Balance Catamarans 451

This composite constructed catamaran is an example of perfect balance between sailing performance and comfortable extended on-board living.

The all vinylester hull (not just the skin) eliminates the chance of any blisters down the track while adding strength and reducing weight by hundreds of kilograms. Carbon fibre has been used in high load areas of the hull and deck, dagger boards, bowsprit, steering wheel, tender davit, cockpit hardtop supports, galley table supports, towel hangers in the shower, and even the recessed bottle holders.

The streamlined hull features knife like wave-piercing bows while maximising waterline length. A pair of dagger boards gives the cat exceptional upwind performance when deployed, but only draws 0.8m of water when up. The shallow keels protect the propellers and rudders, making beaching possible.

The cat has been designed and comprehensively equipped for extended on-board living. The 1kW solar panels can easily power the Spectra water maker which can produce up to 56L of drinking water per hour. Aside from that, the cockpit hardtop is designed to collect rain water with internal plumbing installed during construction. There are also numerous drawers and cabinets for storage. The factory fitted washer-dryer will make on-board living just like home. The Victron Energy 3kW inverter can power AC appliances like induction cooker, microwave and washer-dryer, though air-conditioning the entire boat will require shore power or running the on-board generator. Conditions of the cat can be monitored 24/7 from anywhere in the world with the on board 4G WiFi. Both the voice capable smart security camera and MPPT solar charger are accessible on the internet to show you real time video images, battery voltage and charge current.

This cat is well suited for cruising with kids or on-board office working. The aft port cabin is fitted with a desk, seat and two kid's berths. There are twin single beds in the other port cabin. The owner's cabin with island queen bed is in the starboard hull. USB charging points are fitted next to all beds. On deck, life line netting provides safety for the small ones. The flush deck hatches and lockers are modern and good looking. With the fore deck being so large and flush, ball games may be possible on it.

As for the sailing performance, the consensus of independent reviews is that it is fast. Double digit speed is common. This is made possible by the narrow and streamlined hulls which reduce both water and air drag. A screecher can be deployed from the carbon fibre bowsprit to boost downwind speed. Yet effort is minimised with the self-tacking jib and electric winch. Engine power is the upgraded 2 x 40hp version now fitted with new 3-bladed folding propellers. The fuel system included a Parker fuel polisher.

The boat was first launched in Aug 2017 and used for local cruising for just two years until COVID 19, during which on board systems could not be serviced and maintained. In December 2023, anti-fouling and some hull repairs were completed professionally. Works are underway to replace certain parts like the helmsman's seat, compass, mixer taps, electric toilets and water tanks. Servicing and inspection works are also underway for other systems such as the twin 40hp engines, radar, water maker, and water heater. Hence the boat doesn't look very tidy at the moment.

At just seven years young, 45 ft long, and capable of double digit speed, there aren't many other alternatives. Interested buyers can take advantage of the current low price tag by opting to finish the remaining works themselves. When the works are completed, the price will be adjusted to reflect its enhanced conditions.