Sun Fizz 40 (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Sun Fizz 40 in 1980 by Jeanneau marked a continuation of the shipyard's strong presence in the sailboat market, which had been firmly established with earlier successes like the Sangria. During this era, Jeanneau, under the ownership of United States-based Bangor Punta for a period, was known for embracing new technologies, including the early adoption of fiberglass construction which defined its production methods since the late 1950s. Philippe Briand, a pivotal designer for Jeanneau since 1977, was tasked with creating a cruiser that offered strong performance, with its "flat hull" design intended to excel in both coastal and offshore conditions. 5, 9, builder article

Notably, the Sun Fizz 40 also had a presence in the North American market under a licensing agreement. Approximately 120 Sun Fizz yachts were built for the US as the O'Day 39. This model later underwent a redesign by Hunt & Associates, which included an extended "sugar scoop" stern and a revised interior layout, and was subsequently marketed as the O'Day 40., 4, 21]

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 40 feet and a waterline length of 33.5 feet, the Sun Fizz 40 is categorized as a medium-light displacement vessel with a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 191. This ratio suggests a good balance between speed and a comfortable motion through the water. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of roughly 16.7 indicates a moderate sail plan, allowing for balanced performance in various wind conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy gusts.

The yacht's ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.41 is quite healthy, signifying a stiff and stable boat capable of standing up to a good breeze. Owners frequently describe the Sun Fizz 40 as performing well under sail, being "quite fast, and a joy to sail." Its design is noted for easy handling and performance, with some owners praising its ability to "turn on a dime." The spacious and comfortable cockpit further enhances the sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom dimensions are not consistently available, the Sun Fizz 40 is recognized for its "spacious interior with a lot of stowage space" and ample headroom. The design emphasizes "nice accommodations" and clever, "liveable" layouts, a hallmark of Jeanneau's design philosophy during its production.

Typical interior arrangements often feature a well-sized chart table and provide a comfortable environment for extended cruising. Some configurations are described as "tri-cabin," hinting at versatile sleeping arrangements suitable for families or multiple guests. Information from owner forums indicates that some yachts may have undergone interior modifications or redone layouts over the years, suggesting a flexible internal structure. The emphasis on comfort and livability ensures that the Sun Fizz 40 provides a pleasant retreat after a day on the water.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Fizz 40 generally hold their vessels in high regard, often describing them as "strongly built" and not prone to structural issues. The boat is consistently praised for its solid construction and often described as being "built like a tank." Many appreciate its performance, noting it is "quite fast" and a "joy to sail," offering a satisfying balance between speed and cruising comfort.

However, like any vessel of its age, some common maintenance points have been noted. Recurring discussions among owners include issues with "sticky rudder bearings" which may require attention. While not exclusive to Jeanneau, concerns about the condition of fuel or water tanks have been mentioned across various brands of this era, and potential keel issues have also surfaced in owner forums. Despite these potential maintenance items, the collective viewpoint underscores the Sun Fizz 40's reputation as a robust and capable cruiser that continues to provide enjoyment for its owners.