The Oceanis 45 has premiered two major changes : the mast had moved aft, for more balance of the sail plan both in area and aspect ratio, and the cockpit had grown bigger. The 46.1 goes even further in these directions. In addition, it benefits from our recent CFD research (computational fluid dynamics, or virtual tawing tank), by which we have obtained a more stable hull, without added drag. With its fuller, wider, but less deep forward sections, its hard chine, slightly stepped in the front, this is a powerful and well behaved boat, as evidenced by the first sea trials.
 

Converting puffs into speed rather than heel, it is a joy to steer. Unlike the Oceanis 45's single rudder, the 46.1's twin rudder virtually make wipeouts a thing of the past. Looking at the rig, the centered lower shroud allow a better circulation on the side deck, while the vertical shrouds on the sidewall offer all the stiffness needed to control the mast. A large bowsprit offset the downwing sails towards the front. Optionaly, the performance or carbon rigs are the perfect companions to the deepest draft keel, which, thanks to its lead bulb and favorable aspect ratio, could make one wish to sail upwind, even while cruising !