Solaris 40 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Solaris 40 began its production in 2021, reflecting Solaris Yachts' enduring commitment to innovation while preserving their distinctive design ethos. The shipyard, founded as Cantiere Se.Ri.Gi in 1974, has built a formidable reputation for creating seaworthy, solid, and secure boats. Solaris's design philosophy, often characterized by a "no frills" approach, emphasizes clean lines and functional elegance, a hallmark seen throughout its range. This philosophy extends to the Solaris 40, where designer Javier Soto Acebal sought to integrate the latest innovations while retaining his signature aesthetic. His objective was to provide the helmsman with the same advantages as a racing yacht, ensuring excellent lines, a fine entry, and an unobstructed forward view, even from the dual steering pedestals. While the primary design remains consistent, buyers have the option of a shallower keel, reducing the draft from 7.87 feet to 6.56 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Solaris 40 is engineered for a rewarding sailing experience, evident in its balanced design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.23, she is well-equipped for spirited performance, particularly in light airs. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 31% contributes to a solid feel, indicating a stable platform, though perhaps not as stiff as boats with significantly higher ballast ratios. A Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 171.28 places her firmly in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for her length, suggesting agility and responsiveness.

Anecdotal reviews consistently praise the Solaris 40's generous stability, excellent upwind performance, and smooth motion through waves, with low drag enabling good speed even in light winds. She has demonstrated impressive capabilities in winds up to four Beaufort forces, showcasing considerable potential in optimal thermal conditions. Handling is further simplified by the standard self-tacking jib, making the boat very manageable for cruising. The cockpit is thoughtfully designed with two full-width steering pedestals, offering the helmsman an unimpeded forward view.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Solaris 40 is a testament to sophisticated Italian design and high-quality craftsmanship. The layout typically features an L-shaped galley positioned on the port side, near the companionway, providing a functional and well-proportioned space for food preparation. The interior design is refined, utilizing top-tier materials that differentiate it from many standard cruising yachts.

Accommodation options commonly include a choice of two or three cabins, accompanied by two well-appointed bathrooms. The forward owner's cabin is notably spacious for a 40-foot performance cruiser and includes a dedicated separate shower within its en-suite bathroom. Six large hull windows are a key design feature, ensuring the interior is flooded with natural light, enhancing the sense of space and connection to the outside. The overall design aims to provide all necessary amenities for a cruising family or a group of friends, balancing comfort with the yacht's performance orientation.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Solaris 40 consistently commend the yacht's superior quality and well-balanced design. Many express a strong satisfaction with the ownership experience, often noting that it would be challenging to return to a vessel of lesser quality after experiencing a Solaris. For instance, one owner highlighted the yacht's "chic performance cruiser" characteristics after extensive cruising along the coasts of Croatia and the Greek islands. The strong community among Solaris owners, exemplified by events like the Solaris Cup, further enriches the experience, fostering a shared passion for these high-performance yachts.