C&C 110 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The C&C 110's inception in 1999 marked a significant point in C&C Yachts' long history, specifically under the joint venture with Tartan Marine that began in 1997. While retaining a strong respect for the traditional C&C design lineage, the 110 was conceived as a totally new design, a departure from earlier C&C interiors while maintaining the brand's performance-oriented ethos. The designer, Tim Jackett, aimed to create a sleek and handsome cruiser with notable performance characteristics, targeting sailors looking to upgrade to a versatile and capable yacht.

During its production run, the C&C 110 saw several key evolutions in its construction and rigging. Early models utilized vinylester resins in hull construction, a practice that evolved to post-cured epoxy hulls from 2002 onwards, although this change reportedly added 250-500 lbs to the boat's overall weight. The standard rig initially featured a triple-spreader Offshore Spars mast with rod rigging, with an optional 5-foot sprit. This was later superseded by a double-spreader Selden rig with wire rigging as standard, though the triple-spreader option remained available. By the 2004 model year, a carbon fiber mast with wire rigging became standard, with rod rigging as an option. The C&C 110 also offered a remarkable four keel options: a shoal draft (4.83 ft), standard (6.0 ft), deep (7.25 ft), and a redesigned 'High Performance' keel (6.5 ft) which became standard in 2001, replacing the deepest option.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The C&C 110 is widely regarded as a nimble and responsive performer, living up to its "Express" moniker. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 23.00, she boasts excellent power for her size, indicating strong performance in lighter air conditions and a generally eager disposition. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 38.5% suggests a decent level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively, contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 155.67 places her firmly in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser category, rather than a heavy displacement blue-water vessel.

Anecdotal evidence from owners and reviewers consistently praises the C&C 110's sailing characteristics. She is noted for her ability to "tack on a dime" and quickly gather way, even achieving speeds of about 8 knots to windward in 15 knots of apparent wind. The cockpit design and deck layout are thoughtfully arranged for ease of handling, reflecting a "club and interclub race oriented" approach. While primarily designed as a performance cruiser, the C&C 110 also exhibits solid downwind performance, reportedly excelling at about 135° off true wind in 20 knots. Overall, the boat provides a balance of spirited performance with comfortable handling, making it an appealing choice for sailors who enjoy both spirited daysailing and coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the C&C 110 offers a surprisingly spacious and functional interior for a boat of its size, with a reported headroom of 6 feet 4 inches. Reviewers have described the interior as "amazing for a 40-foot boat," despite the 110 having a length overall of just over 36 feet. The typical layout provides two cabins and one head, with sleeping accommodations for up to seven individuals, usually configured with berths for two couples and additional saloon berths.

While details on specific finishes and materials vary, the interior of the 110 bears few similarities to classic C&C interiors, signaling a more modern approach. However, a common observation among some owners is a limited amount of stowage space, particularly for extended cruising, and racers might find their full sail inventory encroaches on living areas. Beyond this, the general consensus points to a well-appointed and comfortable living space, designed to cater to the needs of its target audience—families seeking a blend of cruising comfort and performance.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the C&C 110 generally express high satisfaction with the boat's sailing performance and build quality. Many appreciate its solid construction and responsive handling, making for an enjoyable experience on the water. The boat is often highlighted as an "ideal performance cruiser," well-suited for coastal exploration and pure sailing enjoyment.

However, some minor recurring issues have been noted. A few owners have pointed out that certain seacocks are located in less-than-ideal positions, and access to the engine raw water intake can be cumbersome, requiring the removal of the engine cover. Additionally, while the interior is generally praised for its design, the limited stowage space for cruising provisions or a full racing sail inventory is a recurring comment. One reported instance of a leak between a locker and the hull suggests that, like with any boat, thorough inspection of such areas is advisable. Despite these minor points, the C&C 110 maintains a strong reputation among its owners for its overall quality and exciting performance.