Choate 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Choate 40 began its production run in 1979 under the craftsmanship of Dencho Marine in Long Beach, California. Dennis Choate, the founder of Dencho Marine, established the company in 1973 with a clear focus on building high-quality, performance-oriented yachts. The collaboration with esteemed designers like Scott Kaufman underscored Dencho Marine's commitment to cutting-edge performance., 5] Kaufman's design for the Choate 40 featured a fin keel with a spade rudder, a configuration known for offering excellent maneuverability, though with potentially less directional stability than a long keel. The hull was constructed from solid fiberglass, minimizing maintenance requirements. While precise details on Scott Kaufman's specific design philosophy for the Choate 40 are limited, the overall design suggests a preference for a "slightly more spacy hull design" geared towards competitive racing. There is no information to suggest significant variations in the model, such as MkI or MkII versions, during its production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Choate 40 is a masthead sloop with characteristics indicative of a performance cruiser-racer. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 21.11 suggests excellent performance, especially in lighter winds, allowing the boat to move efficiently through the water. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of roughly 0.58 indicates a highly stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up to significant wind pressures and providing a comfortable motion even in challenging conditions. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 185.78, the Choate 40 falls into the lighter, more performance-oriented category for a vessel of its size, balancing speed with seaworthiness. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat handles well and is capable of serious offshore work, with one owner reportedly circling the globe twice in a Choate 40, underscoring its robust construction and reliability. The model has also maintained a presence in racing circuits, with examples still actively competing in regions such as Southern California, speaking to its enduring competitive nature.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details are not extensively documented in general specifications, the Choate 40's interior is described as having a "simple layout." Owners have noted that the interior and cockpit are "very comfortable for family Catalina cruises," indicating a design that balances racing functionality with liveability. Some models may feature a unique flush deck design. Generally, Dencho Marine boats, and by extension the Choate 40, are recognized for their strong construction, which translates to a robust and durable interior. The focus on performance often means interiors are functional and well-suited for extended trips, with appropriate storage for provisions and gear.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Dencho Marine vessels, including the Choate 40, consistently praise their solid construction and competitive heritage. The yachts were built to withstand the rigors of competitive sailing, a quality highly valued by their owners. Many Choate 40 owners are actively involved in regattas and commit to maintaining their vessels to high standards, reflecting a deep connection to the boat's racing pedigree., 9] The ability of a Choate 40 to complete a double circumnavigation speaks volumes about its reliability and the confidence owners place in its capabilities. While common recurring issues are not prominently reported in public forums, the meticulous maintenance often performed by owners suggests a commitment to preserving these high-performance yachts.