Moody 42 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody 42 entered production in 1977, building upon Moody's established expertise in crafting durable cruising yachts. The design came from the pen of Angus Primrose, a key designer who shaped many of Moody's successful production cruisers during that era. During this period, Moody Yachts, having transitioned from traditional timber to GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction, was focused on delivering vessels known for their construction quality and inherent seaworthiness, a philosophy consistently upheld since its founding in 1827. The builder's ethos prioritized safety, comfort, and robust construction, aiming to create reliable bluewater cruisers capable of handling challenging sea conditions.

The Moody 42 was offered with both aft cockpit and center cockpit configurations, providing options for different cruising preferences. A notable variation, the MkII version, included an additional inside steering station, further enhancing its suitability for extended cruising in varying climates. A total of 54 units of the Moody 42 were built during its production run, which concluded in 1981.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody 42 was designed with long-distance cruising in mind, prioritizing stability and comfort over outright speed. With a displacement of 24,200 lbs and a length overall of 41.79 feet, she possesses a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 257, indicating a robust, heavier displacement hull form well-suited to handling a seaway. This robust build contributes to her solid construction and simply but stoutly rigged ketch configuration.

Her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 14.53 suggests that the Moody 42 is not primarily a light-air performer and may require more wind to achieve optimal speeds. However, what she may lack in light-air prowess, she makes up for in stability and ease of handling in more significant conditions. While her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio stands at approximately 27.27%, a testament to her solid construction is found in owner and reviewer comments that describe her as an "easy and satisfying yacht to sail." She is known for being a very stable vessel, a characteristic appreciated by those embarking on extended voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

The Moody 42 is renowned for her generous interior volume, offering spacious accommodations that contribute significantly to her appeal as a cruising yacht. The hull's substantial beam of 13.33 feet, combined with the design philosophy, allowed for a layout focused on liveability and comfort. The foredeck is described as flat and uncluttered, facilitating ease of movement and access.

While specific headroom details are not available in the provided data, reviews consistently highlight the overall spaciousness below deck. Typical interior arrangements generally include a comfortable V-berth forward, a well-appointed head, a generous main saloon for dining and lounging, a functional galley, and often a private aft cabin, especially in the popular center cockpit versions. Owners frequently appreciate the thoughtful internal layout of the Moody 42. The traditional joinery and sturdy finishes characteristic of Moody yachts from this era would have contributed to a warm and practical living space, further cementing her reputation as a comfortable cruising platform.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody 42 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. The yacht's ability to handle challenging conditions with a comfortable motion is a frequently cited strength, aligning with Moody's design philosophy of building reliable bluewater cruisers. Owners often note the generous interior volume as a significant advantage, making the boat suitable for extended periods aboard with family or friends.

Like any vessel of its age, some common maintenance issues may arise. Discussions among owners on forums, such as the Moody Owners Information Exchange, sometimes touch on topics like potential issues with original deck fittings or in-mast furling systems, though individual experiences vary. However, the prevailing sentiment among the Moody community is that the 42 offers considerable value as a robust, capable, and comfortable cruising yacht, often described as "a lot of good boat for the money." The enduring popularity and active owner community underscore the lasting appeal and trusted quality of the Moody 42.