The Westerly Centaur: A Classic Cruiser for Modern Sailors
The Westerly Centaur is a timeless sailboat that continues to attract new generations of sailors. Designed by Laurent Giles and built by Westerly Yachts from 1969 to 1980, the Centaur is a popular choice for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the Westerly Centaur and explore why it's a classic cruiser for modern sailors.
History and Design
The Westerly Centaur was introduced in 1969 as a replacement for the Westerly 25. It was designed by Laurent Giles, a naval architect known for his work on sailing yachts and motorboats. The Centaur was built by Westerly Yachts, a British boatbuilder that was founded in 1963 and became known for its production of affordable and well-built sailboats.
The Centaur's design features a moderate displacement hull with a full keel, making it a stable and seaworthy boat. It has a beamy, spacious interior with standing headroom and comfortable accommodations for up to six people. The cockpit is roomy and well-protected, with high coamings and a deep well that provides good visibility and security underway.
Performance and Handling
The Westerly Centaur is not a fast boat, but it's a capable cruiser that can handle a variety of conditions. Its full keel and moderate displacement provide good stability and tracking, making it easy to handle in choppy seas and heavy weather. The Centaur's rig is simple and easy to handle, with a roller furling headsail and slab reefing mainsail. It's a forgiving boat that's well-suited for beginners and experienced sailors alike.
Interior and Accommodations
The Westerly Centaur has a spacious and comfortable interior that's well-suited for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. The main saloon features a large dinette that converts to a double berth, as well as a settee berth and quarter berth. The galley is located aft of the saloon and includes a two-burner stove, sink, and icebox. The head is located forward of the saloon and includes a marine toilet and sink.
The Centaur's accommodations are well-designed and comfortable, with plenty of storage space and good natural light and ventilation. The boat's beamy hull provides standing headroom throughout, making it easy to move around and relax onboard.
Maintenance and Upgrades
The Westerly Centaur is a well-built boat that's known for its durability and longevity. Many Centaurs are still sailing today, and parts and support are readily available from Westerly owners' associations and other sources. Routine maintenance includes regular bottom painting, engine and systems checks, and sail and rigging inspections.
Many Centaur owners have also made upgrades and modifications to their boats to improve their performance and comfort. Common upgrades include adding a bow thruster, upgrading the electrical and plumbing systems, and installing a wind generator or solar panels.
Conclusion
The Westerly Centaur is a classic cruiser that continues to attract new generations of sailors. Its timeless design, comfortable accommodations, and reliable performance make it a popular choice for coastal cruising and weekend getaways. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, the Westerly Centaur is a boat that's sure to provide many years of sailing enjoyment.
