Farr 740 Sport Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Farr 740 Sport commenced in 1980, a period when Bruce Farr's innovative design philosophy was making a significant impact on sailboat design. Farr, known for his early work on small class-racing yachts, pioneered the use of flat, wide aft displacement hulls that delivered astonishing speed, drawing inspiration from Australian skiffs and marking a departure in traditional yacht lines. This ethos of performance and speed is clearly embodied in the 740 Sport, which was developed to meet a strong market demand for fast, lift-keel yachts suitable for one-design racing.

The builder, Sea Nymph Boats Ltd., brought their expertise in crafting practical and robust vessels to the Farr 740 Sport. While primarily recognized for durable powerboats, Sea Nymph's collaboration with esteemed naval architects like Bruce Farr underscored their commitment to well-engineered designs and a diverse production history. The Farr 740 Sport itself features hand-laid GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction, characterized by a "clinker" style, with a hull lay-up incorporating chopped strand mat, 'Firet' coremat, and woven rovings, ensuring a solid yet lightweight structure. The design maintained a strict one-design philosophy, with class rules mandating interior liners produced from official Bruce Farr Design No. 101 moulds, aiming to prevent unauthorized alterations and maintain competitive integrity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Farr 740 Sport lives up to its name as a "sportscar" of the water, engineered for an exhilarating sailing experience. It is widely regarded as an exciting boat to sail, delivering excellent performance across a range of conditions. Owners and reviewers describe it as a dream to handle even in strong, fresh winds, capable of being driven hard without losing composure. The boat is characterized by its light helm, responsive to subtle inputs, and while it may tack somewhat slower than some counterparts, it maintains its speed effectively. Its fractional twin spreader rig, often equipped with running backstays, highlights its racing pedigree, optimized for maximum sail-carrying ability and adjustment. The design emphasizes its role as a high-performance, "go-fast" yacht, making it an attractive candidate for competitive one-design racing.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Farr 740 Sport prioritizes performance, it does not entirely neglect comfort, offering practical accommodation for short cruises. The interior is designed to sleep four adults or a combination of two adults and two children. The typical layout includes a V-berth forward, providing a dedicated sleeping area. Although interior volume was a lesser priority compared to its racing capabilities, the design manages to incorporate comfortable cruising amenities. A notable safety feature is the bridgedeck positioned between the companionway and the cockpit, which provides a barrier in smaller boats prone to taking water into the cockpit. Descriptions of the interior mention a carpeted centerboard case and a sink, indicating basic provisions for overnighting. The cabin layout adheres to the manufacturer's official moulds, ensuring consistency across the class.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Farr 740 Sport often praise its exceptional racing capabilities and the thrill of its performance. Many appreciate its "go-fast" nature and its ability to compete effectively while still offering a cabin for overnighting during extended events or weekend getaways. The solid construction, a hallmark of Sea Nymph boats, contributes to a general sense of reliability and durability. While specific common problems are not widely documented in general reviews, the boat's design as a high-performance racing machine suggests that owners typically engage in meticulous tuning and maintenance to optimize its competitive edge.