outbound 46 yachtworld

Outbound 46 Offshore Cruiser

Aft Cockpit Passagemaker

The Yacht That Will Take You Anywhere

The Outbound 46 is the ultimate cruising sailboat for couples who want to go offshore.

Outbound 46, technical specs.

Measurements

• LOA: 46 ft 04 in
• LWL: 40 ft 3 in
• BEAM: 13 ft 6 in
• DRAFT: 6 ft 6 in/5 ft 6 in
• DISPLACEMENT: 28,000 lbs
• BALLAST: 10,000 lbs
• SAIL AREA: 1,083 sq ft

Accommodations

• Yanmar 4JH80 Diesel
• 80 Horsepower
• FUEL: 190 Gallons
• FRESH WATER: 200 Gallons

Designed and built for serious sailors, the Outbound 46 is a fast, easy-to-handle, cruising yacht that is capable of crossing all oceans in comfort and speed. Often considered the best cruising yacht of this size ever produced, this exceptional sailboat has every feature a cruising couple could desire. With more than 80 boats produced to date, it is easy to say that every detail has been considered and refined.

An easily driven hull, innovative cockpit, a workroom with standing headroom, and an interior that truly stands out among vessels produced today, it is no wonder the Outbound 46 continues to impress discerning sailors the world over.

A Proven Classic That Performs

Proven Design

The Outbound 46 relies on a tested and proven design for its performance. Designed by the legendary Carl Schumacher, its sailing parameters are optimized with solid fiberglass construction and strengthened by a well-engineered structure. The weight of this strength is offset with a long waterline, moderate beam, easily driven lines, and proper weight distribution.

Offshore Aft Cockpit

Long and deep, the Outbound 46 cockpit is comfortable, functional, and has excellent visibility. Six-foot cockpit seats are equally great for entertaining or napping while underway. The wide coamings also serve as comfortable outboard seats. Most importantly, the cockpit is safe offshore and has proven to be exceptionally dry and well-protected.

Refined Interior

The Outbound 46 interior offers a unique semi-raised salon that creates a bright interior and allows for close interaction between the cockpit, galley, and salon. Raising the house a few inches provides plenty of natural light below, space for 390 gallons of tank capacity in the middle of the boat, and a safe three-step companionway.

Design & Sail Plan

Over twenty years ago Carl Schumacher designed a cruising boat that has proven to be one of the world’s best for generations of sailors. She is sea-kindly, fast, and remains without a true rival. The Outbound 46 is designed with a sloop rig and set up as a cutter, or, far more commonly, a solent. The large mainsail effortlessly drives the 46 no matter the headsail choice.

Hull & Deck

Outbound Yachts build quality and construction techniques are regarded as among the best. However, the genius in the 46 hull and deck are in the design details. A sailboat hull that is as fast as the 46 is has no business being so comfortable and stable at sea. While her deck may not offer the massive open feeling that matches today’s trends, it is clearly far safer in every aspect.

Deep and secure, the 46 cockpit is functional and comfortable, whether out to sea for a few hours or a few weeks. Aft, the cockpit opens to her large sugar scoop transom, a perfect place hopping aboard or to enjoy a swim. Safe in heavy weather and comfortable while on the hook, are traits that every owner wants, but few boats provide. The Outbound 46 is known for both.

Hard Dodger

Perhaps one of the most recognizable features on the Outbound 46 is the hard dodger, an option most owners opt for. Safety glass, integrated hand rails, and custom solar panels are a few of the features that define the dodger. Overhead hatches allow for airflow but the hard dodger truly shines while the 46 moves effortlessly through rough seas.

Built For Offshore Sailing

Experienced sailors value the added safety that comes with good sailing performance. The ability to sail off a lee shore, shorten a passage to within the available weather window, and safely maneuver through heavy seas are all features that make the Outbound 46 one of the best cruising sailboats in the world. Equally important is having the comfort required to avoid fatigue when heading offshore. A dry and comfortable cockpit, good visibility, and a forgiving motion are essential for a safe and enjoyable passage.

Strong Hull & Deck Construction

100% hand-laid solid fiberglass hull and the deck is vacuum bagged Divinycel for maximum rigidity.

