Avance 40 DH Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The production of the Avance 40 DH commenced in 1982, extending Avance Yachts' prolific period that began in the early 1970s. Avance Yachts, with Öja Båtar AB serving as its primary manufacturing force in Finland, established a reputation for bringing innovative and aesthetically pleasing designs to life in durable fiberglass. While other iconic Avance models like the Avance 36 were designed by Peter Norlin, the 40 DH specifically credits Sparkman & Stephens, further solidifying the brand's commitment to high-caliber design across different naval architects. 1, 7, Builder Article The "DH" in its name signifies its distinguishing deck house configuration, offering enhanced interior light and visibility, which was a notable feature for cruising yachts of its era. The hull is constructed from hand-laid fiberglass, with the deck also being fiberglass. It features a keel/centerboard hull type with a cutter rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 40 feet and a waterline length of 32 feet, the Avance 40 DH is designed for comfortable and efficient passage making. Its design ratios provide insight into its likely performance characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.96, the Avance 40 DH suggests a good balance for a cruiser, indicating it should perform adequately in lighter winds without being excessively powered in heavier conditions. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 0.43, points to a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Avance 40, which shares a similar hull, is described as a moderate displacement sailboat that is a good performer and very stable and stiff with good righting capability. This robust stability aligns with the Sparkman & Stephens design philosophy, which typically prioritizes seaworthiness and reliable handling for offshore cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Avance 40 DH's deck house configuration is a key aspect of its interior, providing a brighter and more spacious feel in the main salon area compared to traditional trunk cabin designs. While specific detailed interior layouts are not widely documented, Avance yachts of this period, including the Avance 40, were known for their "beautiful teak interior," suggesting a high-quality finish with extensive use of wood trim. Typical for a 40-foot cruising yacht of its vintage, the layout would likely include a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage would be ample for extended cruising, and the deck house design likely enhances natural light and ventilation, critical for comfort during longer voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Avance yachts consistently praise their solid construction and seaworthiness, reflecting the "meticulous craftsmanship" that defined the brand's output from its Finnish builders. While specific owner reviews and common issues for the Avance 40 DH are not readily available in public forums, the broader reputation of Avance boats suggests these vessels are generally well-regarded for their durability and classic lines. As with any boat of its age, potential owners would typically consider general maintenance items common to fiberglass yachts from the 1980s, such as potential for original deck fittings to require re-bedding, or inspection of older systems.