp up the new Bavaria Vision 46. Toby Hodges finds out if a star has been born

This is the first Bavaria with an underdeck furler (Selden Furlex), a retractable bow thruster and an electric windlass in the sizeable chain locker. Credit: Paul Wyeth

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

Bringing in a big name to put their design stamp on a new range is an established way for a production builder to boost marketing potential – much like a Hollywood star being drafted into a movie to up box office appeal. But would the new Bavaria Vision 46 benefit from some start quality?

For the revamp of their Cruiser line, Bavaria contracted Farr Yacht Design for the naval architecture and BMW designworks USA for the styling. However, just as a Michael Fassbender or Naomi Watts on a billboard will not necessarily ensure a film’s success, the result was no crowd pleaser.

They produced a stiffer, more balanced and rewarding yacht than Bavaria cruisers of old, but the overall look was not pretty – the ports looked as if they were borrowed from an armoured van.

Faced with strong competition from Bénéteau’s Sense range, Elan’s Impression and Jeanneau’s Sun Odyssey, which were offering clients light, volume and comfort, Bavaria were forced to rethink for the new Vision line.

CEO Dr Jens Ludmann was brought in two years ago from the automotive industry and the Bavaria Vision 46 is the first launch under his watch.

His decision to commission superyacht specialists Design Unlimited for the deck and interior styling proved a shrewd one and, with Farr proving reliable with the hull design, the Bavaria Vision 46 made quite a splash last January.

The teardrop coachroof windows give her a modern look and the sheer level of fresh thinking that has helped make this Vision so light, comfortable and easy to spend time on is immediately obvious once you step aboard.

In fact, the quality throughout this boat shines. It’s the first time Bavaria have used a split mould, and the build has obviously been meticulous.

Then there’s the glitz of push-button gadgets to help promote the ease of sailing short-handed.

There have already been four sales of the Bavaria Vision 46 in the UK and we went to test the first with Clipper Marine.

Director Richard Hewett sees the Cruiser line more for those staying in the UK, while Vision clients head further afield. The test boat was going to a Scottish client who plans to cruise her in the Mediterranean.

Sailing the Bavaria Vision 46

Although styled by some of the best design brains in the business, the Bavaria Vision 46 is still a slab-sided lump to confront on the pontoon. But needs must; volume has to be conjured from somewhere.

The designers have clearly put a premium on cockpit comfort. Bavaria had an exclusivity deal with Lewmar to stock their new self-tacking Revo winches, which allow you to tack the boat at the push of a button.

Mounting the main and primary winches close to the twin wheels leaves the cockpit benches clear of lines, with one coachroof winch for halyards.

In perfect South Coast conditions – Force 4-5 and warm sun – we found the boat comfortable to sail.

• Although the side decks are narrow aft, the high coachroof and integrated rail makes it safe to go forward when heeled.

A single-point backstay leaves those beamy aft quarters unimpeded and, with cushioned backrests – which should surely double as lifebuoys – this area proved very comfortable for the helmsman.

Although from behind the wheel this seems a big boat, the Bavaria Vision 46 always felt manageable.

Beside the wheel an area has been sculpted out to allow the helmsman to straddle the wheel, rest a foot on the pedestal and reach the primaries.

Foot chocks on the sole are well-positioned for helmsman and crew, and it’s easy to move between wheels. Visibility forward (with the sprayhood down) is good.

In 15-18 knots boat speed was adequate – and this was backed up by the polars – thanks to a long waterline that’s just a foot shorter than LOA, although it was hard to ascertain precisely with a roaring spring ebb and no working paddlewheel log.

Push-button tacking

Winches that tack the sheets across automatically at the push of a button are a strange new phenomenon to get your head around: hold a button down and the active winch begins to backwind. Then after a pause to allow the bow to swing, the other winch winds in automatically.

The system certainly worked, but Bavaria’s control panel needs rethinking as it is not intuitive. I have since sailed a Hallberg-Rassy with a similar system which had a much clearer control panel.

