Salona 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Salona 40 emerged in 2003, reflecting Salona Yachts' foundational mission to craft sailboats that merge racing prowess with cruising luxury. The design, attributed to the renowned J&J Design, aimed for a sporty, clean, and elegant profile, emphasizing high performance without compromising liveability 1, 12, Builder Article. During this era, Salona Yachts, built by AD Boats Ltd. in Solin, Croatia, distinguished itself through advanced construction techniques, including the use of cutting-edge vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates for the hull and deck. A hallmark of Salona's structural integrity, and inherent in the Salona 40, is the integrated stainless steel internal frame, which supports the keel and mast, providing exceptional strength, stiffness, and safety at sea. While specific variations like a MkI or MkII for the Salona 40 are not widely documented, the boat was offered with a deep (race) keel option and features a fractional rig.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 40 is well-regarded for its excellent sailing performance, balancing speed with ease of handling. Its design ratios indicate a performance-oriented cruiser; with a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 22.1, she is poised to perform well even in lighter air conditions. A Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.388 suggests good inherent stability and stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up to a breeze effectively. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 166.7 indicates a relatively light displacement for its length, contributing to its agile and responsive feel on the water. Owners and reviewers describe the Salona 40 as a pleasing cruiser that fits seamlessly into racing fleets, embodying the "cruiser-racer" spirit. Its fractional rig, a common feature for performance cruisers of its size, contributes to its efficient sail plan and ease of management, even with a reduced crew.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not provided, the Salona 40 is recognized as a spacious and comfortable yacht, reflecting Salona's broader commitment to modern comfort within its performance-oriented designs. Typical configurations for the Salona 40 feature three cabins and six berths, making it suitable for family cruising or accommodating a race crew. The interior layout is designed to maximize living space, with an emphasis on comfort and functionality. Information from similar Salona models suggests a focus on well-appointed interiors with spacious heads and practical navigation areas, implying a high level of interior design and attention to detail throughout the Salona range. The general build quality of Salona yachts, characterized by solid construction, extends to the interior finishes, contributing to a robust yet inviting onboard environment.