Premium Sailing Hardware

From electric furlers and self-tailing winches to hydraulic backstays, the Outbound 46 is equiped with hardware from the industry's best manufacturers.

Fitted With North Sails

Regarded as the most sophisticated sails in the world, North Sail utilizes modern design programs and the most advanced building techniques.

On Deck Safety

Designed with serious offshore sailing in mind, all aspects from wide side decks and nonskid patterns to lifeline height and handrail placement were considered to create a safe deck.

Request Details

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Onboard Safety

Onboard safety is paramount when you plan to do serious sailing. While u-shaped galleys have proven to be incredibly safe while offshore, there is also an abundance of handholds on the Outbound 46. In this photo alone there are no less than 12 handholds...can you find them all? Sturdy handholds are carefully placed throughout the entire interior.

Sensible Spaces

Every aspect of the Outbound 46 has been carefully planned in order to maximize both space and performance while sailing. While you can clearly see that the nav station is great for charting your voyage and also serves as an excellent space to work with your laptop, what you don't see are the benefits of the raised cabin sole. Raising the sole a few inches allows the fuel and water tanks to be placed in the center of the boat above the keel. Not only is this the best location for the tanks in terms of performance, it also frees up valuable space below the settees for additional storage.

Luxury Comforts

Outbound 46’s are equipped with everything from the highest quality air conditioning systems, diesel heaters and water makers, to lithium ion batteries and additional Raymarine navigation equipment. The optimization list is long and every boat has been customized to match her owners desires and planned usage.

Classic Styling

The Outbound 46 does is not attempting to be something she is not. She is a classic beauty in every sense. A sheer that more than hints at her abilities and the decision to have a defined angle where the aft end of the house meets the cockpit are examples of styling that will never be out of style. These exterior details are combined with raised panel cabinetry, strong stainless portholes, solid thickness trim and sturdy hardware. While the 46 will always retain timeless styling, it is equally important to note, it is built for the purpose of distance live aboard cruising.

Perhaps one of the best known features on the Outbound 46 is the workroom. The cockpit seat opens above this space to give full standing headroom. It is not only easy to face inboard and work on the generator or access the shaft, it is also possible to stand and rebuild a pump. The versatility of this space keeps the Outbound 46 sailing while other boats remain in the yard.

Comfortable & Spacious Onboard Living

Aboard the Outbound 46 you’ll be enjoying an interior that has been refined for over 18 years. Stepping down below you will immediately be in awe of the classic yacht style and fine woodwork, a hand-crafted feeling that is lost on most of today’s production boats. Upon closer inspection you will discover that every aspect of the interior has been well-planned and designed specifically for offshore cruising. Serious sailors appreciate the many details such as the short three-step companionway that makes movement between the cockpit and salon safe and easy, the abundance of sturdy handholds throughout, a generous amount of storage, easy access to the engine and critical mechanical systems, and of course, the world-renowned Outbound workroom.

• Classic styling and fine woodwork throughout with choice of wood finishes
• Safe Offshore U-Shaped galley
• Forward master cabin with centerline queen berth
• Aft guest cabin with double berth
• Reknowned utility workroom

Interior Tour

Large and bright, the 46 salon has both a U-shaped settee and a straight settee.can. Either can be used as a sea berth. Cabinetry outboard, under the side decks, offers ample storage. Fixed hull ports combine with overhead opening hatches to fill the salon with light.

• Opening overhead hatches
• Drop down table to make a large salon berth
• Built in liquor or wine cabinet creates an armrest in the settee when down.
• Custom placement for additional handholds

The U-shaped galley is built for safety at sea, but is equally suited for creating large meals while dockside or anchored. Positive latching cabinetry, a centerline sink, and a gimbaled stove are hallmarks of a good sea galley.

• Additional overhead cabinetry
• Separate deep freezer
• Steps from companionway

Nav Station

A forward facing navigation station that can hold full-size charts in the opening nav desk. Electrical breakers are within reach and battery switches are also nearby. Even this area of the Outbound 46 has been detailed to make her a better boat for full time cruising.