Bavaria’s Trim Control system can be linked into a Garmin plotter and autopilot, allowing the helmsman to press ‘tack’ and the whole thing will happen automatically. It’s still a lot to keep an eye on if you are sailing single-handed.

It was certainly necessary to monitor the active winch to make sure it was releasing correctly as the backwinding winch sometimes didn’t release, which could cause a pickle in a tack.

You can also control the mainsheet in and out from the panel if you have the sheet rigged to the coachroof winch.

The test boat had the mainsheet split-sheeted and led aft, which I preferred, as we could take up the windward winch to coax the boom over and invoke some twist in the sail.

Once I got the hang of it, auto-tacking was very easy, though the Bavaria Vision 46 is set up well for short-handed sailing anyway.

Despite 24 knots over the deck and full sail, the cable-linked helms didn’t loaded up too much, and maintained admirable control when heeled.

The 105 per cent jib is a manageable size, even without electronic aid, and with chainplates outboard and sheets led to a track on the coachroof, the Bavaria Vision 46 points well, tacking in just over 80°.

Smart solutions

As you descend the offset companionway, the Bavaria Vision 46 feels stable, with solid grabrails leading down into a large inviting living area.

Thanks to the huge coachroof and hull windows, as well as overhead hatches and 7ft headroom, there is abundant natural light and a pleasant feeling of space.

The accommodation is offered in two or three-cabin formats – the latter has a second heads forward – but the standard layout with a twin aft cabin that converts to a double makes a practical option.

This provides a useful work/locker space accessed through the heads. The offset companion creates room for a central island.

Rather than simply creating extra galley space, it provides something to lean against when working in the galley, making it a practical place at sea.

All sole panels have lifting latches – a big plus to make bilge checking and stowage accessible – and the plumbing and hot water tank are neatly contained beside the galley.

However, it’s a pity all the ply edges and end-grain is left untreated. Bavaria have also chosen an impractical white material for some vertical panels, which was already getting grubby.

But nitpicking aside, there’s so much smart thinking throughout, including superb stowage solutions and dual-role tables and chairs that swivel and lift, combined with a good level of finish, that this makes for a very impressive, game-changing interior.

On deck details

• Vast stowage in the cockpit quarter lockers, aft lazarette and (in this format) the workshop.
• The cockpit table is a piece of engineering, lowering telescopically on support legs that meet lugs on the sole. The tabletop swivels to form a sunbed.
• The central aft bench lifts on struts for access to the drop-down swim platform, and includes a bracket to hold the shower head, providing a proper shower on the aft platform. Nice.
• This is the first Bavaria with an underdeck furler (Selden Furlex), a retractable bow thruster and an electric windlass in the sizeable chain locker.
• When raised, the sprayhood is, unfortunately, at perfect height to smack foreheads (1.7m).

Below deck on the Bavaria Vision 46

A light and comfortable area, but there is no navstation.

Instead the central part of the portside sofa can be raised and locked in place, the cushion removed to convert it to a coffee table cum makeshift chart table with lifting lid.

The saloon is a light and comfortable area, but doesn’t have a navstsaion.

It’s a clever idea, as long as you don’t mind reducing your navigation area to such a paltry minimum.

The saloon table is a clever jigsaw puzzle, which swivels and lowers, using sole boards raised vertically each end to act as supports. There’s practical, accessible stowage below soles and berth.

A good area to work in at sea. Above and abaft the twin sinks in the central island is an alcove for optional coffee machine or beer tap (it is German!), although I reckon this space would prove ideal as a draining rack.

Left: the central part of the portside sofa can be raised and locked in place and convert to a makeshift chart table. Right: there’s plenty of work surfaces in the galley.

Good stowage and a bin under the sinks.

There’s plenty of worksurface and the stowage space is first class: deep drawers, raised lockers, deep bilge for tins/bottles, pan stowage beneath the stove, plus a huge fridge.

Forward cabin

You step down into the forward cabin, so the 7ft headroom continues forward as far as the berth.

