Bristol 40 Information, Review, Specs

Often described as a "racer-cruiser," the Bristol 40 successfully blends comfortable living spaces with solid sailing characteristics, making it a popular choice for families and couples seeking a reliable and forgiving yacht. Its enduring appeal lies in its "overbuilt" nature and traditional lines, which continue to make it a cherished vessel in harbors worldwide.

History and Design

The Bristol 40 began production in 1970 and remained a popular model for Bristol Yachts until 1986, with 149 units built during its run. This period marked a significant era for Bristol Yachts, a company founded by Clint Pearson, a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction in the United States. Bristol Yachts quickly established a reputation for producing solid, seaworthy vessels, prioritizing exceptional build quality and durability. The Bristol 40, like many of the company's offerings, reflected this manufacturing ethos, being known for its robust, often "overbuilt" fiberglass hull and deck.

Designed by Ted Hood, the Bristol 40 is closely related to the earlier Bristol 39, with both models sharing nearly identical dimensions and fundamental design principles. Hood's design philosophy for these models aimed to create a versatile racer-cruiser that combined elegant lines with practical functionality. The Bristol 40 was offered with various rigging options, including a masthead sloop rig as standard, and was also available as a cutter or a yawl, providing owners with flexibility to suit their sailing preferences. These variations, along with several interior layout choices, contributed to the boat's adaptability and broad appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bristol 40's design characteristics translate into a distinctive sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.5, the Bristol 40 is a moderately powered vessel. This ratio suggests that she performs well in a range of wind conditions, offering a good balance between light-air performance and the ability to handle stronger breezes without being excessively overpowered.

Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.37 indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness, meaning she can stand up to a decent amount of wind before heeling excessively, contributing to a more comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 376 confirms that the Bristol 40 is a relatively heavy displacement vessel for her length. This heavier build contributes to her solid, seaworthy feel and comfortable motion, though it also means she is not a speed-oriented racer.

Owners and reviewers often describe the Bristol 40 as a dependable and forgiving boat to sail, particularly appreciated for its full keel which contributes to easy handling and a stable tracking ability. While some describe her as "fairly tippy" for a boat of her era due to a relatively narrow beam and modest draft, this characteristic is often balanced by her predictable and steady motion. The boat's hull speed is calculated at 7.03 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bristol 40 is renowned for offering a spacious and practical layout for a boat of its size and era, providing comfortable living spaces for extended cruising. While specific details could vary given that several interior layouts were offered, a common arrangement typically features sleeping accommodations for up to six people.

The forward cabin traditionally houses a V-berth, offering a private sleeping area. A notable feature often praised by owners is the generously sized head compartment, which many find to be quite spacious, some even describing it as "wonderful" and "spacious with a shower". The main salon typically includes an U-shaped settee, providing ample seating and dining space, often convertible to an additional berth. The galley is usually well-appointed for a boat of its size, providing functional space for meal preparation. The overall finish quality generally features good use of wood trim, contributing to a warm and traditional interior aesthetic. Storage throughout the boat is considered adequate, though some owners have noted that stowage can be an issue in certain areas. Ventilation is typically provided by opening ports and overhead hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Bristol 40 owners consistently express a deep passion for their boats, frequently praising their solid construction and enduring quality. Many consider them well-built vessels that have truly withstood the test of time, often sought after by those looking for a seaworthy and affordable classic. The full keel design is a recurring point of appreciation, contributing to the boat's stable tracking and forgiving nature, making it a reliable choice for both coastal and offshore passages.

Common strengths highlighted by owners include the Bristol 40's robust build, comfortable motion in a seaway, and generous interior volume for its length. The head compartment, in particular, receives high marks for its size and functionality. However, some recurring points of discussion among owners relate to engine access, which can be tight, and the potential for issues with original deck fittings, occasionally leading to leaks that require re-bedding. Despite these common considerations, the active community of Bristol owners underscores the lasting appeal and satisfaction derived from owning these classic Ted Hood-designed cruisers.