Hinckley 42 Competition Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Hinckley 42 Competition in 1982 marked a strategic evolution within Hinckley's storied lineup, leveraging the proven hull of the Sou'wester 42/43. The design by McCurdy & Rhodes aimed to infuse a performance edge into Hinckley's traditional cruising ethos, appealing to owners who desired both the brand's legendary quality and a more engaging sailing experience. This development aligned with Hinckley's broader history of innovation, particularly their pioneering adoption of fiberglass as a primary boatbuilding material, which began with the iconic Bermuda 40 in 1959. During the era of the 42 Competition's production, Hinckley Yachts, founded by Henry R. Hinckley in Southwest Harbor, Maine, was already well-established for its unwavering commitment to exquisite craftsmanship, strength, and durability, characteristics evident in the solid fiberglass hull and deck construction of the 42 Competition. While the core Sou'wester 42/43 design saw variations, including a yawl rig and an MKII version, the 42 Competition specifically emerged as a dedicated racing variant, distinguishing itself within the Hinckley fleet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 42 feet and a waterline length of 32 feet, the Hinckley 42 Competition is designed for capable performance on the water. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.18 suggests a yacht that possesses good power, indicating a spirited performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, where she should be capable of moving well. The boat's displacement to length ratio of around 292.9 classifies her as a moderately heavy displacement vessel, typical of a well-built cruiser from her era, offering a comfortable motion through a seaway rather than a lightweight, skittish ride.

Despite her cruiser-racer lineage, the Hinckley 42 Competition also benefits from a robust ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.395, derived from an estimated ballast of 8,500 lbs. This high ratio contributes significantly to her stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a breeze and carry her sail area effectively without excessive heel. Her deep 7.3-foot fin keel and spade rudder provide excellent lateral resistance and control, contributing to what owners describe as "impeccable" sailing manners and steering characteristics that actively discourage unpleasantness. The masthead sloop rig provides a generous and easily managed sail plan, further enhancing her performance capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hinckley 42 Competition is designed to offer comfortable and traditional accommodations, reflecting Hinckley's reputation for quality interiors. The layout typically provides sleeping for up to seven individuals, featuring two private staterooms alongside convertible berths in the main salon. Interiors are commonly crafted with rich mahogany wood, showcasing the builder's dedication to a classic yachting aesthetic and a high standard of finish.

The main salon usually features a U-shaped galley positioned aft to port, equipped with functional countertops and ample storage, sometimes including custom features like a through-counter knife rack. Owners often appreciate the thoughtful arrangement and solid construction of the interior spaces. While specific headroom figures are not always readily available, Hinckley designs generally prioritize comfortable living spaces for their class. Ventilation and natural light are typically managed through deck hatches and portlights, common on yachts of this size and vintage. Some configurations also feature a practical dinette/quarter berth arrangement, optimizing space for both dining and additional sleeping capacity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hinckley 42 Competition, and its close cousin the Sou'wester 42, consistently praise the boat for its exceptional construction quality and robust offshore capabilities. Many consider them to be among the finest offshore boats available, highlighting their ability to handle demanding marine environments with confidence. The solid build and sailing characteristics are frequently lauded, with owners describing the boat's "impeccable" manners underway.

While the Hinckley 42 Competition is a highly regarded vessel, owners note that maintaining such a high-quality yacht is not inexpensive, reflecting the investment required to keep a boat of this caliber in top condition. However, this cost is generally accepted as commensurate with the boat's enduring value and performance. Some owners have also found the design amenable to modifications for single-handed sailing, particularly when equipped with appropriate autopilot systems and electric winches. The community of Hinckley owners often speaks to the longevity and enduring appeal of these vessels, a testament to their initial build quality and timeless design.