• Instruments, radios and plotters within reach
• Plenty of drawers
• AC/DC breakers and panel are easily accessible
• Forward Facing

Master Cabin & Ensuite Head

A private stateroom forward that has an ensuite head is the perfect place for owners to enjoy some quiet time. This stateroom feels like it belongs on a much larger vessel, partly because of the opening overhead hatch, but also because of the headroom and overall size of the space.

• Island or pullman berth
• Ensuite Head
• Storage under berth
• Hanging locker and additional storage

Aft Guest Cabin

The first thing noticed upon entering the aft stateroom is that there is standing headroom forward of the berth. The Outbound 46, is an aft cockpit boat with a true aft stateroom. This space has a large berth, hanging locker, drawers and even its own opening ports.

• Full headroom and space to change
• Easy access to the second head
• Cedar lined hanging locker

A full stall shower is aft of the generously proportioned head. The aft head is positioned next to the companionway stairs and also provides access to the workroom.

• Full stall shower
• Optional electric head
• Overhead opening ventilation hatch
• Storage in drawers and cabinets

Perhaps one of the best known features on the Outbound 46 is the workroom that provides a dedicated space for tool storage and to perform repairs.

• DEDICATED TOOL & EQUIPMENT STORAGE
• Space For Washer Dryer
• COCKPIT SEAT ABOVE OPENS TO PROVIDE AIRFLOW & ADDITIONAL STANDING ROOM

Engine & Mechanical Access

The Outbound 46 has been carefully planned to allow for easy access to the engine and mechanical systems has been carefully planned.

• Engine is located directly under the Companionway Steps Which raise on a hinge.
• Additinoal access to each side of the engine through doors in the aft cabin and head.
• Easy Access to Critical Mechanical Systems From The Utility Workroom

Customize With The Latest Technology & Equipment

Outbound Yachts rely on proven equipment, but constantly consider and employ the latest available marine technology to improve each boat. Every boat is semi-custom and built to order, alleviating the need for customers to install aftermarket customizations.

Lithium Ion Batteries

The optional lithium ion battery package modernizes every Outbound and revolutionizes power usage.

Glendinning Joystick Controls

A control system that allows the pilot to seamlessly control the engine and thrusters with the push or turn of a joystick.

Selden SMF System

The engineers at the largest mast manufacturer in the world created the synchronized in-mast furling system and it is available on every Outbound model. Furling an in-mast sail with perfect outhaul tension reduces the worry of fouling a mainsail. Additionally, it means owners will deploy the main more often, which translates to more days sailing.

Offshore connectivity is now available through Starlink systems. Having internet available while sailing anywhere on the planet is truly a game changer.

Additional Resources

Learn More About What Goes Into An Outbound Sailboat

Outbound Yachts are built to the highest standards with quality construction methods, top of the line materials, and fine craftsmanship. Discover what goes into an Outbound.

Discover The Outbound Lifestyle From Owners Themselves

Outbound owners are an active group that have sailed their Outbound sailboats to locations all over the world. See photos, videos, stories, and testimonials from Outbound owners themselves.

Want to see an Outbound Sailboat In Person?

Whether it be at the next boat show or a private viewing of a current owner's boat, we can get you on an Outbound. Contact us to learn about current opportunities.

Outbound Yachts are quality bluewater sailboats built for offshore cruising. Contact us to learn more or to schedule a showing.

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Have Wind Will Travel

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Our Ideal Boat: The Outbound 46

“A Southerly 38 ticks many of the boxes you listed.”

“A Frers-designed Swan 36 that I raced from SF to Tahiti impressed.”

“This sounds an awful lot like the musings of a future catamaran owner.” 

These were just a few of the many, varied comments we received in response to our “ Is It Time for a New Boat? ” blog.  Other guesses were an Oyster 495, the new Island Packets (an IP349 or 439) with the Solent rig, a Pacific Seacraft 40, a Valiant 42, even (jokingly) a Lord Nelson.  All very capable, comfortable boats.  But, the ideal boat we eventually landed on—the one Phillip and I consider a premiere ocean-crossing, comfortable, capable cruising boat—was …

the Outbound 46.

