Endeavour 42 Information, Review, Specs

The Endeavour 42's creation in 1985 marked a pivotal moment for Endeavour Yacht Corporation, as the company responded to market demands for more performance-oriented designs and updated construction methods, particularly catering to the burgeoning charter market and cruising families. America's Cup designer Johan Valentijn was specifically commissioned to develop models like the Endeavour 42, reflecting a deliberate shift towards vessels prioritizing ease of handling, offshore capability, taller rigs, and inboard chainplates.

During this period, Endeavour transitioned its construction techniques. While earlier models sometimes used plywood for coring, the updated Endeavours, including the 42, incorporated Klegecell closed-cell polyvinyl foam coring in some areas, along with a "multi-axial steel reinforced 'force grid' bonded to the hull for stiffness." Later in the production run, the company evolved again, returning to end-grain balsa in sheer-to-waterline areas and plywood for through-bolted hardware, complemented by a structural grid system built from triaxial fiberglass encapsulated urethane foam. The Endeavour 42 was notably a center-cockpit design, a layout that became a signature element of later Endeavour yachts.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 42's design ratios provide insight into its intended sailing characteristics. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.30, she falls into the moderate performance category for a cruising boat. This suggests she'll enjoy a good breeze, though in lighter winds, many cruisers opt to motorsail or can achieve decent progress under a full genoa alone. Her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of 0.36 indicates a moderately stable vessel, capable of standing up to a reasonable amount of wind without excessive heel. A displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 301.37 places her firmly in the heavier cruiser category, implying a comfortable motion in a seaway, well-suited for offshore passages. The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to its directional stability and protected steering. While some owners have noted a tendency for weather helm, it is generally considered manageable and can be eased with proper sail trim.

Accommodations and Layout

The Endeavour 42 is highly regarded for its spacious and comfortable accommodations, making it suitable for both weekend excursions and long-term liveaboard cruising. A key feature is its walk-through center-cockpit design, which allows direct access to the generous aft cabin without needing to go on deck. This arrangement enhances privacy and provides a more secure and drier helm position.

The interior is predominantly constructed with wood, giving it a classic marine feel, and features pan liners in the two heads for easy maintenance. While specific headroom figures vary by review, the overall impression is one of ample space. The main saloon often offers options for either a round or rectangular drop-leaf table, providing flexibility in the living area. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dinette, a well-appointed galley, and a substantial aft cabin, often with an ensuite head, capitalizing on the center-cockpit configuration. Overall, the emphasis is on maximizing comfort, storage, and liveability for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Endeavour 42 consistently praise its robust construction and spacious interior, making it a popular choice for liveaboards and long-distance cruisers. Many appreciate the comfortable motion in a seaway, a testament to its design as a heavy, offshore-capable cruiser. The walk-through center cockpit layout is frequently highlighted as a significant advantage, providing excellent privacy for the aft cabin and a secure helm.

However, a frequently cited concern among owners relates to the original aluminum fuel tanks, which are located in the keel beneath the engine. These tanks have a known propensity to fail due to corrosion caused by condensation and water exposure, often requiring costly replacement. Other reported issues, though generally less severe, include typical maintenance items like replacing aging hoses and addressing frozen seacocks. Despite these potential maintenance challenges, the strong community of Endeavour owners often shares solutions and support, underscoring the enduring appeal and fundamental soundness of the Endeavour 42.