Lightwave 46

Offshore Ready

A carefully thought-out evolution of the previous model, the 45, the Lightwave 46 is probably one of the only sailing catamarans to be mass-produced in Australia. This new model that we got the chance to test just south of Brisbane is perfectly suited for blue water sailing - we’ll take you on board!

With half the displacement of similar-sized competitors, the Lightwave gets going in the slightest of breezes.

With redesigned superstructure and bows now inverted, the Lightwave 46 is more attractive than its predecessor. Note the 37-inch bridgedeck clearance (95 cm).

The sailplan with cutter rig is ideal for varied conditions and easily handled by two crew.

1 / 6

Practical info

Boat Test price5.00€ Inc. tax

Purchase

Boat Test price5.00€ Inc. tax

Purchase

Test location: Gold Coast, Australia
Conditions: 12 to 14 knots of southerly wind, sea state slight

The latest Lightwave launched recently in sub-tropical north Australia and continues the reputation of this long-established Gold Coast yard. This new 46 model is a major evolution of the original Tony Grainger designed hulls, penned for the popular Lightwave 45 that launched in 2005. This revamp reflects new market demands and includes a sleeker topside profile with restyled windows. What hasn’t changed is the elegant, raked lines of the boat’s profile and the stepped cabin sides, a prettier arrangement than some other slab-sided designs. Also, the new hulls have reversed wave piercing bows, restyled windows and sharpened cockpit lines. Hull #1 of this model was released in 2021 to celebrate the company’s 25 years of trading, so hull #2 has been a while coming; reflecting the effort that goes into each of these boats. Looking further ahead, a powercat model is also planned with dedicated hulls for cruising under twin engines – see our Multipower News feature. “It’s really exciting times for us and we are fully committed to delivering more quality catamarans to a new gener...

To read in full, purchase the test