Kettenburg 41 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Kettenburg 41 unfolded during a period of transition for Kettenburg Boats. While the company had built its reputation on exquisite wooden yachts like the PC and PCC classes, the mid-1960s saw the marine industry increasingly embrace fiberglass technology. The K41, which began production in 1966 and continued until 1969, was among Kettenburg's early fiberglass models. Paul Kettenburg, continuing the family's design legacy, is credited as the naval architect for the K41. The design intent aimed for a "significantly more speedy hull design" compared to some contemporaries, indicating a focus on performance within the cruising yacht segment. The hulls for these fiberglass models, including the K41, were molded by external contractors, while Kettenburg leveraged its expertise in finishing and construction. The first K41, initially named "Tomboy V" and later "ELIXIR," was notably owned by Paul Kettenburg himself, underscoring his personal connection to the design. Charles Underwood, Vice President at Kettenburg, also played a role in overseeing the design and construction of the fiberglass K41, highlighting a collaborative effort during this pivotal shift in materials.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kettenburg 41 was designed with a keen eye on sailing characteristics, reflecting Paul Kettenburg's ambition for a speedy hull. With a total calculated sail area of approximately 626 square feet and a displacement of 15,000 pounds, its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 16.43 suggests a boat with moderate performance in lighter winds, capable of moving well without being overly tender. The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.33, derived from 5,000 pounds of lead ballast, indicates a moderately stiff and stable vessel, providing a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing too much righting moment. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 322 positions the K41 as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and a solid feel over extreme light-displacement performance. Anecdotal evidence from the era suggests Kettenburg designs, including the 41, were considered "gorgeous marine designs" with "excellent total" characteristics, implying a well-balanced and pleasing sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Kettenburg 41 are not extensively documented in broad public reviews, the design ethos of Kettenburg Boats generally favored family-friendly usability and comfortable accommodations. As a 41-foot masthead sloop, the K41 would typically feature a traditional interior layout for cruising yachts of its era. This would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a galley, and a head compartment. The builder's reputation for quality craftsmanship, even during the transition to fiberglass, suggests a well-finished interior, likely incorporating wood trim to maintain a classic aesthetic. The boat is equipped with a fresh water capacity of 35 gallons, indicating provision for extended cruising.