Dickerson 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Dickerson 40 emerged during a pivotal era for Dickerson Boatbuilders, under the ownership of Thomas Lucke, who acquired the company in 1967. Lucke continued the legacy of founder Bill Dickerson, focusing on the production of popular strip-planked mahogany ketches, including the Dickerson 40, 15]. The vessel's production spanned from 1968 to 1974. Consistent with the builder's long-standing ethos, the Dickerson 40 was constructed with a wood strip-planked hull, a method known for its strength and durability. This traditional construction method contrasted with the later shift to fiberglass seen in subsequent Dickerson models. In 1974, the Dickerson 40 was succeeded by the fiberglass Dickerson 41, marking a technological transition for the builder. While a specific named designer for the Dickerson 40 is not widely cited, its design is understood to be an evolution of Bill Dickerson's established, value-driven cruising boat designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dickerson 40 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat, offering a balance of stability and comfortable motion rather than outright speed. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.15, she is considered moderately powered, suggesting she performs well in a range of conditions but may not excel in very light airs. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.31 indicates a good degree of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively, contributing to her stable sailing characteristics. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 285.9 firmly places her in the category of a moderate to heavy cruiser, known for a comfortable ride through choppy waters rather than a light, agile feel. Owners and reviewers describe the Dickerson 40 as a reasonably stable and stiff vessel with good righting capability, making her a secure choice for cruising sailors. Her long keel hull type further contributes to a steady course-keeping ability and a forgiving motion in a seaway.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts for the Dickerson 40 are not extensively documented in widely available resources. However, consistent with Dickerson Boatbuilders' reputation for practical and well-appointed cruising yachts of its era, the Dickerson 40 would typically feature an interior designed for comfortable living aboard. As a 40-foot ketch, her accommodations would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Given the wooden strip-planked construction, the interior would have showcased extensive wood trim and finishes, contributing to a warm and traditional nautical aesthetic. Storage is generally ample on cruising boats of this size and vintage, often featuring lockers, shelves, and drawers throughout the cabin. While specific headroom figures are not available, Dickerson models were generally designed with comfortable living spaces for their length. Ventilation would typically be provided by opening ports and overhead hatches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Dickerson sailboats, including the 40, are known for their strong community and appreciation for the vessels' enduring qualities. The active Dickerson Owners Association serves as a hub for enthusiasts to share experiences and knowledge. Common praise for Dickerson yachts centers on their solid construction, traditional aesthetics, and comfortable motion in a seaway, attributes that are inherent to the Dickerson 40. While specific common problems for the Dickerson 40 are not widely detailed in public search results, discussions in forums, such as the Dickerson Maintenance Forum, often involve the upkeep and restoration of these classic wooden vessels, including aspects like cabin top repairs. This suggests that while routine maintenance for a wooden boat is expected, owners are dedicated to preserving their sturdy and valued cruisers.