Cambria 40 Information, Review, Specs

The construction of the Cambria 40 was notably sophisticated for its era. The hulls were vacuum-bagged and utilized Airex foam coring, a method that provided exceptional stiffness and thermal insulation while keeping the displacement-to-length ratio moderate. This approach allowed the boat to remain light enough to perform well in the light airs of the Chesapeake or Mediterranean, yet robust enough to handle the rigors of the North Atlantic. According to historical data from David Walters Yachts, the designer’s primary goal was to ensure the boat could be easily handled by a couple, a philosophy reflected in the deck layout and the balanced sail plan.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Cambria 40 is frequently described by owners and reviewers as a "sailor's sailboat." With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio typically hovering around 17.5, it possesses enough power to move efficiently in 8–10 knots of breeze, a feat many traditional cruisers struggle to achieve. The hull shape, characterized by a fine entry and a clean run aft, allows the boat to track exceptionally well, reducing the strain on an autopilot or human helm during long passages.

Handling is further enhanced by the balanced rudder design, which provides tactile feedback without becoming heavy as the wind increases. In heavy weather, the boat's moderate displacement (approximately 19,000 lbs) and high ballast-to-displacement ratio (near 40%) provide a motion that is predictable and sea-kindly. While it does not have the "cork-like" motion of a modern ultra-light racer, it avoids the pounding often associated with flat-bottomed production boats. The Scheel keel, a popular option on this model, provides the lift of a deeper fin keel while allowing the vessel to explore shallower cruising grounds, such as the Bahamas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Cambria 40 reflects the high-end, semi-custom nature of its production. Because these boats were built in limited numbers, the level of joinery is often compared to Hinckley or Alden. Most hulls feature a classic two-cabin, one-head arrangement, though the specific choice of wood (teak vs. cherry) and the configuration of the navigation station often varied based on the original owner’s preferences.

The salon is typically characterized by a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, with high-quality upholstery and solid-wood cabinetry. The galley is designed for use at sea, featuring deep sinks and ample bracing points for the cook. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6'4", which is notable for a boat with such a sleek exterior profile. The Cambria 44 is the most significant sibling to the 40; the two share the same hull mold, but the 44 features an extended reverse transom that increases the cockpit space and provides more storage in the lazarettes. Later iterations built under the Cabo Rico banner maintained these high standards, though some purists prefer the original Rhode Island-built versions for their specific hardware choices.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When evaluating a Cambria 40, the primary concern for a buyer is the condition of the Airex-cored hull and deck. While Airex is generally more resistant to rot than balsa, moisture intrusion around improperly bedded deck hardware can still lead to delamination over decades. A professional moisture meter survey is essential.

1. Chainplate Inspections: Like many yachts of this age, the stainless steel chainplates are buried behind cabinetry. Because they are critical to the rig's integrity, they should be inspected for crevice corrosion, especially where they pass through the deck.
2. Teak Deck Wear: Many Cambria 40s were commissioned with full teak decks. If these have been neglected, the bungs may be thin or the screw heads exposed, potentially leading to leaks into the core. Refurbishing a teak deck of this vintage is a significant financial undertaking.
3. Engine Access: While the engine (typically a Westerbeke or Yanmar) is well-insulated for sound, access for major repairs can be tight. Buyers should check the service history of the heat exchanger and raw water pump, which are often located in hard-to-reach areas.
4. Rigging Age: Given the performance nature of the boat, many owners opted for rod rigging. Rod rigging has a finite lifespan (often cited as 15–20 years) and should be dye-tested or replaced if the history is unknown.

Community & Resources

The Cambria 40 community is closely tied to the broader Cabo Rico owner groups, though it maintains a distinct sub-identity due to the David Walters design heritage. Technical support and historical documentation can often be found through David Walters Yachts, as the designer remains active and has archived many of the original build specifications and brochures.

The Verdict

The Cambria 40 is a "blue-chip" cruiser that appeals to the sailor who refuses to sacrifice performance for comfort. It is an ideal vessel for an experienced couple looking to transition from racing to long-distance cruising without losing the thrill of a well-balanced helm.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality with "furniture-grade" interior joinery.
• Highly balanced sailing characteristics and excellent light-air performance.
• Sophisticated construction (Airex core) provides a quiet and stiff hull.
• Classic, timeless aesthetics that maintain high resale value.

Cons:

• High purchase price compared to mass-produced yachts of the same era.
• Maintenance-intensive exterior teak is common on most examples.
• Deep-draft or Scheel keel configurations may limit access to some shallow coastal areas.