Salona 42 Information, Review, Specs

The Salona 42 began production in 2008. The design, penned by the renowned Slovenian maritime architect bureau J&J Design, aimed to combine sporty elegance with brilliant performance. J&J Design is known for creating boats with sharp lines and excellent handling. This aligns with Salona Yachts' broader philosophy, which, since its inception in 2002, has been to craft sailboats that defy traditional boundaries, blending exhilarating racing performance with the comfort and luxury expected of a cruising yacht. The company's vision was to design and build globally competitive sailing yachts that could excel in demanding regattas while offering uncompromised comfort for leisurely cruising.

Salona Yachts, built by AD Boats Ltd. in Solin, Croatia, has consistently pushed the boundaries of yacht construction through advanced building techniques. The hull and deck laminates of Salona yachts are constructed using cutting-edge vacuum infusion technology with vinyl ester resin and tri-axial oriented laminates, resulting in a robust yet lightweight structure. A pivotal innovation in Salona's structural integrity is the integration of a stainless steel internal frame, which supports the keel and mast, providing exceptional strength, stiffness, and safety at sea. This commitment to engineering excellence is evident in the Salona 42, which adheres to the Salona philosophy of pursuing excellent results with sporty, clean, and elegant hull and deck lines. Information on significant variations during its production run was not readily available in the search results.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Salona 42 is engineered for performance, evident in its calculated ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.98, the Salona 42 suggests strong performance in lighter air conditions, indicating it is responsive and can maintain speed even when the wind is not robust. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of about 136 positions it as a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for its size, promising an agile and engaging sailing experience. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.326 indicates a moderate level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze without being overly tender, although it is not as stiff as some heavier cruisers.

Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Salona 42 for its sharp lines, excellent design, and outstanding handling quality, describing it as a "full-energy performer". Its slender lines, particularly in the bow, contribute to its impressive sailing performance. The boat is often characterized as a performance cruiser-racer, designed for exhilarating sailing. The deep draft of 6.56 feet (2.00 meters) further enhances its upwind performance and stability. The Salona 42 has demonstrated its competitive capabilities, placing third in the ORCi World Championship.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data for the Salona 42 was not provided in the initial specifications, the interiors are generally described as bright and well-organized, typically offering either two or three cabins. Some configurations, such as a 2-cabin version with a carbon mast and rod rigging, have been noted. Another common layout features three cabins and one electric head. The boat can comfortably sleep six, with configurations often including a master cabin. For a yacht of its size, Salona boats, including the 42, offer a high level of interior space design. The general finish quality typically features teak and other high-quality materials, reflecting Salona's commitment to luxury and comfort alongside performance. The design often includes an open cockpit, enhancing both comfort for cruising and functionality for racing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Salona 42 for its robust construction and exceptional sailing characteristics. It is often highlighted as a well-maintained performance sailing yacht, well-equipped for both racing and cruising. The ability of Salona boats to be easily handled, even with a reduced crew, makes them suitable for single-handed sailing, family cruising, or competitive racing, a trait likely appreciated by Salona 42 owners. Owners have found the Salona 42 to be an "ideal vehicle for exploring the myriad ports of call within a quick day's sail". While specific common problems or weaknesses were not extensively detailed in the grounded search results, the overall sentiment points towards a high degree of owner satisfaction with its blend of performance and comfort.