Dragonfly 40 Touring Information, Review, Specs

The Dragonfly 40 Touring was introduced in 2020, continuing Quorning Boats' legacy of innovative trimaran construction which began in 1967. The design, a collaborative effort between Jens Quorning and Steen Olsen since 2002, focuses on creating high-quality vessels that seamlessly blend performance, comfort, and safety, 7, 15]. The designers leverage high-tech 3D design and advanced milling techniques to craft precise and efficient hull forms. Quorning Boats prides itself on continuous innovation and adherence to state-of-the-art boat building standards, utilizing highly skilled staff in their Danish facilities.

The Dragonfly 40 is designed for CE Category A, signifying its suitability for offshore and ocean trips. While the Touring version comes standard with a self-tacking jib, Quorning offers several other configurations, including the Ultimate, C Ultimate Carbon, and C Performance versions, which feature taller, more powerful rigs and larger headsails, with "C" models incorporating carbon fiber for enhanced performance. This modular approach allows owners to tailor the boat to their specific sailing ambitions, from comfortable cruising to active, high-speed racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Dragonfly 40 Touring is engineered as a true performance cruiser, emphasizing speed and ease of handling. With a length overall of just over 40 feet and a waterline length of nearly 38 feet, combined with a total reported sail area of 968.75 square feet, the boat is well-powered for exciting sailing. Its design focuses on speed, from the shape of the central hull to the amas and sail plan. Owners can expect high-speed sailing, with some configurations capable of reaching speeds up to 24 knots, setting it apart from traditional cruising monohulls. The trimaran configuration, with a sailing beam of over 27 feet, provides exceptional stability and allows for upright sailing, contributing to both comfort and performance, builder article].

A defining characteristic is the patented "Swing Wing" system, which allows the trimaran's floats to fold in, reducing the beam to just 13.12 feet, 20]. This feature dramatically increases its versatility, enabling the boat to fit into standard marina slips and be trailered on roads, aspects that traditionally limit large multihulls, 20]. The boat features a fractional sloop rig and three rudders, which contribute to its responsive handling and balance in various sea states. The focus on shorthanded sailing means that sail handling systems are designed for simplicity and efficiency.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Dragonfly 40 introduces a brand-new design and styling to the Dragonfly range, characterized by its modern and elegant aesthetics. Despite the inherent challenge of designing accommodations within a narrow main hull, the designers have created a stylish and functional living space. The layout typically includes two double cabins, with the aft cabin generally offering more spacious accommodations. The forward cabin features lockers and large hull portlights, contributing to an open and airy feel.

The interior design provides neat solutions to maximize the use of space, reflecting a thoughtful approach to comfortable cruising. The main cabin offers a great view forward, contributing to the overall sense of openness. The cockpit is also spacious, designed for comfort and ease of movement, further extending the living area outdoors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Dragonfly trimarans consistently praise the brand's commitment to solid construction, comfortable motion in a seaway, and the exhilarating speed these boats offer. The distinctive qualities of Dragonfly trimarans, particularly their folding "Swing Wing" system, responsive handling, and robust build, are frequently appreciated by a strong and engaged community of enthusiasts. Many owners have a long-standing relationship with the brand, some owning multiple Dragonfly models over decades, which speaks to their satisfaction and the enduring appeal of these unique multihulls.