Passport 42 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Passport 42 commenced in 1981 and concluded in 1988, with approximately 50 units built during this period. The boat's design originated from Stan Huntingford, a prolific naval architect whose work emphasized seaworthiness and comfort. Notably, the Passport 42 shares its hull design with the Slocum 43, indicating a shared pedigree for robust offshore performance. During the Passport 42's production run, Passport Yachts established its initial standards for build quality and offshore capability through construction at renowned Taiwanese facilities, such as the King Dragon yard and Hai Yang. This early period was crucial in cementing Passport's reputation for producing highly sought-after vessels capable of undertaking significant voyages. The company's manufacturing ethos during this time focused on creating heavy-duty boats built to cross oceans, a characteristic deeply embedded in the Passport 42's DNA.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Passport 42 is characterized by its significant displacement, indicative of its robust, blue-water cruising intent. With a displacement of 25,500 lbs and a length on waterline (LWL) of 34.83 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) calculates to approximately 269.46. This high ratio firmly places the Passport 42 in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent stability, rather than a light-air speedster.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.08 further underscores its design as a capable cruiser, meaning it's not overly sensitive to light winds but will perform steadily as conditions pick up. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.35 suggests a good level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a decent amount of wind. Owners frequently praise the Passport 42 for its solid construction and capable offshore performance. While its heavy-duty nature might be considered "a bit too heavy duty" for prevailing light winds in some coastal areas, it is precisely this characteristic that makes it a trusted vessel for long-distance cruising. The skeg-hung rudder contributes to directional stability and protection in varying sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Passport 42 is designed for comfortable and functional living, reflecting its blue-water cruising aspirations. Reviews and owner accounts frequently highlight the spaciousness and practicality of its accommodations. A notable feature often praised by owners is the generously sized galley, which typically offers abundant food storage space and is crucial for liveaboard life and extended voyages. These galleys often include signature front and top-opening refrigerator and freezer compartments, designed for efficient access.

The overall layout is described as comfortable and functional, with interior details often featuring quality wood trim, particularly teak, which is commonly original and well-maintained in these classic cruisers. The Passport 42 offers tremendous storage throughout the vessel, a critical aspect for long-term cruising. Typical interior arrangements include a V-berth forward, a head, a comfortable salon, and a well-appointed galley, with some aft cockpit configurations featuring an offset master berth. The emphasis on robust construction extends to the interior, with features like bronze portlights and proper hardware contributing to a sense of enduring quality.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Passport 42 for its exceptional build quality. Many highlight the robust, heavy-duty construction, noting that the boats were clearly built to cross oceans. Specific elements like bronze portholes and the overall integrity of the hardware are frequently praised. The substantial storage capacity, particularly within the galley, is a recurring positive comment from those living aboard or undertaking extended cruises.

While generally regarded as a solid and reliable vessel, some discussions among owners touch on potential maintenance considerations. For instance, the chainplates on the Passport 42 are fiberglassed into the hull, a design choice that, while sturdy, requires careful inspection over time, though widespread issues are not commonly reported. The boat's heavy displacement, while a strength for offshore work, may lead some owners in light-wind regions to perceive it as less agile than lighter performance-oriented boats. Despite these minor considerations, the collective sentiment among Passport 42 owners is overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing pride in the enduring quality and offshore capabilities of their yachts.