In this layout (no en-suite) this master cabin has a lavish amount of space and a vanity table with stool that is larger than the ‘chart table’.

This master cabin has a lavish amount of space.

There’s good stowage in two huge wardrobes and shelved cupboards to each side, and shoe slots in the bilge.

Alcoves in the forward bulkhead for books and cupholders are a neat touch.

A clever, versatile cabin, with twin berths that join to form a large double.

Good stowage and light, but headroom is constricted above the starboard berth.

Ventilation boards beneath berths lock into place.

The Bavaria Vision 46 is a highly innovative design, with a strict attention to detail, a premium regard for comfort and impressive build quality and styling throughout.

As such, the Vision 46 is a distinct step up in both quality and style, which was certainly needed to keep Bavaria up to speed with their French rivals.

Farr showed their influence in the Cruiser line and the Vision too demonstrates admirable seakeeping and is sturdier and quieter below at sea than any Bavaria I’ve sailed.

The German company have a good team in place now which, as well as Farr and Design Unlimited, includes Peter Meyer and Daniel Kohl to oversee the roll-out of the new lines.

With a Cruiser 33 and a 56 to come using the same fresh thinking and styling, it can only mean good things.

I’m glad all the gadgetry aboard is offered as an optional extra, as it’s easy to overcomplicate this simple, relaxing pastime.

But all the mod-cons aside, it’s the build quality and sailing ability that counts – and both impressed me. For a couple or family this new Vision looks a smart choice.

First published in the December 2012 issue of YW.

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As the European Yacht of the Year 2015, the new version of the Bavaria 46 cruiser, launched at the end of 2014, breaks very strongly with the first generation, dating back to the early 2000s. The parentage of this 2014 version descends from the 45 cruiser from 2010 (Farr + BMW Design layouts). So here’s our sea trial of the Bavaria 46 Cruiser !

1. The Bavaria 46 Cruiser: an elegant design

The key concept for this sailing boat ’s brief was to give the Bavaria 46 Cruiser plenty of space . When you’re pretty tall, how can you not be excited at the prospect of trying out a big cruiser whose main characteristic happens to be space! In the three-cabin version, which can accommodate a crew of three people, we’re not likely to be stepping on each other’s toes…

Certainly, some may think I am easily impressed with sailboats, but my accolade is based on my careful observations of this 46 Cruiser from 2010 (Farr + BMW Design layouts). First of all the wide swim platform, the widest in the segment according to the manufacturer, occupies close to 80% of the width of the transom.

The very large cockpit, with the slanting roof and the almost straight bow with no chine gives the boat a very distinguished and elegant look, a far cry from the ultra sporty look which certain shipyards tend to favour.

2. The Bavaria 46 Cruiser and its ergonomics

The cockpit is certainly wide, accommodating two steering wheels and a central cockpit table for the navigation station. Just one small note on the cockpit access, which is only one step down from the platform level. Once on board, you can easily walk past the table on either side to walk down. You can definitely feel that this boat is wider than the previous generation with a midship beam that is further forward.

You also feel this sense of width when you walk to the front. At the front there is a 1,200 W Quick windlass, and just behind, there is a sail locker.

3. A sailboat with quality rigging and fittings

In the cockpit, you’ll find Lewmar winches and Spinlock jammers on the roof. The layout means two people can easily manoeuvre this boat. The (Elvstrom) mainsail on a (Selden) furler is rigged, as you might expect on a Bavaria, the German way, one of the shipyard’s historic standards, and while it might not give you the same performance as a battened sail, it affords a variety of settings in a stiff breeze. The same ethos is evident in the self-tacking jib. Our boat has a 5th winch , near the starboard helm for lowering the mainsail. All the equipment used is generously sized and perfectly fitted.

4. The Bavaria 46 Cruiser’s construction techniques

The deck and deck plates above the waterline are constructed from sandwiched polyester and Airex foam (foam with rigid, hermetic cells that hardly absorb any water over time). For extra rigidity under the waterline, the hull is built from a stitched and chopped mat fibreglass laminate, sandwiched between two layers of Coremat “felt”, all of which is injected with isophthalic polyester resin. This non-woven polyester cuts down the resin’s absorption to a minimum while providing increased stiffness.

