Cambria 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Cambria 40 made its debut in 1985, originating from the design and building company of David Walters Yachts. The underlying design criterion for the Cambria series was to create a vessel capable of fast, comfortable, and performance-oriented cruising. Each Cambria 40 was a labor of love, with an average of 7,500 hours dedicated to its construction, a clear indication of a commitment to the highest quality in semi-custom yacht building.

When Cabo Rico Custom Yachts, Inc. acquired Cambria Yachts, they continued the production of models like the Cambria 46, extending the legacy of these well-regarded designs. The Cambria 40, like other yachts from this lineage, benefits from Cabo Rico's well-established manufacturing ethos, which prioritizes heavy displacement and robust construction for safe and comfortable passage-making in various conditions. While the primary model features a fin keel, some Cambria models, including potentially the 40, were also built with a shoal draft keel and a centerboard, offering versatility for different sailing grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cambria 40's design specifications translate into a distinctive sailing profile. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.78, she is a moderately powered vessel. This suggests a boat that might require more breeze to truly come alive in light air, but which will prove powerful and capable once the wind picks up. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.365 indicates a reasonable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a good breeze without excessive heel.

A key characteristic of the Cambria 40 is her heavy displacement, reflected in a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 338.1. This places her firmly in the category of a stout, traditional cruiser, renowned for a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners have described the experience of sailing a Cambria as a "joy," whether along the coast or on ocean voyages, underscoring her balanced design and robust handling. Equipped with a masthead sloop rig, the Cambria 40 is designed for straightforward and efficient sail management.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts can vary between individual boats due to their semi-custom nature, the Cambria 40 offers a practical and comfortable living space, designed to meet the demands of extended cruising. The interior typically features a single entry point, leading into a well-appointed cabin. A large V-berth cabin is situated forward, providing ample sleeping quarters. Given the builder's reputation, one can expect solid construction and high-quality finishes throughout, with a focus on durability and functionality for life at sea.