Hutting 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The lineage of the Hutting 40 began with its initial launch in 1989, though the model has seen continuous refinement and production into the 2000s, reflecting Hutting Yachts' commitment to ongoing development. Dick Koopmans Sr., known for his designs of stout, go-anywhere yachts, partnered with Tjerk Hutting, whose passion for yacht building began with crafting dinghies at a young age, to conceive a vessel built for the absolute heaviest conditions during world travels.

Hutting Yachts, founded in 1975, has consistently emphasized craftsmanship, quality, and versatility, becoming specialists in building custom-built aluminum sailing yachts. The choice of aluminum, and sometimes steel, for the hull material underscores their dedication to extreme seaworthiness and durability, a hallmark of the Hutting brand. The Hutting 40, a long keel monohull, aligns perfectly with this philosophy, offering a secure and stable platform for ambitious sailors. Over its production run, variations in hull material (steel or aluminum) and possibly cockpit configurations, such as the center cockpit design, have been noted, though all maintain the core design principles of robustness and seaworthiness, 2].

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 677 square feet and a displacement of 29,542 pounds, the Hutting 40 exhibits characteristics of a powerful, heavy-displacement cruiser. Its Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 11.3 suggests that while she may not be a spirited performer in very light airs, she carries her sail well and builds momentum steadily. The substantial Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D) of around 0.507 is exceptionally high, indicating a profoundly stiff and stable yacht capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio, combined with a long keel, provides excellent directional stability and a comfortable motion offshore.

The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 366.1 places the Hutting 40 firmly in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser. This weight contributes to her renowned solidity and ability to handle challenging waves with confidence, offering an "unexpected feeling of safety in a stormy sea," as one owner remarked. Owners consistently praise her superb sailing characteristics and overall stability, highlighting her design as being robust and sailor-friendly, even for single-handed long-distance voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Hutting 40 is designed with long-distance comfort and safety in mind. While the specific layout can be customized by owners, as Hutting Yachts offers semi-custom builds with a selection of wood and materials, certain features are typical. The yacht generally boasts generous headroom, ranging from 1.95 meters to 2 meters (approximately 6.4 to 6.6 feet) throughout, contributing to an open and airy feel below deck.

Typical accommodations include two guest cabins, often featuring a double berth to the side and aft. The cockpit is ergonomically designed and well-equipped for extended cruising, providing a secure and comfortable space even in adverse conditions. Consistent with Hutting Yachts' reputation, the interior finish is of high quality, likely featuring the meticulous woodwork, such as teak and nutwood paneling, for which the builder is known. This attention to detail extends to robust construction both inside and out, ensuring durability and a timeless aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hutting 40 frequently commend its build quality and exceptional seaworthiness. A recurring theme in owner feedback is the profound sense of safety and confidence the boat instills, particularly when faced with rough seas. The robust aluminum or steel hull, coupled with the deep, protective cockpit, contributes significantly to this feeling. Owners appreciate the yacht's ability to undertake extensive voyages, with many Hutting 40s having completed circumnavigations, underscoring their reliability and suitability as true world cruisers. The ability to customize the interior layout and finishes is also highly valued, allowing owners to tailor the yacht to their specific cruising needs and preferences. One owner eloquently described their Hutting 40 as "the finest dream a man can make in a lifetime," reflecting deep satisfaction with the vessel's capabilities and comfort. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the emphasis on robust construction and attention to detail by Hutting Yachts suggests a reputation for reliability and longevity, making them a valued choice among discerning long-distance sailors.