C&C 42 Custom Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the C&C 42 Custom are defined by its high-aspect sail plan and a deep fin keel that provides exceptional lift. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio typically hovering in the 200–210 range and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio often exceeding 20, the boat is remarkably powered for a 42-foot yacht of its vintage. In light air, it moves with a grace that leaves modern high-volume cruisers stalled, while in a breeze, the boat’s balsa-cored hull provides a rigid platform that translates gust energy directly into forward motion rather than hull flex.

According to technical archives at the C&C Photo Album & Resource Center, the 42 Custom was designed to be competitive in PHRF and IOR fleets, which manifests in a boat that tracks exceptionally well upwind. However, like many yachts of this era with a narrow beam at the waterline and significant tumblehome, it can be "rolly" when sailing deep downwind in a following sea. Handling is crisp, aided by a large-diameter destroyer wheel that provides significant mechanical advantage over the spade rudder, though owners often note that the boat requires early reefing—typically around 15–18 knots of true wind—to maintain a balanced helm and prevent excessive heel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the C&C 42 Custom strikes a balance between the functional requirements of an offshore racing crew and the aesthetic expectations of a private owner. Clad in the brand’s signature honey-colored teak, the layout is typically centered around a robust U-shaped galley to port and a forward-facing navigation station to starboard. Unlike the "condo-maran" style of modern cruisers, the 42 Custom emphasizes safety at sea, featuring abundant handrails and a narrow cabin sole that ensures a sailor is never more than a short reach away from a secure handhold.

Variations on the 42-foot hull were common during C&C’s semi-custom production runs. While the 42 Custom focused on performance, the hull form shares significant DNA with the C&C 41, though the 42 features an elongated transom and refined underwater foil shapes. Inside, some variants offered a dedicated "owner’s cabin" aft with a double berth, while others—optimized for racing—utilized that space for pipe berths and sail storage. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6'4" in the main salon, and the use of deck prisms and Lewmar hatches ensures the space remains well-ventilated and bright despite the dark wood finishes.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a C&C 42 Custom must be diligent regarding the proprietary construction methods used during the 1980s. While innovative, these techniques require specific maintenance.

• Balsa Core Integrity: The most significant concern is the end-grain balsa core used in both the deck and the hull. If deck hardware (stanchions, cleats, or tracks) has not been periodically re-bedded, water can ingress and rot the core. A thorough percussion "tap test" or moisture meter survey is mandatory, especially around the chainplates and the mast step.
• The "C&C Smile": Many models from this era develop a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate a need to torque the keel bolts or, in more severe cases, a weakening of the fiberglass grid structure internally.
• Rod Rigging: Many 42 Customs were delivered with Navtec rod rigging. While superior for performance due to low stretch, rod rigging has a definitive fatigue life (often 10–15 years). If the age of the rigging is unknown, it should be considered a "replace-on-purchase" item to prevent catastrophic mast failure.
• Engine Access: While the Yanmar or Universal diesels typically found in these boats are reliable, access can be tight. Check the state of the saildrive diaphragm (if equipped) or the traditional packing gland, as these are often overlooked in the deep bilges.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical context for this model is the C&C Photo Album, an exhaustive resource maintained by enthusiasts that includes original brochures and design notes. Owners also frequently congregate through regional yacht clubs in the Great Lakes and the Chesapeake Bay, where these boats maintain a strong one-design or handicap racing presence.

The Verdict

The C&C 42 Custom remains a premier choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice speed for comfort. It is a sophisticated machine that requires a higher level of maintenance than a mass-production boat but offers a sailing experience that is significantly more refined.

Pros:

• Superior upwind performance and light-air agility.
• High-quality interior joinery that stands the test of time.
• Classic, aggressive "pointed" aesthetics that remain timeless.
• Strong community support and technical documentation.

Cons:

• Vulnerable to expensive balsa core delamination if neglected.
• Significant tumblehome can make the deck feel narrow compared to modern designs.
• Rod rigging and high-performance hardware carry higher replacement costs.