CS 395 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the CS 395 begins in 1979, a period when CS Yachts, under the leadership of Paul Tennyson, was firmly established in keelboat production. This model marked a collaboration with Germán Frers, a designer celebrated for his elegant lines and performance-oriented hull shapes. While specific design briefs for the 395 are not widely published, Frers' general philosophy often involved creating yachts that were both fast and aesthetically pleasing, emphasizing a balanced hull form and efficient appendages for good all-around performance. During this era, CS Yachts, a significant Canadian builder, was known for combining robust fiberglass construction with thoughtful design, aiming to produce comfortable and capable cruising yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CS 395, with its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder, is designed for a confident and enjoyable sailing experience. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 21.79 suggests a boat that is relatively powerful for its displacement, indicating good performance in lighter winds while still being manageable as the breeze builds. This allows for an engaging sail in a variety of conditions, without necessarily requiring heavy air to get moving.

Further enhancing its stability, the CS 395 boasts a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 44.14%. This high percentage of ballast, positioned deep in the fin keel, contributes significantly to the boat's stiffness, allowing it to stand up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable, stable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 189.2 categorizes the CS 395 as a moderate displacement cruiser. This indicates a vessel that is neither excessively light and tender nor overly heavy and sluggish, striking a desirable balance for coastal cruising and offshore passages alike. With a theoretical hull speed of 7.48 knots, the CS 395 is capable of respectable speeds under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout and headroom of the CS 395 is not readily available in detailed public reviews. However, consistent with other CS Yachts models of its time, the CS 395 would typically feature a well-appointed interior designed for comfortable cruising. Expect a conventional arrangement for a vessel of just over 40 feet in length, likely including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a functional galley, and a navigation station. Given its design as a cruising yacht, it would have offered ample storage, and the quality of finish, often utilizing warm wood trim against fiberglass liners, would have been consistent with CS Yachts' reputation for sturdy and appealing interiors. The substantial water capacity of 106 gallons further underscores its design for extended voyages.