So, how did we get there?  As with our first boat, our 1985 Niagara 35—which was the perfect boat to fulfill our needs at the time—it all started with Kevin Barber, an exceptional friend and an even better boat broker.  We often joke that “Kevin doesn’t sell boats, he sells friendships,” because he often becomes very good friends with clients.  Likely because the process of finding the right boat for people starts with getting to know them very well.  Once Phillip and I had reached the conclusion that a newer, probably slightly bigger, boat with a few more complex systems would be the better choice than an upgrade of our Niagara for our next full-time live-aboards chapter, we brought Kevin on board to have him help us find and vet our options, poor guy.  I say that because we (well, honestly more Phillip) put him through the ringer.  If you haven’t guessed this already, Phillip is a very (very) picky man.  For good reason.  He wants what he likes and he knows very well what he wants (and does not want).  I’m incredibly lucky that he picked me!  But, when it came time to pick our next boat, it was simply a tough call to make. 

Having cruised rather comfortably for years on our 35-foot Niagara, Phillip and I initially believed any boat over 40-feet would be too big, so we had Kevin start shopping in the 35- to 40-foot range and the 3- to 5-year-old range, or newly built if that appeared the better option.  Kevin dialed in.  He began sending us listings for slightly used Tartans, Island Packets, even an Ovni.  Unfortunately, each one had something we didn’t like.  The saloon location not right by the companionway, a cockpit that did not look comfortable (or that it was clear you could not lay down comfortably in), no better tankage than our Niagara.  None were checking all of the boxes, and we did not want to compromise.  This was a huge, “next chapter in our lives,” decision and we were all in.  This would be the boat we would live on and sail the world in.  It simply had to be the right one.  Honestly, the “best boat” in the 30- to 40-foot range, in our opinion, was our boat upgraded, but we had already made the decision to adjust our tolerance for systems and finances in deciding to get a newer boat.  But, it seemed, our aggressive hunt had come to a bit of a lurch. 

Insert Kevin again.  Fortuitously, we ran into Kevin (and his awesome wife, Laura) one evening in downtown Pensacola and sat down to have a pretty fun, but frank, conversation about how many “nos” we had given him.  Kevin joked that Phillip had proven to be his most difficult client of the year!  But, in so doing, Kevin also gave us (I suspect) just the right nudge we needed.  He reminded us of the other list he had sent us.  You see, Kevin, wisely, had also sent us a “dream list.”  Initially, Phillip and I had dismissed it because the “dream” boats had all been in the 44- to 46-foot range, if not bigger (which just seemed massive for two people), and more than we thought we were willing to pay for our next boat.  But, it seemed in order to meet our high demands, we would have to let our tolerance for size, systems, and sticker shock “grow.”   The next morning over coffee, Phillip decided to take another look at the other list.

On the dream list was a Passport, a Hylas, and an Outbound, all in the 45- to 46-foot range, all pricier than we had wanted.  And, the Outbound 46 listing Kevin had sent was a much older model than we wanted.  A 2007, which was why we hadn’t given the Outbound a thorough review initially.  But, after talking with Kevin the night before and re-reviewing the dream list, Phillip decided to launch his own search on YachtWorld the following morning for any Outbound 46s on the market.  “Oh sh*% honey!” his voice bellowed through the living room, startling a splash of coffee out of my cup.  It seemed my picky man had found the type of boat he wanted, and it was an Outbound 46.  Once we finally dialed into this boat and began to learn about the construction, performance, the overall thoughtfulness of the design of the Outbound 46, it was a sealed deal for these sailors.  Plus, everything Phillip and I were prepared to devote to, invest in, and give to our next boat simply called for it.  The Outbound 46 is (pardon my French) a damn fine vessel.  But, Phillip and I are damn fine boat owners, too, fully aware of the time and money it takes to maintain a boat the right way and ready to pour our blood, sweat, dollars, and time into the newest member of our family.  We knew whatever Outbound 46 we did acquire would be one lucky boat, and she would also make us two incredibly lucky, live-aboard sailors.  And, money is something we can make, or borrow.  Time and a boat this beautiful, we cannot.  The Outbound would definitely require us to strrreettcch our budget and our brains to fit 46-foot boat into our lives.  But, with the beauty of hindsight, I’m so glad we did.  Sometimes you just have to take a bit of a terrifying leap, to land in paradise.  So, why the Outbound 46?  Just look at this thing!

