CAL 2-46 Looking for hull construction info

[Michael Klautky]

... looking at a 1974 CAL 2-46 for possible purchase, but don't know much about the boat, its construction and performance. Would appreciate anyone who could provide feedback on the above.

Thanks,
Michael K.

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Michael,
I've done a couple of round the Big Island cruises (Hawaii) on a Cal 2-46. They are well appointed and counstructed boats with gobs of room below and a comfortable aft cabin. They sail a bit better than most motor sailers and have a little bit of trouble in light airs but then again they weren't built for racing. Great cruisers and liveaboards. Is the one you are interested in a ketch rig?
There is a Cal 3-46 poster on this forum who might chime in.
Kind regards,
JohnL

[Michael Klautky]

... thanks for the info SkprJohn... it's a sloop rig, but considering building in a bow sprit to extend genoa sail area a little, since it's mast height is only 55'. However, have not looked into what might happen to the "balance" of the boat, and whether or not the extra weight forward would be problematic. Any thoughts on that? ... anyone?

[SkiprJohn]

Aloha Michael,
There would be no problem with a bit extra weight forward. There is plenty of weight aft to counterbalance it with the big aft cabin where you can store lots of heavy things if you like. If you were thinking of modifications when out of the water I would also consider adding a little bit more rudder area.
Kind regards,
JohnL

[Michael Klautky]

... hmmm SkiprJohn ... did not think of needing to do something w/the rudder. Has this been a common problem w/this boat or just an added convenience factor to make it more maneuvrable? I know it is not skegged, which does bother me from the safety perspective, but I suppose w/diligent care we should be allright. Is the rudder on this one a known archilles heel?

Thanks again skipper.

Michael

[SkiprJohn]

No to all your questions about the rudder. I just found it to be a little bit non responsive in some sailing situations and when hauled it looked a bit small. Just a suggestion and not at all a cautionary note. I'm not a nautical engineer or designer but just an opinion giver.
kind regards,
JohnL

[GordMay]

THE CAL 46 CRUISING ASSOCIATION Goto: Cal 46

[Perithead]

Michael, I dont know of any information on the Cal 46 in particular but I do have links to the restoration of the Cal 28, 29, and 40 which could give you some information.
Might help...

[Eagle]

Dear Michael. Me and my wife are the happy owners of a Cal 2-46. We have been sailing for 5 years in the lovely boat. This summer I installed a bowthruster, because my wife has troble with her arms, so now I am able to sail the boat by my self. If you are interested, I can send you some pictures from the installation. Kind regards Eagle