CS 40 Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the CS 40 begins in 1987, a pivotal year for its builder, CS Yachts, when the company was experiencing its zenith in production and had expanded into a larger facility., 1, 2] The CS 40 was penned by Tony Castro, a renowned naval architect known for numerous winning designs, who had taken the helm as chief designer for CS Yachts after Raymond Wall's departure., 6, 11, 14] Castro's design for the CS 40 quickly garnered recognition, being awarded "Yacht of the Year USA" in 1986, likely in its design year, underscoring its immediate impact in the sailing community.

CS Yachts was well-regarded for producing high-quality cruising yachts constructed primarily from fiberglass, emphasizing durability and a classic, elegant aesthetic. The CS 40 continued this tradition, reflecting a design philosophy focused on creating well-built, comfortable, and capable vessels. During its production run, the CS 40 was offered with several keel configurations, including a deep keel at 6.83 feet, a standard keel at 6.58 feet, and a shoal draft option at 5.00 feet, providing versatility for various cruising grounds. Furthermore, a tall rig option was available, featuring an 'I' dimension of 53.00 feet and a 'P' dimension of 47.20 feet, compared to the standard rig's 51.00 feet and 45.00 feet respectively, allowing owners to optimize for different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The CS 40's design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 18.46, the CS 40 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air, allowing it to move efficiently even when winds are moderate. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.441 indicates a high degree of stiffness and stability, enabling the boat to stand up well to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at 217.6, categorizes the CS 40 as a moderate-weight performance cruiser, striking a balance between swiftness and seaworthiness.

Anecdotal reports align with these metrics, describing the CS 40 as a "moderate weight sailboat which is a good performer" and "very stable / stiff" with good righting capabilities. The yacht is generally considered easily handled, often managed effectively by just one or two people, making it an appealing choice for couples or small crews. Its design objectives as a performance-oriented cruiser are evident in its ability to deliver reliable and efficient sailing across various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not available, the interior of the CS 40 is well-appointed, contributing to its reputation as a comfortable cruiser. The accommodations typically feature a "lovely interior with cherry joinery," providing a warm and classic ambiance throughout the cabin. The layout commonly includes two staterooms, offering privacy and ample sleeping quarters, alongside spacious communal areas. The galley, central to the living space, is generally equipped with wooden cabinetry, a dual sink, and a stove, suitable for extended cruising and meal preparation. The overall interior design emphasizes comfort and liveability, consistent with CS Yachts' philosophy of building capable cruising vessels with solid and comfortable interiors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of CS 40s, like many Canadian Sailcraft enthusiasts, often form close-knit communities, sharing information and experiences that speak to the enduring appeal and quality of their vessels. Owners consistently praise the solid construction and the comfortable motion of CS Yachts, traits that are very much evident in the CS 40. The CS 40 is frequently lauded as "an ideal vessel for those planning to cruise," highlighting its suitability for extended voyages and living aboard. While no widespread or recurring issues specific to the CS 40 are commonly cited in owner forums, some minor aesthetic preferences, such as the appearance of the shoal draft keel, have occasionally been noted. Overall, the consensus among owners reinforces the CS 40's legacy as a high-quality, well-built, and beloved cruising yacht.