The cast iron keel is bolted and glued to the hull with a special reinforced design. The deck is bedded to the hull in a polyurethane sealant and screwed down at regular intervals. The hull, keel and rudders are identical to those used for the previous version.

5. Under the yacht’s deck

Equipped with a generator, a 3,000 W 12/220 converter, a bow thruster and all the usual conveniences, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser has a triple battery pack, an engine, a propeller and house assistance . The house pack itself includes no less than 3 x 140 Ah batteries, a total of 420h , not bad!

A very good point that is often neglected on French models, is the inclusion of a solenoid battery at the head of the gas circuit , so you can shut off the gas circuit after each use from the control panel.

6. The Bavaria 46 Cruiser’s interior

Although the chart table has disappeared and has been replaced by an “adjustable navigation space” for which you use the cockpit table, raising the top like a lectern to store the charts, and though the instruments and electrics panel has been moved to starboard, this layout has certain advantages.

For example, you can seat 6 to 8 people comfortably, at least those who didn’t draw the short straw and get the “jump seats” that fold up when not in use and are located in the galley’s small central island unit. In use, this adjustable navigation space really suits me because the chart table has enough space to fold out a chart in the morning, then, once you’ve put everything away, you can just forget about it until next morning. While the seats on the central island aren’t that comfy, the island itself is pretty handy for helping you keep your balance while cooking in a seaway. The galley itself has plenty of storage. A three-hob stove combined with a oven completes the picture.

7. Impressive aft cabins

I’d been told that I was in for a surprise with this boat when it came to the cabins! The two aft cabins, which both have a WC , are probably some of the most spacious ever featured in a boat of this size !

I was standing up straight and the housing at the bottom of the cockpit only encroaches on a very modest half of these cabins’ surface area, for a very pleasant sense of spaciousness a far cry from the coffin-style berths that are usual in these kind of cabins… The forward cabin with its desk and WC was much more like a master suite than a traditional yacht cabin. The charter version has two double forward cabins.

Everywhere, you can see that the woodwork is high quality and, while it doesn’t quite equal the Bavaria s that were made before the 2000s, a bygone era when the company only hand-built yachts, it certainly holds up to today’s French boats, if not surpassing them…

8. Test at sea: sailing on a Bavaria 46 Cruiser 2015

The helm is excellent in terms of the seating arrangements and is just as comfortable standing thanks to the flip-up foot cleats. The engine controls (75 HP Volvo Sail Drive) are arranged beneath the starboard helm seat. You are able to stand everywhere in the cockpit, especially at the table . We got up to 8 knots at 2,000 RPM and almost 9 on full throttle. Not bad for a sailboat! We were easily able to get out of the port at Les Minimes with the help of the bow thruster, and reached almost 15 knots this morning off La Rochelle. The boat responds very well to the helm, the visibility is excellent and the boat is a bit hot this morning. This is thanks to the steering via lines.

At full speed, in full sail, the west wind immediately takes us up over 8 knots as we head to Fort Boyard which we’re using as a life belt before veering in the direction of Ars en Ré, close-hauled this time. Two of us were able to manoeuvre this Bavaria 46 Cruiser with no problems . The self-tacking jib really comes into its own in these sailing conditions.

The conditions stiffen when we pass the north point of the Île de Ré, heading for Les Sables. From 15 knots, we are now sailing at an established 20 knots. A small luff to de-power the boat, with the engine running just in case, but declutched, and we reef a third of the mainsail and just as much of the jib. Once we relaunched, we regretted doing that, because it wasn’t enough as the wind was rising even more. But it wasn’t a problem to repeat the manoeuvre and roll up “just enough” of the mainsail. Once we’d done this, we realised how useful it was having a sail on a furler and the infinite reefing options it gives you.

