Walstead 42 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Walsted 42 begins in 1982, marking its entry into a competitive market for quality cruising yachts. The vessel is notable for being Sparkman & Stephens design number 2441, a testament to the collaboration between Walsteds Baadeværft and the legendary American naval architecture firm. Sparkman & Stephens (S&S) has long been dedicated to ideals that prioritize performance optimization and timeless, classic design. This ethos perfectly aligned with Walsteds Baadeværft's own manufacturing philosophy, which from its inception in 1949, emphasized uncompromising quality, meticulous attention to detail, and a commitment to traditional boatbuilding techniques, often harmoniously blended with modern materials.

Walsteds' reputation was built on delivering yachts that combine performance, comfort, and luxury, frequently appealing to owners seeking bespoke or semi-custom solutions. The yard's long-standing relationship with influential designers like Olin Stephens further solidified their ability to execute complex and elegant designs. An interesting variation in the Walsted 42's production was the availability of a keel/centerboard version, offering adaptability for different cruising grounds, in addition to the standard fin keel model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Walsted 42's specifications reveal a design aimed at balanced performance and exceptional stability. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.47, she falls into the category of a moderate performer, suggesting a yacht that is neither an extreme light-air specialist nor sluggish in a breeze. Instead, this ratio indicates a design capable of respectable speeds while maintaining a comfortable motion, a characteristic often sought in cruising vessels.

The yacht's high ballast-to-displacement ratio (B/D) of about 43.3% is a significant indicator of its stiffness and stability. This substantial amount of ballast, primarily lead, allows the Walsted 42 to stand up to a strong wind, resisting heel and providing a secure feel for those on board. Complementing this is a displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 278, which places her firmly in the realm of a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This weight contributes to a solid feel in a seaway, making the Walsted 42 well-suited for offshore passages where comfort and robust construction are paramount. The hull type is a fin keel with a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for its good tracking ability and protected rudder.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Walsted 42 are not extensively documented in widely available resources, the boat is generally equipped with a capacity for 7-9 berths. Given Walsteds Baadeværft's reputation for exceptional quality and masterful craftsmanship, it can be inferred that the interior finishes would have been of a very high standard, likely featuring extensive use of fine woods and meticulous joinery, characteristic of the era and the builder's ethos.

Typically, a yacht of this size and vintage from a European builder would feature a classic interior arrangement, likely including a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert to berths, a well-appointed galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage would be ample for extended cruising, and ventilation would be provided through deck hatches and portlights. The solid fiberglass hull further contributes to a durable and low-maintenance structure, extending to the deck, which is also constructed of solid fiberglass.