Olympic Sea 42 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Olympic Sea 42 commenced in 1989, a period when Olympic Marine was at the height of its shipbuilding prowess, known for its rapid expansion and modernization efforts. The vessel's design, attributed to the acclaimed Douglas Blair Peterson, reflects his expertise in crafting performance-oriented sailing yachts. Peterson's designs, which gained prominence from the 1970s onwards, were celebrated for their blend of speed and seaworthiness, a philosophy clearly evident in the Sea 42's lines. The builder, Olympic Marine, emphasized quality construction during this era, notably incorporating advanced materials like ARAMAT K—a composite combining optical fiber and Kevlar, originally developed by Jeanneau and Du Pont de Nemours—into the hull of the Olympic Sea 42 to enhance strength and durability. This commitment to robust construction was a hallmark of Olympic Marine's ethos, which saw them produce over 2,000 sailboats, many of which were known for their center-cockpit configurations, though the Sea 42 is a more traditional aft-cockpit design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area of 720 square feet and a displacement of 17,500 pounds, the Olympic Sea 42 presents a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 17.09. This figure suggests a boat that is reasonably powered, capable of good performance in moderate to strong winds, while perhaps requiring a bit more breeze to truly come alive in lighter conditions. Its Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio stands at approximately 222.4, categorizing it as a moderate displacement cruiser. This indicates a vessel that is neither excessively heavy, contributing to a comfortable motion, nor overly light, which could lead to a less stable ride in rougher seas.

While specific ballast information for the Olympic Sea 42 is not provided, the Jeanneau Sun Legend 41, its close relative, is noted to have a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 42.5%, suggesting a stiff and stable platform. Owners of the Olympic Sea 42, often reflecting on its close resemblance to the Sun Legend 41, generally describe it as a well-performing hull that handles beautifully in various wind conditions. The presence of a lead keel on the Olympic Sea 42 further enhances its windward performance for both racing and fast cruising. Its masthead sloop rig offers simplicity and efficient sail area distribution.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Olympic Sea 42 is designed for comfortable living aboard, reflecting its cruising aspirations. While detailed specifications for maximum headroom are not available, similar models and reviews suggest a spacious environment conducive to longer stays. Owners and reviewers highlight the use of teak woodwork throughout the interior, creating a classic and inviting atmosphere. The layout typically features ample storage, including a large oilskin hanging locker, a common feature on cruising yachts of this size. Descriptions often detail a traditional arrangement with a forward V-berth, a saloon with settees and a table, a functional galley, and one or more quarter berths or aft cabins, along with a head compartment. The design prioritizes comfort and practicality for extended periods at sea, with an emphasis on creating a stately and refined living space. There are often options for different interior layouts, such as an owner's version with a more expansive aft cabin.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Olympic Sea 42 for its solid construction and robust build quality, often noting its suitability for extensive cruising, including potential ocean crossings. The vessel is commonly regarded as a reliable choice for liveaboards due to its spacious accommodations and comfortable motion in a seaway. Those who operate the Sea 42 often commend its sailing performance, highlighting its ability to maintain speed and handle well even in fresh winds. Reviews from charter operations often point to high levels of accuracy and cleanliness, indicating that well-maintained examples continue to offer a premium experience. While specific common problems for the Olympic Sea 42 itself are not widely documented, general discussions around its closely related counterpart, the Jeanneau Sun Legend 41, sometimes mention issues with original deck fittings requiring re-bedding or the need for updates to aging systems on older boats. Overall, the sentiment among owners is largely positive, with a strong appreciation for its enduring design and capabilities.