US 42 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the US 42 can be understood within the broader context of Bayliner's entry into the sailboat market, which occurred around 1970. Founded by J. Orin Edson, Bayliner's ethos was to produce high-quality, affordable boats that offered exceptional value, a philosophy they extended to their sailing craft under the Buccaneer Yachts and US Yachts brands, 7]. The US 42, with a production run from 1982 to 1986, was notably the largest sailboat model produced by the US Yachts division. It shares a close lineage with the Cooper 416, a Canadian sailboat also designed by Stan Huntingford, and is believed to have been built from the same tooling.

Stan Huntingford, the acclaimed designer of the US 42, was known for his work on cruising sailboats, drawing inspiration from robust designs like those seen in North American West Coast fishing boats. This influence is evident in the US 42's design, which leans towards stability and comfort. Bayliner's overall design philosophy for its sailboats, including the US 42, consistently emphasized interior amenities and family-friendly layouts, often over pure sailing performance, a characteristic distinct from many traditional builders of the era, 10].

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 41.5 feet and a waterline length of 32.5 feet, the US 42 is designed as a substantial cruising vessel. Its sailing characteristics are well-described by its performance ratios. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 13.80 suggests that the US 42 is a heavy displacement boat, indicating it is likely to perform best in moderate to stronger winds and may require more breeze to get moving effectively in light air.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, at roughly 0.4375, is quite high, signifying a stiff and stable boat that can stand up to a good amount of wind without excessive heeling. This attribute is particularly desirable for a cruiser, as it contributes to a more comfortable motion in a seaway and instills confidence in offshore conditions. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 312.11 further classifies the US 42 as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, corroborating its emphasis on comfort and stability rather than pure speed. Anecdotal evidence concerning its sister design, the Cooper 416, describes it as comfortable but not a high-performance boat, which is consistent with these calculated ratios.

Accommodations and Layout

The US 42, following Bayliner's philosophy of prioritizing interior amenities, offers a spacious layout conducive to comfortable cruising and potentially liveaboard use. While specific diagrams for the US 42 are scarce, its close relation to the Cooper 416 provides insight into its probable interior arrangement. The interior of the Cooper 416 typically features an aft private double cabin, a quarter berth, and a U-shaped galley designed for practicality at sea. A chart table and a U-shaped settee with a table in the salon provide ample living and dining space. Some versions, particularly pilothouse models, included an inside steering station, though owners have noted that visibility from this position could be limited.

With a maximum headroom of 6.33 feet, the interior generally provides a comfortable standing height for most individuals. The use of fiberglass for the hull and deck suggests a robust and easily maintained structure, characteristic of boats from this era and builder. The design likely aimed for a balance of functional space and comfortable living, appealing to families and couples seeking extended time on the water.