Sirius 40 DS Information, Review, Specs

Crafted by the esteemed German shipyard Sirius-Werft GmbH, based in Plön/Holstein, the Sirius 40 DS is the culmination of an intensive five-year development program that included a design contest involving four exceptional naval architects. This meticulous approach underscores the builder's commitment to rigorous design and engineering, resulting in a yacht celebrated for its blend of performance and liveability.

History and Design

The Sirius 40 DS represents the pinnacle of Sirius-Werft's design philosophy, following a lineage of successful deck saloon models that began with the pivotal Sirius 31 in 1988. Introduced in 2015, the 40 DS was conceived as a no-compromise cruising yacht, designed for extended voyages and comfortable liveaboard capabilities. The shipyard, founded by Peter Schmidt in 1971 and now led by his son Torsten Schmidt, has consistently specialized in deck saloon designs, focusing on creating yachts that offer unparalleled comfort and functionality for cruisers.

Sirius-Werft's manufacturing ethos, especially during the development of the 40 DS, emphasizes semi-customization. While the hull is standard, the interior layout and finishes are handcrafted and tailored to the specific requirements of each owner, ensuring that every Sirius yacht is a unique creation. A notable design feature of the Sirius 40 DS is the availability of multiple keel options, including a fixed keel (with drafts of 2.0m or 1.75m), a twin keel (1.45m draft), and even a swing keel option (min 0.95m, max 2.45m), providing exceptional versatility for varied cruising grounds, including drying moorings. The design also ingeniously eliminates negative stability, further highlighting the shipyard's focus on safety and comfortable cruising in diverse conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 875.11 square feet and a displacement of 25,574 pounds, the Sirius 40 DS exhibits a conservative sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.08. This suggests a yacht that is not designed for blistering light-air performance but rather for steady, powerful motion, particularly well-suited for heavy air conditions. Her displacement to length ratio, calculated at a substantial 518.4 (based on a waterline length of 36.65 feet), firmly places her in the category of a heavy, traditional cruiser, indicating a yacht built for comfort and stability over outright speed. The ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.297, while not exceptionally high, combined with the fin keel and the builder's emphasis on eliminating negative stability, contributes to a stable and seakindly motion.

Anecdotal reports from reviews praise the Sirius 40 DS for its solid performance in windy conditions and its remarkable consistency of motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers have noted that the boat tracks beautifully and accelerates well when sails are eased, even in stronger winds, indicating a balanced helm and predictable behavior. The emphasis on robust construction and a deep fin keel (or other keel options) ensures the boat stands up well to a blow, providing a secure and comfortable ride for its crew.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Sirius 40 DS is highly customizable, reflecting the shipyard's semi-custom approach, meaning no two yachts are exactly alike in their specific layout and finish details. However, the core design revolves around the innovative deck saloon, which offers panoramic 360-degree views from the dinette, galley, and often an interior helm or navigation station. This "one-level living" concept is a hallmark of Sirius yachts, significantly enhancing comfort and livability for extended periods aboard.

Typically, the Sirius 40 DS can accommodate up to three double berths in private sleeping areas, a significant achievement for a 40-foot vessel. Common arrangements include a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious salon area within the deck saloon, a well-appointed galley often positioned to maximize light and views, and an aft cabin or cabins. The finish quality is generally described as exceptional, showcasing the dedicated craftsmanship of Sirius-Werft's boat builders and carpenters. Materials often include high-quality wood trim, contributing to a warm and traditional marine interior feel. Storage is ample, designed with long-distance cruising in mind, and ventilation is thoughtfully addressed, particularly for cruising in warmer climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Sirius 40 DS for its solid, robust construction and the feeling of security it instills, particularly in challenging sea conditions. The elimination of negative stability and the overall build quality contribute to a sense of confidence at sea. The innovative deck saloon layout is a frequently lauded feature, providing unparalleled comfort, natural light, and a true connection to the outside environment, even when below deck. The high level of customization offered by Sirius-Werft also receives positive feedback, as it allows owners to tailor the yacht precisely to their cruising needs and preferences.

While comprehensive owner reviews detailing common problems are less publicly available, the general consensus points to a highly engineered and reliable vessel. Some discussions highlight the complexity of the systems, given the boat's advanced features, but these are generally viewed as part of its sophisticated design rather than recurring issues. The optional twin keel is often mentioned positively for its versatility, particularly in areas with drying moorings.