Endeavour 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Endeavour 40 entered production in 1981, marking a new chapter for Endeavour Yacht Corporation, which had been founded in 1974 by John Brooks and Rob Valdes. The company, initially known for sturdy "Florida boats" with shoal drafts and moderate hulls, aimed to address increasing market demand for more performance-oriented designs and updated construction methods. Robert K. Johnson completed the design work for the Endeavour 40 in 1979, with tooling commencing soon after. During this period, Endeavour transitioned construction methods, moving from earlier plywood coring to incorporating Klegecell closed-cell polyvinyl foam coring and a "multi-axial steel reinforced 'force grid' bonded to the hull for stiffness" in their updated models. The Endeavour 40's production run concluded in 1985, with approximately 185 units built, reflecting its success as a versatile cruising yacht. Notably, the Endeavour 40 was offered with several rig configurations, including sloop, cutter, and ketch options, providing flexibility for different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 40 is characterized by a design that prioritizes stability and comfortable motion over outright speed. With a calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 14.7, she is classified as a heavy displacement cruiser, suggesting that while not a light-air flyer, she will likely perform best in moderate to strong winds. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of 36% indicates a respectable level of stiffness, enabling her to stand up to a good breeze and provide a stable ride. The displacement-to-length ratio, a significant 340.6, further confirms her heavy-duty cruising pedigree, meaning she will power through choppy conditions with a deliberate, comfortable motion rather than bouncing over them.

Anecdotal accounts from owners corroborate these characteristics, often describing the Endeavour 40 as a "homey boat, not fast by any stretch," but one that proves "far tougher than we are" in rough seas. Equipped with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the Endeavour 40 offers predictable handling and good directional stability, making her well-suited for extended passages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Endeavour 40 is designed for comfortable living aboard, featuring a generous maximum headroom of 6.33 feet. The layout typically includes two cabins and two heads, arranged in a center cockpit configuration that is particularly appealing to cruisers. This design allows for a large aft cabin, enhancing privacy and comfort, and provides a secure, drier helm position.

The interior finish prominently features varnished teak with soft white overheads, contributing to a warm and traditional aesthetic. The main mast is stepped through the cabin roof onto the keel, providing solid support. While specific storage details vary, the overall design emphasizes functionality and livability for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Endeavour 40 frequently praise its robust construction and its ability to handle challenging sea conditions with confidence. The boat's solid build quality is a recurring theme, instilling a sense of security for those undertaking offshore voyages. However, like many vessels of its age, certain maintenance items are commonly noted. Recurring issues include the potential for original deck fittings to develop leaks, which may require re-bedding, and attention to fuel and water tanks as they age. Despite these common maintenance considerations, a strong community of Endeavour owners persists, actively sharing knowledge and support through online forums, a testament to the enduring appeal and reliability of these classic cruising yachts.