Avance 40 DH Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Despite its "Deck House" designation, which often implies a compromise in sailing characteristics in favor of motor-sailing, the Avance 40 DH maintains the pedigree of its Sparkman & Stephens hull. The design features a moderate-to-heavy displacement and a traditional fin keel that provides exceptional directional stability. Owners often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well in a seaway, a characteristic typical of S&S designs from this era.

The sail plan is conservative yet effective for blue-water passages. Because the DH version carries a higher center of gravity due to the elevated deckhouse and interior helm station, it is slightly more tender than its standard-profile sibling, but this is mitigated by a generous ballast ratio. The boat is designed to be handled by a couple, with most lines led aft to the cockpit. The presence of an internal steering station—often equipped with a throttle and autopilot controls—allows the helmsman to navigate through inclement weather without exposure, though the primary sailing feel is best experienced from the aft cockpit, where the mechanical steering remains tactile and responsive.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Avance 40 DH is a masterclass in Scandinavian woodworking, characterized by extensive use of solid teak and high-quality veneers. The defining feature is the raised "deck house" salon, which places the dining area and a secondary navigation/helm station on an elevated platform. This layout ensures that even when seated below, the crew maintains a clear view of the horizon, significantly reducing the claustrophobia often associated with traditional yachts during long passages.

The vessel typically follows a two-cabin, two-head layout, though variations exist based on original owner specifications. The master cabin, located aft, often utilizes the full beam of the boat, providing a level of luxury and storage rarely seen in 40-footers from the mid-80s. The galley is generally located "longitudinally" or in a "U-shape" just forward of the salon, offering security for the cook while underway. Compared to its sibling, the standard Avance 40, the DH variant offers significantly more headroom and natural light, though it sacrifices a bit of the "cozy" protected feeling of a deep-set cabin.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting an Avance 40 DH, the primary focus should be on the integrity of the deckhouse structure and the specialized systems required for a dual-helm yacht.

• Window Seals and Glazing: The large panes of the deckhouse are prone to UV degradation and leaks. Check for evidence of water ingress around the interior teak trim and ensure the seals have not hardened or cracked.
• Teak Deck Integrity: Like many Finnish boats of this era, the Avance 40 DH was often delivered with screw-fastened teak decks. Prospective buyers should check for thinning wood, failing "bungs," and signs of core moisture, as a full replacement can be prohibitively expensive.
• Dual Steering Linkage: The complexity of having both an internal and external helm means the steering cables or hydraulic lines must be meticulously maintained. Check for "play" in the wheel and ensure the transition between helm stations is seamless.
• Engine Access and Maintenance: Because the engine is often located beneath the salon floor to accommodate the DH layout, access can be tighter than in traditional designs. Verify the condition of the insulation and the accessibility of primary filters and pumps.
• Osmosis: While Öja Båtar utilized high-quality resins, any hull from 1984 should be surveyed for osmotic blistering, particularly if the boat has spent significant time in warmer waters.

Community & Resources

Owners of Avance yachts often congregate within broader Scandinavian sailing associations due to the builder's regional popularity. Technical documentation and original design drawings can occasionally be sourced through the Sparkman & Stephens Archive, which maintains records for Design #2481. In Finland, the "Avancepurjehtijat" (Avance Sailors) group remains the most reliable repository for model-specific historical data and owner modifications.

The Verdict

The Avance 40 DH is a robust, "all-weather" cruiser that successfully blends the performance heritage of Sparkman & Stephens with the comfort of a pilothouse. It is an ideal choice for sailors who prioritize visibility and protection from the elements without sacrificing the soul of a true sailing yacht.

Pros:

• Superb Finnish build quality with exceptional interior joinery.
• True 360-degree visibility from the interior salon.
• Capable blue-water hull design by Sparkman & Stephens.
• Protected interior helm station for cold-weather cruising.

Cons:

• Higher windage and center of gravity compared to the standard Avance 40.
• Complexity of maintenance for deckhouse windows and dual-helm systems.
• Limited production numbers make finding one on the brokerage market difficult.