9. In conclusion

Elegant, fast, manoeuvrable, well-finished and well-equipped, this Bavaria 46 Cruiser has lots of strings to its bow . I really liked the interior furnishing (adjustable chart table), and the spacious, comfortable cockpit that was perfect for really enjoying yourself at the helm. You definitely enjoy yourself on a 46 Cruiser like this!

Discover all our Bavaria 46 Cruiser for sale among our second-hand boat for sale listings , and become the proud owner of this Bavaria model.

This test was written by François Meyer.

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BOAT REVIEWS | BAVARIA CRUISER 46

Bavaria Cruiser 46 The new family cruiser from the well known German builder offers a huge amount of living space in a Farr-designed hull that sails very well —- by George Day

On a cool afternoon following last fall’s Annapolis sailboat show, we met up with Bavaria USA’s president and founder Kenny Feld aboard the new Bavaria Cruiser 46 out on Chesapeake Bay. The sky was gray, the bay the color of ash and the breeze blowing a mild 10 knots. As the 46 sailed up to the powerboat that was transferring us from one boat to another, it was easy to see the 46’s full hull shape and modest but powerful rig. She was sailing well and making a very good turn of speed. With twin rudders, the leeward rudder always stays down in the water while the windward rudder looses some of its bite as the boat heels. As the 46 sailed by us, we noted its distinctive transom with the wide swim platform folded neatly away.

Trimmed in hard, the 46 was able to sail at close to 40 degrees to the true wind. The small genoa sheets inside the side stays so the sheeting angles are quite narrow. The in-mast furling mainsail, built by Elvstrom, was cut quite flat but was drawing nicely. The main sheet uses what is being called the “German sheeting system” since all of the Bavarias are set up this way; the sheeting involves two independent main sheets, port and starboard, that replace the sliding traveler. You use the windward sheet to trim the sail and the leeward sheet to trim the leech in much the same way you would with a conventional traveler. When it comes time to jibe the main, you can maintain complete control of the boom through the jibe by handling both sheets at the same time, a job easily managed by one person.

After a few tacks, we eased sheets and power reached into the bay for a while. With the apparent wind at 90 degrees, we were able to sail at 7.5 knots in 10 knots of true wind. For a family cruiser, this is a pleasant turn of speed. Cracking off to about 125 degrees to the apparent wind, an angle that still kept the genoa drawing well, we found that the 46 was giving us just under 8 knots.

Under power the 75-horsepower Volvo with a sail drive unit pushed the 46 with ease. At cruising revs of 2200 rpms and fairly flat water, the boat settled down at 6.5 knots. At full revs we hit a maximum speed of 8.5 knots. The 46 carried 56 gallons of fuel. At cruising revs the engine will burn about three quarters of a gallon of diesel an hour which will give you a powering range of approximately 500 miles.

Like a lot of modern boats, the 46 is quite high sided and has a lot of windage that affects her handling around the docks. You have to anticipate the effects of a cross breeze and use the windage to help you maneuver. With twin rudders, the boat turns very smartly. In forward, since you do not get any steering benefit on the rudders from prop wash, you need to add a bit of speed to allow the twin rudders to bite the water. Once you grow accustomed to the windage and the required reverse speeds, the 46 will be as simple to dock and maneuver as any modern cruising boat.

LIVING ABOARD Modern cruising boats have evolved very quickly in the last two decades with the almost universal acceptance of voluminous hulls, large stern platforms, beamy aft sections, twin wheels and giant cockpits. The emphasis on comfort and convenience has never been stronger. The old adage that a cruising boat should “drink eight, feed six and sleep four” is way out of date. Today’s family cruisers need to “drink 12, feed eight and sleep six.”

The 46 has plenty of cockpit storage for lines and safety gear. Forward, just aft of the chain locker, there is a large garage where you can stow downwind sails, fenders, spare anchors and more. The bulkhead that separates the garage from the chain locker is essentially a collision bulkhead that will protect the boat should you hit a container.

Down below, the boat we sailed had the three-cabin owner’s layout. The master cabin lies forward and has a queen-size double berth on the centerline that you can walk around. There is tons of storage for clothes and spare parts and ample hanging space. The head and shower are in their own compartments, port and starboard.