Outbound 46

First, the Outbounds are not mass-production boats.  They generally only build between one to two Outbounds a year, because they build them right.  Phil Lambert commissioned the design from Carl Schumacher, with the idea that every feature be designed to be capable while comfortable.  One word sold us.  MODERATION.  Lambert wanted a boat that was exceptionally strong, with a fully-glassed hull and encased keel, that did not sail like a tank.  Schumacher fulfilled with a moderate draft, beam, and mast height that proved a fun day sailer, a capable ocean-crosser, and a spacious, luxurious liveaboard home simultaneously.  Sailing in brisk winds and choppy seas, Lambert described the experience below as “being in a library.”  In addition to the immensely impressive tankage and power/water generation systems that would allow us to go comfortably off-grid at any time, a thousand other little commendable features sold us: clear visibility from the helm, no ducking down the three, wide companionway stairs, locking floorboards, a crash bulkhead in the bow, fuel vents located high on the stanchion posts, curved counter edges, an island queen vberth bed.  All of this in a boat with a beam of only 13’6” and a draft of 5’6.”  Every element spoke to a commitment to moderation, which I feel speaks to so many elements of life: work, play, food, wine.  Enjoy, imbibe, thrive, but do them all in moderation. 

Now, the water maker, generator, AC, heater, hot water heater were all systems we would have to learn, troubleshoot, and maintain, but Pandora’s box had been opened at that point.  Phillip and I knew we had found our ideal boat.  While 46 feet did sound a bit large, I did have a sage follower advise it is the actual length on deck that is the true measure of a boat and its accommodation potential, and the Outbound 46 is really a 44-foot boat with a 2-foot swim platform, so it was really just a skosh out of our comfort length.  In addition, after we began exploring the Outbound option and talking with other owners, Phillip and I learned Phil Lambert is truly hands-on during the entire build and post-purchase process, addressing issues, helping with repairs and getting parts, welcoming feedback, even adapting later models to include owner ideas and upgrades.  Manufacturer support was key for us, and it seemed the Outbound offered this in droves.  Plus, she is just a gorgeous boat.  Do not miss the exceptional design details in these videos Phil Lambert filmed showcasing this amazing boat.    

Exterior Video Tour:

Interior Video Tour:

Now.  The next tough decision.  New or used?  While we knew commissioning a new Outbound would likely take a year, perhaps longer, and cost a heck of a lot more, we knew that might have to be an option if we could not find a slightly used one on the market that ticked all of our boxes.  But, the moment we pulled up listings for a used Outbound 46 on YachtWorld, our fates were joyously sealed.  We didn’t know it at the time, but the hunt was already over.

You might say we didn’t really find our “next chapter” boat.  She found us.  Stay tuned!

Share this:

16 thoughts on “ our ideal boat: the outbound 46 ”.

There is no doubt that this boat is a great place to call home. I like your choice.

Thank you! We were quite smitten with the Outbound!

As always, working with you guys was a blast! I am so excited to see where this amazing boat takes you. This was definitely one of my favorite experiences as a a Broker. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of it!

We couldn’t have done it without you, Kevin! It was fun to bring you along on the process … again! : ). You were definitely a key player in the whole process.

Beautiful boat, excellent choice! I’ve been checking in every day to find out what you’ve selected, suspense has been killing me!

Awww, thanks! We definitely fell hard for this boat once we learned about the design and build quality. We’re excited to share every step of the search and are glad to have you following along.

Congrats on the purchase! I really love what I’ve seen of the Outbound 46. I’m jealous!

