Westsail 42 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Westsail 42 commenced in 1974. Sharing the same hull mold as the aft cockpit Westsail 43, the 42 was primarily offered with a ketch or cutter rig, and occasionally a yawl rig, providing owners with various sail plan options for different cruising preferences. The design ethos behind the Westsail 42, much like its smaller sibling the Westsail 32, is deeply rooted in the heavy-displacement, full-keel tradition exemplified by designs from William Atkins and Colin Archer. W.I.B. Crealock masterfully adapted these robust lines for fiberglass construction, imbuing the Westsail 42 with a distinctive salty and timeless appeal. Production of the Westsail 42 continued until 1979, with 116 hulls built during this period. Following Westsail Corporation's bankruptcy, an additional three hulls were completed by Jomarco, bringing the total number built to 119.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westsail 42's design prioritizes stability and seaworthiness over outright speed, characteristic of a true offshore cruiser. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.17, she is not a light-air flyer, but rather a powerful vessel designed to carry her canvas effectively in stronger winds. Her ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.38 indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright stance in a seaway. Furthermore, her displacement to length ratio of around 379.8 firmly places her in the heavy-displacement category, underscoring her capacity for comfortable motion and formidable tracking ability, especially in rough conditions. Owners frequently describe the Westsail 42 as feeling "very safe and solid" under sail. The cutter rig, a common configuration, offers numerous reefing options, allowing for versatile sail management across a range of wind conditions, with some owners noting strong performance with a single reefed main, staysail, and yankee-cut jib. The theoretical hull speed for the Westsail 42 is calculated at 7.74 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Westsail 42, while varying somewhat due to the company's practice of selling some boats as kits, typically features a practical and robust layout geared for extended cruising. Given the Westsail's reputation for being "lived in", interiors are often highly customized by their owners. Common configurations include a spacious V-berth forward, a head compartment, a central salon with settees and a table, a well-appointed galley, and often a quarter berth or additional sleeping area aft. While specific headroom figures are not universally published, it is a common point of inquiry among potential owners. The finish quality tends towards solid, functional materials, often featuring substantial wood trim that contributes to a warm, traditional ambiance. Storage is generally ample, designed to accommodate stores and gear for long passages. Ventilation is achieved through traditional dorade vents and opening ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westsail 42 consistently praise the vessel for its solid construction, seaworthiness, and the sense of security it provides, particularly in challenging offshore conditions. The heavy displacement contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a highly valued trait for blue-water cruising. The robust nature of Westsail yachts means they are built to endure, inspiring confidence for ambitious voyages. The strong and active Westsail Owners Association (WOA) also stands as a significant asset, offering a vital community for support, historical information, and a network of like-minded enthusiasts.

However, as with any vessel of its age and design, common maintenance considerations arise. A frequently noted issue by owners across Westsail models, including the 42, is the potential for leaks, often stemming from original deck fittings requiring re-bedding over time. As many Westsails were sold as kits, the quality of initial completion can vary, impacting long-term maintenance needs. Despite these typical challenges associated with older vessels, the dedicated owner community and the continued availability of parts through entities like the Westsail Parts Company ensure these classic cruisers can be maintained and enjoyed for decades to come.