Gulfstar 40 Sailmaster Information, Review, Specs

The Gulfstar 40 Sailmaster began production in 1980, with approximately 10 units built. It shares its hull with the earlier Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster, but distinguishes itself with a center cockpit configuration. This particular model was notably built for 'The Moorings' charter company, emphasizing its design for liveability and ease of handling in a cruising context. It is also known by other names, including Gulfstar 40 CC and Sailmaster 40.

Vince Lazzara, a pioneer in fiberglass boat construction, along with his son Richard, were the primary designers for Gulfstar. Their philosophy aimed at creating comfortable and accessible cruising vessels. While early Gulfstar models sometimes faced scrutiny regarding workmanship, with interiors featuring materials like Formica and ballast consisting of iron in a concrete slurry, later designs, including those from the era of the 40 Sailmaster, adopted a more "balanced approach." This evolution led to improvements in both construction and performance, with Gulfstar boats becoming recognized for being capable upwind for cruising purposes. The company adapted its designs as consumer tastes shifted towards more performance-oriented yachts from earlier motor-sailers. While the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster saw a MkII version in 1982 with an aft quarter berth, the 40 Sailmaster's center cockpit layout inherently defined its aft accommodation.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gulfstar 40 Sailmaster, with a reported sail area of 705 square feet, a displacement of 20,000 pounds, and a waterline length of 32.5 feet, exhibits characteristics of a comfortable and stable cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.27 suggests moderate performance, indicating that while it may not excel in very light air, it is well-suited for moderate to heavy wind conditions, offering a manageable and forgiving sailing experience.

A significant aspect of its design is its high Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.425. This substantial ballast contributes to the boat's stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up well to wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 260.29 further categorizes it as a heavier cruising vessel. This weight class generally translates to a more stable and less skittish ride, particularly in rougher seas, prioritizing comfort and solidity over outright speed. Given its shared hull with the Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster, owners of which have reported "easy sailhandling," the 40 Sailmaster likely offers similar predictable and docile characteristics under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite limited specifics in the structured data, the Gulfstar 40 Sailmaster's center cockpit design strongly implies a well-segregated interior layout, typically featuring a spacious main salon forward of the cockpit and a dedicated aft cabin accessible from the cockpit or through a walkthrough. The original Gulfstar 39 Sailmaster, sharing the same hull, was noted for its "single stateroom interior layout" which, though controversial to some at its introduction in 1981, also garnered praise for its "unusual, innovative" design and "outstanding interior space" for its size. This suggests that the interior prioritizes communal living space and a generous primary stateroom, likely the aft cabin in the 40 Sailmaster's center cockpit configuration. Information suggests a focus on practical cruising characteristics and comfort, fitting for its intended charter use.

Based on general Gulfstar characteristics of the era, the interior likely features a blend of wood trim and fiberglass, emphasizing durability and ease of maintenance suitable for a cruising or charter vessel. Common observations regarding Gulfstar models from this period include issues with leaks around doghouse windows and portholes, which owners may need to address for optimal comfort and dryness.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Gulfstar vessels often praise their solid construction, which makes them viable "bluewater boats" for those seeking an affordable entry into long-distance cruising. The substantial displacement and ballast of the 40 Sailmaster contribute to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a frequently appreciated attribute among cruisers. However, a commonly cited issue among owners of similar Gulfstar designs is the tendency for leaks around original deck fittings, particularly doghouse windows and portholes, which often require re-bedding as part of routine maintenance. While older models may necessitate updates, the enduring appeal of these yachts decades after their original construction is a testament to the lasting designs and their suitability as classic cruising platforms.