Andrews 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the Andrews 42 are defined by a high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio and a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the lighter end of the performance-cruising spectrum. On the water, this translates to a boat that is exceptionally responsive in light air—a common requirement for Southern California racing—but one that truly comes alive when cracked off the wind. According to design notes from Alan Andrews Yacht Design, the hull form is optimized for reduced wetted surface area, allowing the boat to transition into a plane more easily than traditional cruiser-racers of its size.

Under sail, the Andrews 42 is known for its "honest" tracking; the deep fin keel and high-aspect rudder provide immense grip, minimizing leeway when clawing upwind. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "powered up" even in 8 knots of breeze, yet remains manageable in 25-knot gusts due to a well-balanced sail plan and a low center of gravity. Handling in a following sea is predictable, a hallmark of Andrews' offshore designs, which were specifically intended to minimize the rhythmic rolling common in older IOR-era hulls. While it requires an active crew to trim to its full potential, the boat is surprisingly forgiving for short-handed coastal hops.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While primarily a performance-oriented vessel, the interior of the Andrews 42 reflects the dual-purpose nature of the racer-cruiser category. The layout is typically functional and weight-conscious, utilizing lightweight woods or composite panels with teak accents. A standard configuration includes a functional galley to starboard and a dedicated navigation station to port, both situated near the companionway for easy access during offshore watches.

The boat was built in several variations depending on the original owner’s priorities. Some hulls were finished with a "Grand Prix" racing interior featuring lightweight pipe berths in the aft quarters and a minimalist salon to save weight. Others, often referred to as the "Performance Cruiser" version, featured more traditional cabinetry, enclosed aft cabins, and a fully appointed head with a shower. Headroom is generous for a boat of this pedigree, though the narrow beam—designed for upwind efficiency—means the salon feels more intimate than the voluminous interiors found on modern production cruisers. The sibling Andrews 43 model, often built on a nearly identical hull mold, provided slight variations in cockpit ergonomics and transom treatment but shared the same internal volume.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Andrews 42 and its direct siblings have long been fixtures in the Pacific offshore racing circuit. While larger models like the Andrews 56 and 70 often take the headlines in the Transpac, the Andrews 42 has maintained a strong presence in the Pacific Cup and the Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race. The model’s reputation for durability and speed is well-documented in regional sailing publications, often cited as a benchmark for PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) competitiveness in the 40-foot class.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Purchasing a specialized racing vessel like the Andrews 42 requires a specific technical focus during the survey process:

• Keel Attachment & Grid: Given the deep draft and high-load racing history, the internal floor grid and keel bolt areas must be inspected for signs of "panting" or stress cracks. Any history of a "hard grounding" can lead to delamination where the keel stump meets the hull.
• Deck Core Integrity: Dencho Marine utilized high-quality balsa or foam cores, but decades of racing loads on winches and tracks can lead to moisture ingress if deck hardware has not been periodically re-bedded. Focus on high-load areas around the mast partners and primary winches.
• Rudder Bearings: The high-aspect rudder generates significant torque. Wear in the upper or lower rudder bearings can lead to a "heavy" or "clunky" feel at the helm, often requiring replacement to restore the boat’s signature responsiveness.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Many Andrews 42s were equipped with rod rigging. This rigging has a finite fatigue life (typically 10-15 years) regardless of appearance. A buyer should verify the age of the standing rigging and inspect the chainplate bushings for elongation.
• Weight Management: Over years of ownership, cruising gear and heavy modifications can "sink" a performance boat. Buyers should check the waterline against the original design specifications to ensure the boat hasn't been over-burdened, which severely hampers its light-air performance.

Community & Resources

The community surrounding Andrews-designed boats is tight-knit, largely centered in the sailing hubs of Long Beach, Newport Beach, and San Francisco. Technical support and original design documentation can often be sourced through Alan Andrews Yacht Design, which remains an active firm. While no formal "class association" exists for the 42 specifically, owners typically coordinate through regional PHRF organizations and the Transpacific Yacht Club.

The Verdict

The Andrews 42 is a sophisticated, high-performance machine that represents the peak of American custom boatbuilding from the late 20th century. It is not a boat for a novice cruiser seeking a "floating condo," but for the sailor who values speed, helm feedback, and the ability to win trophies on the weekend.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Dominant performance in light to moderate air and a thrill to drive downwind.
• Build Quality: Dencho Marine’s construction is significantly more robust than mass-market production boats.
• Versatility: Capable of both competitive buoy racing and serious offshore passage-making.

Cons:

• High Maintenance: Racing systems (running rigging, sail inventory) require more frequent investment than cruising gear.
• Draft Limitations: The deep keel limits access to shallow harbors and many coastal cruising grounds.
• Interior Utility: While functional, the interior lacks the volume and "lifestyle" amenities found on modern 42-foot cruisers.