Swift 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Swift 40 was in production from 1979 to 1984. Its design, S&S #2134.2, is a testament to the prolific and influential work of Sparkman & Stephens, a firm renowned for its blend of performance and seaworthiness across a wide range of yachts. Olin Stephens, the design maestro behind the firm, emphasized the purity of "lines" in his most important designs, a philosophy that likely informed the Swift 40's robust hull form.

The Korean builder, Kang Nam Shipbuilders, embarked on its shipbuilding journey in 1969, making an early commitment to modern fiberglass (GRP) construction. The company established its GRP Division in 1968 and secured a GRP Shipbuilding Licence in 1972, laying the groundwork for its expansion into various vessel types, including recreational yachts like the Swift 40. During this period, Kang Nam Shipbuilders was even nominated by the South Korean government as an exporter of yacht production. However, the company's strategic focus later shifted towards specialized naval and commercial vessels, a sector it primarily serves today.

Notably, the Swift 40 shares its foundational hull design with other boats, including the North Star 80/20 and the Hughes 40. The Hughes 40, in particular, was a heavier iteration of the same design, while the North Star 80/20 was configured as an aft-cabin, center-cockpit cruising yacht, demonstrating the versatility of the Sparkman & Stephens hull. The Swift 40 was reportedly built to Lloyds of London standards, underscoring a commitment to structural integrity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 24,300 lbs and a length overall of 39.12 feet, the Swift 40 is a heavy sailboat, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway. Its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 364 indicates a very heavy displacement vessel, characteristic of solid, traditional cruisers designed for stability rather than outright speed. The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration for cruisers of its era, balancing good directional stability with reasonable maneuverability.

The sail area to displacement ratio, around 15.01, suggests the Swift 40 is moderately powered, meaning it is not a light-air speedster but should perform adequately once the wind fills in. Some sources describe it as "slightly under powered," which aligns with its heavy displacement. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.367, coupled with its overall heavy build, contributes to its reported stability and good righting capability. Owners have noted that the Swift 40 is capable of maintaining its track effectively, suggesting good directional stability, potentially allowing for easy steering even without an autopilot. This combination of design characteristics points to a steady, dependable cruiser well-suited for comfortable passage-making.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Swift 40 are not extensively documented in widely available public resources, a vessel of its nearly 40-foot length and substantial beam (13.33 ft) typically offers generous interior volume for a cruising boat of its vintage. Cruisers from this era often featured traditional arrangements designed for liveability and extended stays aboard. Common layouts would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a U-shaped or linear galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Depending on the specific configuration, quarter berths or an aft cabin might also be present. The solid fiberglass hull construction would likely contribute to a dry and well-insulated interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Swift 40 consistently highlight its robust construction and stable characteristics. The fact that the boat was built to Lloyds of London standards often reassures potential buyers about its underlying integrity. Anecdotal evidence suggests the boat holds its course well, indicating a balanced helm and solid sea-keeping abilities that contribute to comfortable cruising. While specific common issues or widespread accolades beyond its general robust nature are not widely publicized, the enduring presence of these vessels suggests a foundational quality appreciated by their owners. Some discussions among owners of related S&S designs, such as the Hughes 40, corroborate the perception of these designs as "heavy" and well-built.