Sun Odyssey 42 CC (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Sun Odyssey 42 CC was in production from 1996 to 1999, emerging during a significant period for Jeanneau, which had been acquired by Groupe Beneteau in 1995. The design, penned by Guy Ribadeau Dumas, shares its hull with the Sun Odyssey 42.2, emphasizing a proven and efficient underwater profile. Jeanneau's design philosophy during this era, post-acquisition, focused on creating "liveable boats" that harmoniously balanced performance with comfort, featuring clever layouts and thoughtful amenities. While the 42 CC primarily features a fixed bulb keel, a shallow keel option was also available for greater versatility in shallower waters. Notably, these boats do not employ interior fiberglass hull and deck liners for structural reinforcement, a design choice that reflects a particular construction approach.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Designed primarily as a cruiser, the Sun Odyssey 42 CC delivers a solid and dependable sailing experience rather than dazzling speed. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.45 indicates a boat that performs moderately well across a range of wind conditions, offering a balanced feel without being overtly geared for light-air performance. With a displacement to length ratio of around 229.27, she falls into the moderate displacement category, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway typical of a traditional cruiser. The ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.303, while not indicative of extreme stiffness, provides adequate stability for comfortable cruising.

Sailors generally find the 42 CC to be a capable and predictable performer, well-suited for leisurely cruising and liveaboard use. While some may not consider her to offer "sparkling sailing performance," her design nonetheless provides the necessary qualities for "performance cruising," especially with a deeper draft keel which can enhance upwind ability. The center cockpit configuration inherently provides a well-sheltered area for the crew, although some may find the cockpit to be somewhat cramped compared to larger center-cockpit designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42 CC is where her cruising intentions truly shine, prioritizing comfort and liveability. The center cockpit design allows for a generous aft cabin, a highly sought-after feature for cruising couples. The boat typically offers accommodation for four in two double cabins, with an additional berth often available in the saloon.

Stepping below, the interior boasts a warm and inviting atmosphere, characterized by extensive use of interior teak joinery and a classic teak and holly cabin sole. Owners can expect generous standing headroom throughout the main living areas, enhancing the sense of spaciousness. While specific layouts may vary slightly, the typical arrangement includes a comfortable saloon, a well-appointed galley, a forward V-berth cabin, and a dedicated head compartment. The design often features an unobstructed quarterdeck, making movement around the exterior practical and safe.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42 CC generally hold a positive view of their vessels, often praising the boat's design and overall conception as being somewhat "underrated." The emphasis on comfort and liveability is a recurring theme, aligning with the boat's primary purpose as a cruiser and potential liveaboard. While individual preferences regarding onboard amenities like freezers, air conditioning, generators, and televisions may differ, the core design provides a solid platform for customization. The robust construction and thoughtful layout are frequently cited as strengths, making the 42 CC a beloved choice for those valuing comfort and stability over outright racing performance.