Irwin 40 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Irwin 40 Mk II emerged from Irwin Yachts' production lines starting in 1980. Designed by the legendary Ted Irwin, the boat reflects his characteristic dual design philosophy: crafting vessels that appeal to both the performance-oriented sailor and those prioritizing comfort for cruising or charter. The "Citation" designation, often associated with this model, hints at an intention to combine comfort with speed. Irwin Yachts, under Ted Irwin's guidance, was known for its fiberglass construction and a focus on practical, livable boats for cruising and liveaboard lifestyles, even while producing successful racing designs.

During its production, the Irwin 40 Mk II was available with several keel configurations to suit diverse sailing grounds. Beyond the standard deep fin keel, variations included a shoal draft version with a 4.25-foot draft and 7,000 lbs of ballast, and a keel/centerboard option offering a draft range from 4.25 feet (board up) to 9.5 feet (board down), also with 7,000 lbs of ballast. These options demonstrated Irwin's responsiveness to market needs, providing flexibility for those navigating shallower waters or seeking enhanced upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 40 feet and a waterline length of 31.17 feet, the Irwin 40 Mk II is a moderately proportioned vessel designed for a balanced sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 17.85 suggests a sailboat with moderate light-air performance, capable of moving well in a breeze without being overly sensitive or demanding to sail.

The boat's Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 38.5% indicates a good level of stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling. This contributes to a comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 249 classifies the Irwin 40 Mk II as a moderate displacement cruiser, striking a balance between the lighter, more agile performance boats and heavier, more traditional offshore cruisers. Owners and reviewers describe the Irwin 40 Mk II as a "moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer" and note its stability and "good righting capability". This combination makes for a confidence-inspiring vessel suitable for coastal cruising and offshore passages alike.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Irwin 40 Mk II is designed for spaciousness and comfort, reflecting the builder's focus on livability. Descriptions often highlight a "spacious white interior" with "generous use of teak" throughout, creating a classic and inviting atmosphere. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, Irwin designs of this era generally aimed for comfortable standing room in the main salon.

Typical layouts for a vessel of this size and era would include a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that often convert into berths, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage is usually ample, catering to the needs of cruisers, and good ventilation is provided through multiple hatches and ports. The emphasis on practical layouts for genuine two-cabin cruising was a hallmark of Irwin's design philosophy, seen in similar models like the Irwin 37.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Irwin 40 Mk II, and Irwin yachts in general, often form active and supportive online communities. These forums and groups serve as valuable resources for sharing experiences, advice, and support, highlighting the enduring appeal and practicality of these boats. Owners frequently praise the solid construction and comfortable motion of Irwin vessels, making them popular choices for those seeking reliable cruising sailboats.

While generally well-regarded, like any older vessel, some Irwin owners discuss common maintenance considerations. Some discussions in owner forums allude to the need for structural assessments on older vessels and general inquiries about characteristic problems in the 40-foot range. However, the continued loyalty of Irwin owners is a testament to the lasting impact of Ted Irwin's vision on the sailing world, making these boats attractive options for those seeking a well-designed cruiser that offers comfort and capability at an accessible price point.