Irwin 40 Citation Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Irwin 40 Citation began its production run in 1978. Designed by company founder Ted Irwin, the Citation series, including the 40-footer, was specifically envisioned as a "racer/cruiser class of boats," aiming to offer a harmonious blend of performance and comfort. This aligns with Ted Irwin's broader design philosophy, which encompassed both successful racing yachts and comfortable family cruisers, reflecting his personal interest in competitive sailing alongside the demand for practical cruising vessels. During the late 1970s, Irwin Yachts, a prominent fiberglass sailboat producer in the United States, was known for its diverse range of models catering to various segments of the sailing community.

The Irwin 40 Citation was available with variations in keel configuration. While a fixed fin keel version with a maximum draft of 6.3 feet was produced, other options included a shoal draft fixed keel around 4.39 feet, and a keel/centerboard version with a board-up draft of 4.25 feet and a board-down draft of 7.0 feet. There was also an "Irwin 40 Citation Mk II" model, suggesting updates or different iterations during its production. The hull was constructed from solid fiberglass, a common and durable material for its time.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 40 Citation is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers good performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.9, the Irwin 40 Citation is well-powered, suggesting a boat that can perform capably in lighter air conditions while still handling heavier breezes efficiently. Its displacement-to-length ratio of around 249 places it firmly in the category of a moderate cruiser, indicating a balance between light-air speed and robust construction for offshore comfort.

The boat exhibits notable stability and stiffness, attributed to a high ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 41.4%. This substantial ballast ratio contributes to the boat's ability to stand up to wind and maintain a more level attitude, enhancing comfort and control in a seaway and providing good righting capability. Anecdotal accounts suggest the Citation series, including the 40, are generally well-regarded for their handling, embodying the appeal of older-style boats in both their performance and aesthetics.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the interior layout from the provided data are limited to a general maximum headroom, the Irwin 40 Citation was designed with spaciousness and comfort in mind, typical of Ted Irwin's cruising designs. Reviews and owner descriptions indicate a generous use of teak throughout the interior, creating a warm and traditional aesthetic against white bulkheads.

Typical interior arrangements likely featured a comfortable V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that often convert into berths, a galley equipped for cruising, and a dedicated head compartment. Some models offered custom additions such as innerspring mattresses in the V-berth and custom bookcases, highlighting the boat's suitability for extended stays and liveaboard potential. With a water capacity of 90 gallons and a fuel capacity of 40 gallons, the Irwin 40 Citation was equipped for self-sufficiency on longer voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Irwin 40 Citations frequently praise the boat's overall performance and aesthetic appeal, often receiving compliments on its classic lines. The design's emphasis on comfort and capability at an accessible price point has contributed to its enduring popularity in the used boat market. The robust construction, a hallmark of Irwin's design philosophy, often translates into a comfortable motion in a seaway and a stable platform under sail.

However, some owners of Citation models have noted potential areas requiring attention in older boats. Recurring issues can include the original deck fittings developing leaks, which may necessitate re-bedding. While not specific to the 40, some general comments within the broader Irwin Citation series suggest that while capable, they might not be considered as "rugged" in construction as some other bluewater designs of the era, though this perspective can vary among owners. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, a strong online community of Irwin owners continues to provide support and shared experiences, underscoring the lasting appeal and practical nature of these vessels for cruising enthusiasts.