Well I think I’m in love too. The Outbound 46 Was definitely not on my radar what a brilliant find. yes it’s built in China but that doesn’t matter they have been making really good boats for a long time. I poured over the specs and I agree it’s a wonderful boat if I had one slight reservation it would be at the lightwave 48 Oyster ( same designer). My father complained slammed rather a lot going up wind in a blow which he did from Fuji to New Zealand some years ago as part of the delivery crew, one of which was so full of his own self importance to catch a Flight from NZ that they could not wait for better conditions ! But the Outbound yes I think probably a more moderate version so will have some of those vices removed. There was an interesting thread on sailing idiots (anarchy) which included bob PERRY chiming in so here is the link if you have not seen it ( I would not normally look at or share anything from SA but since BP was commenting I’ll let it go!) https://forums.sailinganarchy.com/index.php?/topic/128735-outbound-46/

Oh also FYI I like that the boat has a plain spade rudder and not a dumb Skeg. Nigel Calder did a long write Up in professional boat builder mag about how he damaged his rudder on his 40+’ boat with a skeg in the Mediterranean and ended up having to fix it twice because of the serious damage it did to the hull. Instead of just bending a spade type Rudder shaft which would require much less work to repair and the entire rudder can be replaced in the water on many yachts ( did that on a Jeaneau 43). Wonderful choice and perhaps you got something ‘almost new’????? Cheers Warren

Always sage advice from you, Warren. Outbounds were definitely not on our radar (at all) when we started shopping. We had never seen or even heard of them, but darn if they don’t impress, right? I’m glad you agree. Funny, Phillip said he had read that Bob Perry thread, too, when researching the boat. Interesting (valid) thoughts there. Phillip also said (although this will reveal a bit …) that Carl Schumaker had passed away by the time the Outbound we got was built, so Bob Perry actually handled the design of our deck, can you believe that? We feel like incredibly happy new boat owners. Can’t wait to share!

Captain Annie, you will have no problems docking this yacht as it has a bow thruster. It’s just a great yacht for you and Phil. It’s a big step up but with in no time it will fill just right. Just look at all the space you have. Just a note about two things, now I could be wrong because you don’t see every thing and you don’t see how it works sometimes. I was thinking about the fuel breather being where it is thought that maybe better in the cockpit area, just a thought. Also he mention he didn’t like a pump in the anchor locker but rather have drain into the mains bilge . Not sure I would like that because you have now a hole in the bulkhead. But as I said he may have a I sea cock on it.

It’s a very lovely yacht and I am very happy for both of you.

Thanks Captain Mark. We certainly were impressed with the design and quality of the Outbound. We’re excited to share this next chapter. It is my understanding the location of the fuel tank vents was to make it exceptionally rare that water could ever get into the tank via the vent. I’m not sure where in the cockpit might be a better location and I’m not sure those fumes would be helpful in the cockpit, just some thoughts. Thanks for the nice thoughts and well wishes. We’re excited to share this boat with you all!

I can’t believe you’re saying goodbye to “baby girl”. But, the Outbound is stunning! Absolutely beautiful. Good for you two for taking the leap. With your knowledge and experience gained from Plaintiffs Rest, you’re up for the challenge of a bigger boat and new systems to maintain. Big rewards and confidence will follow. I’m very happy for you two and I look forward to future blog posts documenting the transition to live aboard cruisers.

Awww … you get it! It was a very tough decision to think about getting a new “baby girl.” But, without disclosing too much, I can tell you baby girl’s next chapter is going to be awesome. How everything played out with the transition was really an inspiring and touching turn of events. It all worked out in such a wonderful way. We can’t wait to share. Thank you for the kind words and following along. The Outbound will certainly be an impressive upgrade! : )

Annie and Philip: I have seen several Outbounds in cruising areas of note over the years. They never look out of place! Some craft do.

A Bob Perry tip I always loved and adopted is to make certain the cooking equipment fits into the galley storage and onto stove. This came up during a design review once and Bob’s a good cook so I paid close attention. Yes, you’ve a stunner and I hope you move in comfortably.

Perusing the Maine craigslist, I think I found my next heart-throb. A great feeling, no? Going up next week for a look.

Keep sailing, writing, sharing your adventures please.

All the best, Norman Cape Cod

Thank you! We were certainly pleased with this make and build as well. Outbounds were never on our radar before so we were so glad Kevin brought them to our attention. Everything relating to the galley is always super important to us because cooking aboard is a huge part of our lives and enjoyment as liveaboards. Thanks! We will do it, Norm, don’t you worry! Have Wind Will Travel is about to travel further and in far more style! : )

I am reminded of all the wonderful things I have found that were not on my radar screen! And, all the “perfect” things that weren’t…

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