Cookson 12 M Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Cookson 12 M dates back to 1996, marking the beginning of its production run. Its foundation lies in Farr Yacht Design's successful Farr 39ML, which was conceived as a dual-purpose yacht designed for competitive performance in both IMS (International Measurement System) and PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) racing, while also being exciting to sail at a reasonable cost. This design philosophy from Bruce Farr aimed to maximize speed within handicap rules.

Cookson Boats, co-founded by Terrance and Mick Cookson in New Zealand, had already established itself as a formidable name in composite yacht building since 1979. Known for precision engineering, innovative construction, and a relentless pursuit of speed, Cookson Boats applied its world-class construction techniques and expertise to the Farr 39ML platform. The Cookson 12 M is specifically noted as a variant of the Farr 39ML, often featuring a different rig, which could influence its specific performance characteristics. Construction typically involved fiberglass epoxy with a PVC core, a modern technique for its era, highlighting the builder's commitment to advanced materials and lightweight, stiff hulls.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cookson 12 M, with its lineage directly from the Farr 39ML, is engineered for impressive performance. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 29.04 is exceptionally high, indicating a powerful sail plan for its displacement and suggesting strong performance, particularly in light to moderate air conditions. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at around 0.501, which is very high and points to excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its generous sail area even in stronger winds. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 239.23, the Cookson 12 M falls on the lighter side of moderate displacement, reinforcing its identity as a performance-oriented vessel.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Farr 39ML and its Cookson variant are "real weapons" on the racecourse. Owners have described them as very fast, especially downwind in light to moderate conditions, partly attributed to significant hull rocker and fine ends on some Cookson 12 models. While generally praised for its speed and agility, some owners of the Farr 39ML have noted that the helm can tend to load up under certain conditions. Its design emphasizes speed and agility, making it a responsive and engaging boat to sail for those seeking competitive performance.

Accommodations and Layout

While primarily designed for racing, the interior layout of the Farr 39ML, on which the Cookson 12 M is based, was kept clean and simple to provide basic amenities without compromising performance. The general approach prioritizes functionality and weight savings, typical of high-performance yachts of its era. Interior descriptions suggest a practical and efficient arrangement, fostering effective crew operations. Though specific headroom details are not widely available, the focus would have been on creating usable spaces for racing crews, likely featuring a V-berth forward, a functional head, a salon area that might double as sleeping quarters, and a compact galley. Storage would be optimized for gear rather than extended cruising provisions, and ventilation would be straightforward, consistent with a performance-oriented design. The finish quality would lean towards durability and ease of maintenance, with materials like fiberglass and essential wood trim rather than elaborate joinery, reflecting its racing pedigree. Some Cookson 12 M yachts, particularly those set up for offshore racing, feature robust safety equipment and a practical inventory.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Farr 39ML and Cookson 12 M frequently praise their exceptional speed and competitive capabilities on the racecourse. The boats are consistently regarded as formidable contenders in handicap racing, delivering exciting and fast sailing experiences. Many appreciate the solid construction quality upheld by Cookson Boats, which ensures the vessels can withstand the rigors of racing. However, some discussions among owners point to the helm occasionally loading up, which might require attention to sail trim or minor modifications for optimal balance. Despite any minor handling quirks, the collective sentiment often highlights the boats' ability to perform strongly and their durable build, making them sought-after choices for those prioritizing race-winning potential and robust construction.