Cascade 42 HS Information, Review, Specs

The "HS" designation signifies a significant evolution from the original Cascade 42, incorporating increased beam and freeboard to enhance interior volume and comfort, distinguishing it as a more refined cruising platform. It has garnered a reputation as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers good performance, offering reasonable stability and stiff handling, along with excellent righting capability.

The genesis of the Cascade 42 HS can be traced back to 1988, when production commenced under Yacht Constructors, Inc., a company founded on the pioneering principle of constructing large fiberglass sailboat hulls. The builder's commitment to durability was evident in their hand lay-up construction technique, utilizing woven roving and cloths to achieve a low resin content, which resulted in exceptionally strong and resilient laminates. This method stood in contrast to common industry practices that often led to heavier and more brittle hulls.

The Cascade 42 HS itself emerged from a notable modification of the earlier Cascade 42 mold. This crucial update involved widening the beam from 11 feet 2 inches to a full 12 feet and raising the sides by 12 to 14 inches. These changes were implemented to enhance the boat's interior volume and comfort, making it even more appealing to cruisers seeking extended liveaboard or offshore capabilities. Robert A. Smith, the designer, was instrumental in shaping Cascade's identity, having previously designed other popular models like the Cascade 29 and 36, and honed his skills at the prestigious firm of Sparkman & Stephens.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cascade 42 HS is characterized by a design that balances performance with stability, making it a reliable vessel in various sea conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio of 18.04, it exhibits good all-around performance, capable of moving efficiently without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in heavier conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio stands at 32.53%, indicating a moderate level of stiffness that allows it to stand up well to a breeze and maintain a comfortable motion. The displacement to length ratio of 215.81 categorizes it as a moderate to heavy displacement cruiser, suggesting a solid, sea-kindly ride rather than a light, agile racer.

The boat is equipped with a cutter rig, a configuration frequently chosen for offshore sailing due to its ability to break down the total sail area into smaller, more manageable sails, offering greater flexibility and easier handling in varying wind strengths. Its fin keel is a common and efficient design choice, contributing to its performance and maneuverability. Owners and reviewers often describe the Cascade 42 HS as a moderate-weight sailboat that performs well, offering good stability, stiffness, and a strong righting capability. With a theoretical hull speed of 7.81 knots, it is designed for comfortable passage making rather than high-speed racing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior dimensions are not always fully detailed, the Cascade 42 HS benefits significantly from its increased beam and freeboard compared to the original Cascade 42, which translates directly into a more spacious and updated interior. As a 42-foot cruiser designed for extended living aboard and offshore voyages, the interior layout typically features a thoughtful arrangement to maximize comfort and utility.

Common layouts for a vessel of this size and era generally include a comfortable V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a functional galley for meal preparation, and a dedicated head compartment. The "updated interior" of the HS model would likely feature more contemporary finishes and potentially more efficient use of space. Cascade Yachts' reputation for robust construction also extends to the interior, with a focus on durable, quality materials designed to withstand the rigors of ocean sailing. While exact details on storage and ventilation would vary with individual boats, the larger volume of the HS model would typically allow for ample storage solutions and improved air circulation throughout the cabin.