Quote:
Originally Posted by ssullivan  The Gulfstar 45 is a different hull form with many different design features from the other Gulfstars. They share a lot of the same hardware and things, but there are a number of differences - one of them being speed.
The Gulfstar 45 is called a "Hirsh", while no other Gulfstars were done by Hirsh. (it is frequenly incorrectly spelled Hirsch if you are looking for them online)
The Gulfstar 45 is a better sailor than other Gulfstars and better than full keel boats, as it has a modified fin keel. That said, you will need to add a downwind sail if you want to be happy. The boat points up well (for a modified fin) and we averaged 6-7 knots, averaging all conditions, from dead calm to blustery. The max speed we ever saw was 8.9 knots, but we never did see 9. You'll see 6 knots all the time, and 7 a lot of the time.
The sail plan is not tall but in all honesty, I don't see putting anything larger on this boat. As it is, the genoa sheets are 3/4", the mainsheet is 5/8", etc... lots of force there.
They are a good combination between a boat that will sail, and a boat that will be safe in the ultimte storm (full keels), with their modified fin keel.
They can take a lot of weather, given the 26,000lbs displacement. They are very comfortable under sail and feel like you can go just about anywhere in them without worrying about the boat. They are strong too. I hit a dock once on my first day out with her backing into a slip. I broke the dock and had to pay for the damage. Boat damage? Not even a scratch. Just a little mark from the wood of the dock I had to buff out with a little spit and my finger.
When buying them, watch for gelcoat voids. We had more of them than I was comfortable with. Other than that... very reliable boat. Everything was built strongly.
PM me with any questions you might have. I know this boat inside, out, under and over. |
Sullivan; great and many thanks as this is most comforting to hear from an owner//not the broker
You are correct on Hirsh as it was misspelled we never found out. He was a good designer? What do you think of her entry?
Could you compare her with the famous Norseman 44.7? (double the price)
Would you consider a 50 instead for better ? sailing / cruising?
*we found one ketch and are trying to find out if that was originally produced as ketch as this seems a good idea NO/?
** is she not fully glassed? what core does she have on hull and deck?
***would you have an airco or is she well ventilated from your experience?
Eric