The Gulfstar 45, also known as the Hirsch 45, is a sailing yacht that was built by Gulfstar Yachts in the 1970s. It was designed by the renowned naval architect, Vince Hirsch, and is considered a classic cruising sailboat.
The Gulfstar 45 is a center cockpit ketch, which means it has two masts and a raised cockpit in the middle of the boat. This design provides a spacious and comfortable living area below deck, as well as good visibility for the helmsman. The boat has a solid fiberglass hull, making it sturdy and reliable for long-distance cruising.
With a length overall of 45 feet and a beam of 12.5 feet, the Gulfstar 45 offers ample interior space for living and storage. It typically has a three-cabin layout, including a master stateroom aft with an en-suite head (bathroom), a guest cabin forward with a V-berth, and a second head. The main salon is located amidships and features a dining area, a well-equipped galley, and a navigation station.
The Gulfstar 45 is known for its comfortable and seaworthy sailing characteristics. The ketch rig allows for easy sail handling, as the smaller mizzen mast helps balance the boat and provides additional options for sail combinations. The boat is often praised for its stability and ability to handle various weather conditions.
Overall, the Gulfstar 45 (Hirsch 45) is a well-regarded cruising sailboat that offers a combination of comfort, performance, and classic design. It is popular among sailors looking for a reliable and spacious vessel for long-distance cruising or liveaboard purposes.
