Motiva 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Motiva 40's genesis can be traced back to the late 1970s, with production commencing in 1982, aligning with Motiva Yachts' early establishment. Motiva Yachts, operating from Lunderskov, Denmark, has consistently maintained a steadfast focus on constructing durable steel sailing yachts, a material prized for its strength, safety, and inherent suitability for long-distance cruising. The Motiva 40 embodies this foundational principle, featuring a heavy-duty steel hull built to withstand the rigors of ocean passages. While many Motiva yachts benefited from the high-standard interior fit-outs at the Tony Dahl Yard, it is noteworthy that some Motiva 40 hulls were also sold for owner-completed fit-outs, allowing for a degree of customization but potentially leading to variations in interior finish and layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Motiva 40 is characterized by its substantial displacement and conservative sail plan, indicative of its primary role as a heavy bluewater cruising boat. With a reported sail area of 645 square feet and a displacement of 26,455 pounds, her Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio is approximately 11.6. This relatively low ratio suggests that while she may not excel in light air performance, she is exceptionally stable and forgiving in stronger winds, prioritizing comfort and control over outright speed.

Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 37.5% (9,921 lbs of lead ballast against 26,455 lbs displacement), contributes significantly to her stiffness and ability to carry sail in a breeze. This, combined with a very high Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 403 (calculated based on her 30.84 ft waterline), firmly places the Motiva 40 in the category of heavy displacement cruisers. Such a design indicates a vessel built for comfort, load-carrying capacity, and exceptional seakeeping abilities rather than agile performance. She is described as a "very heavy sailboat which is under powered," but also "stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized," reinforcing her suitability for offshore voyages. The Motiva 40 boasts a theoretical hull speed of 7.44 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details for the Motiva 40 can vary, largely due to the practice of some hulls being sold for owner-completed fit-outs, her design as a bluewater cruiser suggests a practical and comfortable living space. Given her substantial beam of 12.53 feet, the interior typically features ample volume for a vessel of her size. Common arrangements for a boat designed for extended cruising would likely include a V-berth forward, a functional head compartment, a comfortable salon with seating and a dining area, and a well-equipped galley. The robust steel construction, a hallmark of Motiva Yachts, often translates into a solid, quiet interior conducive to offshore living.