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north wind 40 review
Sailing yacht · 42 ft (13 m) · Port Saplaya, Valencia
expert score
Key specs
- Builder
- north wind
- Model
- 40
- Length
- 42 ft (13 m)
- Guests
- 10
- Cabins
- 2
Verdict
The North Wind 40 is a traditional cruising ketch with solid offshore credentials, moderate speed, and generous tankage for its era. It suits sailors who value seaworthiness, classic layout, and easy passage-making more than modern light-air pace or contemporary finish.
Pros
- +Sturdy fiberglass construction with fin keel and skeg-hung rudder
- +Masthead ketch rig offers flexible sail handling and balance
- +Good beam and displacement for stable cruising
- +Strong cruising range with substantial fuel and water capacity
Cons
- −Older 1978 design can feel dated versus modern cruisers
- −Heavier hull means modest speed in light wind
- −Ketch rig adds sail-trim complexity and maintenance
- −Interior volume and finish depend heavily on refit condition
The North Wind 40 is a classic late-1970s cruising yacht with a conservative offshore-oriented design. Its fin keel with skeg-hung rudder, moderate beam, and relatively heavy displacement point to stability and track-keeping rather than nimble racing performance. The ketch rig adds versatility, especially for short-handed cruising and sail reduction in stronger weather.
On the water, the boat is best understood as a steady passage-maker. It should be comfortable at cruising speeds in a breeze and predictable on the helm, but it is not a light, easily-driven yacht and will be less lively in weak air. Handling is generally forgiving for experienced cruisers, though the extra spars and sail plans of a ketch demand more routine attention than a simpler sloop.
For comfort, the advertised 2-cabin, 10-guest charter setup suggests a practical layout for day use and social cruising, but livability on a 1978 yacht depends greatly on refit quality and current condition. As a used boat, value is tied less to age alone and more to the upkeep of structure, rig, systems, and interior. For buyers prioritizing seaworthiness and classic cruising character, it remains a credible option; for those wanting speed or a modern interior, it will feel dated.
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