Hylas 42 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Hylas 42 began its production run in 1985 and continued until 1990, representing one of the earlier models from Queen Long Marine under the Hylas brand. The design was penned by the renowned naval architect Germán Frers, who designed her to be fast, similar to his acclaimed Swan yachts. This design philosophy aimed to combine spirited performance with the inherent strength and seaworthiness expected of an offshore cruiser. During this era, Queen Long Marine, under the leadership of Joseph Huang, was establishing its reputation for building high-quality sailing yachts, primarily for the charter trade and later expanding to discerning private owners. The shipyard's ethos revolved around robust construction from fiberglass and equipping yachts with high-quality, name-brand gear.

While the primary model was a fin keel and spade rudder configuration, a shoal draft version was also available, drawing 6.21 feet compared to the standard 7.0 feet. This variation allowed for greater flexibility in cruising grounds. The Hylas 42 was built as an aft-cockpit design, a feature that distinguishes it from some later Hylas models which favored center cockpits. Only 22 units of the Hylas 42 were built, making it a relatively rare and sought-after vessel.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hylas 42's design ratios suggest a yacht capable of strong performance across various conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio (ratio_sa_disp) of approximately 18.8, she is well-powered for her size, indicating good light-air performance while still being manageable in stronger breezes. Her ballast to displacement ratio (ratio_bal_disp) of 0.50 signifies a stiff and stable yacht, capable of standing up to a considerable amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio contributes significantly to her offshore capabilities. The displacement to length ratio (ratio_disp_lwl) is approximately 298, placing her in the heavier, more traditional cruiser category, suggesting a solid and substantial feel at sea rather than a light-displacement racer.

Anecdotal reports suggest the Hylas 42 exhibits excellent sailing characteristics and handling. Owners have praised its design and sailing performance, with some noting that the boat is "much admired" and often mistaken for higher-end performance cruisers. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration provides responsive steering and good maneuverability. Designed by Germán Frers to be fast, similar to his Swans, the Hylas 42 is an offshore performance cruiser. Some owners, while appreciative of the boat's overall qualities, have noted that the companionway arrangement, which requires leaving the cockpit to access a near-vertical ladder, could be a point of concern, especially in colder conditions where a dodger is common.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior layout of the Hylas 42 is geared towards comfortable offshore living, though specific details beyond its overall length are not available in the provided data. Generally, Hylas yachts of this era are known for their custom-designed interiors, plentiful storage, and functional onboard experiences. Owners and reviews indicate that Hylas yachts feature well-appointed interiors with quality finishes, often incorporating a good deal of wood trim. The aft-cockpit configuration typically allows for a spacious aft cabin, a common feature in boats designed for extended cruising.

Based on typical layouts for a 42-foot aft-cockpit cruiser of its vintage, the Hylas 42 likely features a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a navigation station. The single head would typically be located either forward or amidships. Hylas's reputation for equipping yachts with "exquisite standard features" suggests that the interior would offer a high level of comfort and amenity for its time. Some examples of Hylas 42s listed for sale show features such as satellite TV, satellite telephone, and broadband satellite internet, indicating the capacity for modern upgrades and a focus on self-sufficiency for long voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hylas 42 generally hold their vessels in high regard, often highlighting their robust construction and offshore capabilities. Members of the Hylas Yacht Owners Association Forum frequently praise the 42, with one owner describing it as an "incredible boat" that is "much admired". The Hylas 42 is seen as a serious blue water cruising yacht, reflecting the brand's overall identity.

However, like any yacht of its age, some common areas for attention have been noted. One owner mentioned issues with the teak decking in the cockpit requiring replacement or repair. While not a systemic design flaw, owners considering a Hylas 42, particularly those in need of updating, should be prepared for potential projects such as testing for blistering, voids, or galvanic problems, which are common considerations for older fiberglass boats. The companionway arrangement, which some find less convenient due to its aft-cockpit and ladder access, is another point sometimes raised by owners. Despite these considerations, the strong and active Hylas owner community, supported by both an official Hylas Yacht Club and an unofficial Hylas Yacht Owners Association Forum, provides a valuable resource for support and shared experiences. This community underscores the deep loyalty and satisfaction among Hylas owners.