Hunter 45 vs Hunter 456
How do the Hunter 45 and Hunter 456 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Hunter 45 | Hunter 45 | Hunter 456 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 46.7 ft14.23 m | 46.1 ft14.05 m |
| Waterline length | 39.6 ft12.06 m | 39.7 ft12.09 m |
| Beam | 13.8 ft4.22 m | 14.0 ft4.27 m |
| Draft | 6.5 ft1.98 m | 6.5 ft1.98 m |
| Displacement | 22,450 lb10,183 kg | 26,180 lb11,875 kg |
| Ballast | 10,600 lb4,808 kg | 9,680 lb4,391 kg |
| Sail area | 922 ft²85.7 m² | 1,000 ft²92.9 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.54 | 18.15 |
| Displacement / Length | 162 | 187 |
| Comfort ratio | 25.2 | 28.9 |
| Capsize screening | 1.96 | 1.89 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 8.4 | 8.4 |
Hunter 45 vs Hunter 456: the short version
- The Hunter 45 is the larger boat at 46.7 ft14.23 m LOA versus 46.1 ft14.05 m for the Hunter 456.
- The Hunter 456 is heavier, displacing about 17% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 45 carries the more powerful rig (18.5 vs 18.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 456 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 456 rates better for offshore work (1.89 vs 1.96).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.