NY 40 (Peterson) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Peterson NY 40 was a collaborative effort, with production spanning from 1977 to 1978. Its genesis lay in the New York Yacht Club's desire to rekindle one-design racing among its members, leading to the commission of Doug Peterson for the design. The construction process involved multiple specialized builders: O.J. Young molded the fiberglass hulls, New Orleans Marine, founded by B. Thomas Dreyfus, produced the lead keels, and Palmer Johnson completed the interiors. While New Orleans Marine's primary boat-building operations later focused on models like the Impulse 26 in the mid-1980s, their contribution to the NY 40's robust keel construction was integral. Palmer Johnson, known for their custom luxury yachts, brought a high standard of finish to the vessel's interior. Only 21 units of this unique one-design were built, contributing to its classic status.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Peterson NY 40's design brief as an offshore one-design class dictated a balance of speed and seaworthiness, reflected in its performance ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.16, the NY 40 is categorized as a moderate performer. This suggests a boat that is responsive in a variety of conditions, with decent performance in lighter winds without being overly tender in heavy air. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/D) ratio of around 36.75% indicates a good level of initial stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its rig in a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 240.6 places the NY 40 in the moderate displacement category. This configuration strikes an effective balance, offering a blend of cruising comfort and speed, making it a well-regarded racer/cruiser capable of sailing close to the wind and maintaining good speeds. Owners frequently describe the NY 40 as a stable, stiff, and capable offshore vessel, with good righting capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Peterson NY 40, primarily finished by Palmer Johnson, was designed to offer practical comfort suitable for offshore cruising and racing. While specific detailed layouts can vary between individual boats due to customization or subsequent owner modifications, typical arrangements for a vessel of this size and era would feature a conventional V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a dining table, a galley, and a navigation station. A notable feature often found is a rear sleeping cabin, providing additional berths suitable for guests or children. The finish quality, consistent with Palmer Johnson's reputation, generally includes robust joinery and a functional design emphasizing durability for offshore use. Storage solutions are integrated throughout the cabin to accommodate gear for extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Peterson NY 40 consistently praise its solid construction and its versatility as both a competitive racer and a comfortable cruiser. The design by Doug Peterson is well-regarded for its sailing characteristics, with many highlighting the boat's ability to perform well on all points of sail. The pedigree of its multiple builders—O.J. Young for hulls, New Orleans Marine for keels, and Palmer Johnson for interiors—contributes to its reputation as a well-engineered and well-built vessel. While the NY 40 embodies the design aesthetics and systems of the late 1970s, which might require updating for some owners, its fundamental quality and sailing prowess remain highly valued.