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A Smooth Performer-Formula 45 Yacht

By Capt. Bob Smith

Bow Features

The 45’s bow offers a wonderful view and a large space to relax at anchor on cushions while you soak up the sun. Looking back you see one of the great differences, a window spanning from the deck up to standard hardtop with an unobstructed view for the driver and guests up front. The top of the walk-through door slides open for fresh air. Large steps up the center of the dash and a stainless handrail lead you safely forward. A motorized sunroof moves on electric motors to reveal the sky, day or night.

At the Wheel

Ergonomics at the helm lend themselves to comfort and quick reference for the driver. Standard helm equipment includes dual electronic engine monitors, fuel gauges, rudder angle gauges, Raymarine Tri-data, GPS navigation system with E120 chartplotter, Sea-Key Volvo Penta satellite communication/boat data/security system, and VHF radio. Electronic shift and throttle controls are smooth as silk and the power hydraulic steering system with Dino mahogany tilt wheel allow precise and quick control when you need it most. Twin commands seats are at the helm and a curved port lounge allows many friends to join you on the trip, enjoying the view ahead.

Stern Features

Moving aft is a huge U-shaped lounge for entertaining and relaxing. When you are ready for drinks and snacks, the cockpit wet bar includes a beverage center with integrated sink, flush Corian countertop, refrigerator, ice chest, safety rail, and outlets. Our test boat had the optional grill added as well as an optional wireless LCD TV/DVD Another excellent option our test model included was the 30,000 BTU reverse cycle cockpit air, and the windshield sun shade cover. This cover did a great job of cooling the cockpit without blocking out the view. With twin Volvo D-9’s, there was still room to get in for routine checks and maintenance. Main access is through a motorized hatch while you can do quick pre-launch checks through an integrated day hatch. Standard generator set up on this model is a 12.6KW diesel with dedicated battery.

Galley Features

Moving into the cabin you enter a world of relaxation and luxury. The galley is ready for preparing gourmet meals underway. The L-shaped galley equipment includes a convection/microwave oven, upright refrigerator/freezer, and coffee maker. High gloss cherry finish cabinetry is very inviting. An indication of the quality is the dovetailing, rather than nailing, of the drawers. This is furniture, not throw-away cabinets. On the end of the cabinet is a show case wine cabinet with glass organizers. American cherry flooring really makes the galley stand out.

Salon Features

The salon carries the deep cherry finish in its cabinetry. U-shaped ultraleather sofa seating is plush and doubles as another berth. The cherry dining table is height adjustable and has two pedestal dining stools that can be stored for more room. Entertainment is on a 37” widescreen LCD TV with Bose Lifestyle surround sound theater system with dual zone control for the guest suite. This system also has a DVD/CD player and iPod docking station. Included with the stereo system is six months of Sirius Satellite service. A built-in WalVac sweeper system makes clean up a snap.

Staterooms

The owner’s stateroom is spacious and relaxing. The pocket entry door doesn’t impede on the room and features a full-length mirror for dressing. The island bed includes four storage drawers and linens. Two cedar-lined hanging lockers protect your on-board clothes. Entertainment here is on a 15” LCD TV/DVD player and a remote control for the Bose entertainment system. This room has its own dedicated 7000BTU reverse cycle air conditioner. The private head has a cherry vanity with Corian countertop, sink, Corian flooring, Flush and Forget VacuFlush head and separate shower compartment.

The guest stateroom has twin beds that can be converted to a single queen bed with hideaway filler. This berth also has a cedar-lined closet, optional 15” LCD TV/DVD player, and private wet head with Flush and Forget VacuFlush head unit.

Swim Platform & More

Back topside, the transom walk-through leads to a full width swim platform with concealed ladder, swim rails, and pull-up cleats. Our platform included the optional hydraulic lift for your personal watercraft and had a key ring remote for easy operation. The transom shower has a single lever and the dunnage boxes have abundant room for fenders and lines. Included is the Glendinning motorized extend/retract storage reel system for shore power connections.

Specification

The all-new 45 Yacht measures 48’2” length overall with an LOA of 45’ without the bow platform. She is 13’1’’1 cross the beam and has a dry weight of 32,500 lbs. Fuel capacity is 350 gallons and draft is 41”. With the radar, the bridge clearance is 13’10” , 15’5” with mast light. Inside, clearance overhead in the cabin is 6’11” and 5’8” in the guest room.

Performance

We tested the 45 on a busy Intracoastal waterway in Sanibel, FL. She was easy to handle and very responsive to helm inputs. She grabbed turns more like a skiboat than a big yacht. She reached plane in 13.2 seconds and is at 30mph in only 21.7 seconds. Cruising speed is 32.1 mph at 2250 rpm. Cruising range measured 512 miles on a full tank of diesel. She reached top speed at 36.2 mph at 2490 rpm.

This yacht is certainly a smooth ride and the comfort on board is excellent. If you are looking for a performance cruising yacht, the 45 Yacht from Formula awaits your call.