The galley lies along the port side of the saloon and is slightly L-shaped. The 46 comes with two fridge boxes, double stainless steel sinks and a three burner propane stove. There is storage in cabinets above the counter and in large lockers beneath it. In the middle of the saloon there is a galley-island with additional counter space and bottle storage. The island faces the U-shaped dinette and has a folding seat that will be comfortable for two. All together, the dinette will seat eight for dinner. The saloon table has a chart locker built into it so you can sit in the dinette to navigate, use the radio or monitor ship’s systems.

THE BAVARIA WAY Bavaria is one of the world’s largest yacht builders with the capability of turning out a thousand or more sailboats annually. Yet, the company also has the capability to build each of its yachts to a custom order that combines all of the many choices and options that appeal to a new buyer. The delivery times between placing the order and taking your first sail will be about two months.

In North America, Bavaria USA is the sole dealer for the line and runs its own proprietary stores in Mystic, CT, Annapolis, MD, Atlanta, GA and San Diego, CA. More stores are in the works for 2015. By selling direct, Bavaria USA is able to pass along significant savings to new owners and has the ability of running its own charter operations at each location. This makes it easy for prospective owners to test sail a Bavaria and for owners to defray some of the operating costs by offering their boats for charter.

Bavaria-built cruising boats are a great combination of comfort, quality and impressive sailing characteristics. The new 46 is just right for a couple who likes to cruise with friends and family and who entertains aboard frequently. And, the boat will satisfy even the fussiest sailors when it some to sailing and motoring performance.

BAVARIA CRUISER 46 LOA 46’10” LWL 41’8” Beam 14’3” Draft 5’8” Draft(deep) 6’11” Sail area 1,151 sq. ft. Water 95 gals. Fuel 56 gals. Engine 55-hp. Engine (opt.) 75-hp.

Bavaria USA 855-222-1120 [email protected]

Author: Blue Water Sailing

A catamaran for sailing and sharing

The Open 46 was created to meet the expectations of today’s travelers who are looking for a true sailing experience without sacrificing comfort. Whether you are planning a few days at sea or a round-the-world trip, this luxury yacht will take you to the most beautiful spots in the world while your family and friends are enjoying pure comfort in a beautifully designed interior.    A spacious and luxurious living space

The innovative concept of the Open 46 catamaran is based on a sleek and elegant design. The living room and the cockpit have been merged to gain space - it’s the essence of the "Open" concept. The living room of the Open 46 offers beautiful volumes, like an invitation to enjoy daily life in an amazingly elegant and warm atmosphere. The interior is very chic, made of dark wood with very bright natural light and neat details in stainless steel.

The details that make the difference

• A spacious interior with a contemporary design
• A breathtaking view of the ocean from the living room
• Elegant and strong woodwork and veneers
• Cabins bathed in light thanks to large hull portholes
• Numerous storage spaces

Discover the 360° view of the NAUTITECH 46 OPEN!

A word from the architect.

"The Open 46 celebrates the perfect balance between performance and comfort. It is designed for sailing enthusiasts looking for optimum comfort as well as less experienced sailors looking for a true sailing experience."

Marc LOMBARD, 

Architect of the 46 Open

4 cabin version

3 cabins or 4? Choose between two layouts - The 46 Open as a 3-cabin version with a generous owner’s suite, or as a 4-cabin version that accomodates 8 people - the choice is yours !

3 cabin version

3 cabins or 4? Choose between two layouts - The 46 Open as a 3-cabin version with a generous owner’s suite, or as a 4-cabin version that accomodates 8 people - the choice is yours !

Welcome on board

Discover the Nautitech 46 Open with some data

Technical data

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Conquering the oceans, exploring the seas on a catamaran or simply sharing moments with family, friends or as a couple? 

Discover the story of Juliette & Hubert and how realized their dream of sailing around the world on a catamaran. On board their 46 Open, they tell us part of their story.