Irwin 41 Citation Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Irwin 41 Citation is firmly rooted in Ted Irwin's racing pedigree. First built in 1982, the design was directly based on the custom racing yacht "Razzle Dazzle," which had achieved success in the highly competitive SORC circuit that same year. This direct lineage underscores Irwin's intent for the Citation series to be a line of performance-focused sailboats. During this period, Irwin Yachts, established in 1966, was a significant American sailboat manufacturer, predominantly utilizing fiberglass construction for its vessels. Despite a history marked by corporate fluctuations, the company consistently produced a wide range of boats, from comfortable cruisers to capable racers, embodying Ted Irwin's diverse design philosophy. The Irwin 41 Citation, however, was a boat of extremely limited production, with only four units ever built, making it a rare and distinct offering within the Irwin fleet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 41 Citation's design characteristics translate into a clear emphasis on sailing performance. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.54, she possesses a significant amount of ballast relative to her overall weight, indicating a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to considerable wind. This high stability contributes to a powerful sailing experience, allowing her to carry sail effectively. Her sail area to displacement ratio of about 18.68 suggests strong light-air performance, enabling her to accelerate and maintain speed even in lighter breezes. Furthermore, a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 212 indicates a moderately weighted vessel. This combination positions the Irwin 41 Citation as a performance-oriented cruiser-racer, designed to be agile and responsive. The boat features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration typical of performance designs, providing excellent hydrodynamic efficiency and precise control. While specific anecdotal handling descriptions for this rare model are scarce, the design's racing pedigree and calculated ratios strongly imply a nimble and rewarding sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing inclinations, the Irwin 41 Citation was designed with a thoughtful interior that aims to maximize available space, a common characteristic across Irwin's broader range. While exact layouts for the limited-production Citation are not widely detailed, interiors of similar Irwin models and the general design trends of the era suggest a practical arrangement suitable for weekend racing or performance cruising. Descriptions indicate interiors with wooden accents and integrated storage shelves, reflecting the craftsmanship common to boats of its time. Typically, a boat of this size from Irwin would feature a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and a head compartment, providing essential amenities for a crew. The design focuses on functionality and comfort within the constraints of a performance hull, offering livable spaces without sacrificing the boat's primary purpose.