Southerly 42 Information, Review, Specs

The story of Southerly Yachts is rooted in the Northshore Shipyard, where the brand originated in the early 1970s and developed its pioneering variable draft keel technology, notably with the Southerly 105 in 1978. Production flourished at Northshore from 1975 until 2014, establishing Southerly's reputation for high-quality, capable bluewater cruisers. Following a hiatus, the brand was acquired and revived by Concept Yachts, with operations now based in Marchwood, near Southampton. The Southerly 42, with a reported production start year of 2021, represents a continuation of this esteemed heritage under the new ownership.

While the specific design of the very latest Southerly 42 iteration is part of Concept Yachts' modern lineup, its lineage draws heavily from successful previous models, particularly the popular Southerly 42RST. The hull design for many Southerly yachts in this size range, including the 42RST, is credited to the renowned naval architect Rob Humphreys. Humphreys' designs are known for their blend of performance and comfort, complementing Southerly's trademark lifting keel system. The core design philosophy revolves around the ingenious variable draft keel, which allows the boat to reduce its draft significantly, from a maximum of nearly 9 feet to a mere 2.76 feet, providing unparalleled access to shallow anchorages and tidal waters. This system, often referred to as a "swing keel" or "lifting keel," offers both deep draft performance offshore and the ability to dry out on a hard or navigate very shallow areas.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southerly 42 is designed as a capable performance cruiser, balancing sailing efficiency with comfortable motion. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.04, she falls into the category of a good all-around cruising yacht, suggesting a balanced performance across various wind conditions without being overly tender or sluggish. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 230.6 indicates a moderately heavy displacement cruiser, known for its solid feel and ability to handle a seaway comfortably.

Despite a relatively low Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 18.5%, characteristic of lifting keel designs, the Southerly 42 achieves excellent stability. This is primarily due to the deep draft achieved when the swing keel is fully lowered, providing substantial righting moment, coupled with the boat's inherent form stability from its broad beam. Reviews of the closely related Southerly 42RST praise its sailing characteristics, noting that it sails well to windward and handles easily. Owners and reviewers highlight its ability for "fast and efficient sailing," particularly appreciating the performance benefits when the keel is fully extended. The combination of a tall fractional rig (mast height from waterline 60.7 feet) and the variable draft keel allows for strong windward performance while maintaining the versatility for shoal-draft cruising. The twin rudder configuration, often featured on these models, further enhances control and responsiveness, especially at lower speeds or in challenging conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Southerly 42 is designed for comfortable living and extended cruising, a hallmark of the Southerly brand. A defining feature is the raised saloon, which allows for panoramic views and floods the interior with natural light, creating a bright and spacious living area. While specific headroom figures for the latest 42 are not detailed, Southerly yachts are generally known for generous interior volume.

Typical layouts for the Southerly 42, often following the highly successful pattern of the 42RST, include options for two or three cabins. A common arrangement features an owner's cabin forward, often with an en-suite head, a spacious main saloon, a well-appointed galley, and aft cabins, sometimes including a second head. The internal joinery is consistently described as being of a high standard, showcasing quality craftsmanship and materials, often finished in attractive wood. Ample storage is usually integrated throughout the vessel, catering to the needs of cruisers. Ventilation is typically good, with numerous vents and hatches designed for airflow, contributing to a comfortable living environment in varied climates.