1990 Hans Christian Independance

The Hans Christian Independence 45 is a raised pilothouse trawler built in 1990, one of only four twin-engine examples produced. Designed by James Backus and Gary Grant, this 45-foot semi-displacement hull combines rugged passagemaking capability with classical trawler styling. The design features a high prow, hard aft chines for reduced roll, and a long prop-protecting keel. Power comes from two naturally aspirated Ford Lehman diesel engines producing 270 hp total, delivering a cruising speed of 7.5 knots at approximately 4.5 gallons per hour and a range exceeding 1,000 nautical miles. A folding mast reduces air draft to around 16 feet, and the boat is equipped with a bow thruster, autopilot, and comprehensive navigation electronics including GPS chartplotter, radar, AIS, depth sounder, and dual VHF radios.

The interior layout centers on a full-beam salon accessed directly from the raised pilothouse, which maximizes usable space and visibility. Two staterooms are reached via companionway from the salon, each with its own head and separate shower. The galley is well-equipped and thoughtfully organized, and accommodations include a spacious pilothouse settee with daybed and table. Climate control is provided by three reverse-cycle air conditioning and heating units.

Recent years have seen extensive refitting. Since 2019, the boat has received new mattresses and bedding, refinished interior teak, new televisions, updated pilothouse air conditioning and instrumentation, new generator and engine batteries, a Xantrex inverter-charger, new Raymarine autopilot and wind instruments, a Furuno chartplotter with CHIRP sounder, new propeller shafts with dripless seals and tuned props, new engine heat exchangers, new engine mounts, and a new bow thruster with dedicated battery. The hull and house were repainted with Awlgrip, and the bottom was refinished. A new ZAR HDL 10 mini rib dinghy is included with a new davit winch system.

During the 2025–26 winter service, the exterior brightwork was revarnished, hull and house waxed, bottom and running gear repainted, all hoses and belts checked and replaced as needed, stateroom air conditioning units renewed, and new life rings installed.