Allures 45
PRICE From £225,000 YEAR 2012-2017 (45.9 post 2017)
This indomitable centreboarder first appeared as a 44 in 2007 but was updated to the 45 in 2012. Unlike some aluminium yachts, the hull panels are rolled to provide a rounded rather than hard-chined hull, and she has a GRP deck and coachroof.
The hulls are fabricated by Garcia before being fitted at the Cherbourg-based Allures yard. She has a 9/10ths fractional ‘slutter’ rig with a big mainsail, running backstays and single-line reefing. A furling genoa and staysail are standard, with the option of a furling code zero for downwind sailing.
The cockpit is roomy with cork-covered seating. Twin wheels are standard, stowage is good, and an arch supports various antennae, plus a solar panel if required.
Decks are wide and uncluttered, with the high toerail facilitating access forward. Two rollers handle twin anchors, with the short bowsprit keeping them clear of her stem. Just behind the inner stay is a full-depth sail locker.
Her accommodation is airy and light thanks to the large windows, and stowage is excellent. The central settee cleverly conceals the centreboard casing. A twin-leaf saloon table seats six in comfort and, with the two small leaves folded, lowers to form a large double berth. She has a chart table with seats either side and good views outside. A wellappointed linear galley uses the back of the central bench seat for support and there’s room for a full-size cooker with oven and fridge-freezer. A large, 550l water tank sits under the saloon sole.
To port, aft, there’s a workshop/technical cabin, ideal for housing all the extra bluewater cruising gear, plus a small work bench.
Under sail, she is powerful but needs to be reefed on time as most of her ballast is in the hull. She exhibits a seakindly motion underway, so living on board underway is very relaxing.