Cartwright 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Cartwright 42 is defined by its heavy displacement and Brewer’s signature "radius-built" hull logic. On the water, the boat exhibits the predictable, sea-kindly motion characteristic of a vessel with a high displacement-to-length ratio. Its underwater profile typically features a long fin keel with a cutaway forefoot and a substantial skeg-mounted rudder. This configuration allows the 42 to track exceptionally well in a seaway, reducing helm fatigue during long offshore legs.

While it is not a "light air" performer, the Cartwright 42 carries its momentum through chop that would stop lighter production boats. Owners and reviewers often note that the boat feels most at home when the wind rises above 15 knots, where its stiffness and righting moment come into play. According to technical insights from Ted Brewer Yacht Design, the cutter rig is the preferred setup for this model, providing a versatile sail plan that allows for easy reefing and balanced handling in heavy weather. The boat’s ability to "heave-to" effectively is frequently cited as a primary safety feature for solo or short-handed circumnavigators.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Cartwright 42 reflects its heritage as a Canadian-built cruiser, often featuring extensive use of high-quality hardwoods like teak or mahogany. Because many of these vessels were finished to the specific requirements of their original owners, interior layouts can vary. However, the standard arrangement typically includes a traditional offshore galley located near the companionway for stability, a dedicated navigation station, and a robust saloon with deep pilot berths for use at sea.

Headroom is generally generous, a hallmark of Brewer’s designs, which aim to make living aboard a realistic long-term prospect. The "B" layout or custom iterations often include a large forward V-berth and a smaller aft cabin, though the engine room accessibility is usually prioritized, often found beneath a central cockpit sole or a dedicated compartment in pilothouse versions. Sibling models, such as the Cartwright 36 and the larger Cartwright 44, utilized similar design languages, but the 42 is widely considered the "sweet spot" in the range, offering the necessary waterline for speed without the increased docking and maintenance complexities of the 44.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Cartwright 42 must approach the survey with a focus on its metal construction. While steel provides immense strength, it requires meticulous maintenance to prevent "inside-out" corrosion.

• Hull & Frame Insulation: Inspect the insulation behind the cabinetry. In older steel boats, condensation can form between the insulation and the hull, leading to localized rust if the coating system was compromised.
• Chainplate Integration: On metal hulls, the chainplates are often welded directly to the structure. Ensure there is no evidence of stress cracking or "bleeding" rust at these critical load points.
• Tankage Integrity: The fuel and water tanks are often integral to the hull. These should be pressure tested or inspected via clean-out ports to ensure there is no internal scaling or pitting.
• Electrical Isolation: Check for the presence of an isolation transformer or a well-maintained galvanic isolator. Stray current in a marina can cause rapid sacrificial anode depletion on a metal boat like the Cartwright.
• Deck-to-Hull Join: Even though the hull is metal, some units may have used teak-over-steel decks or bolted-on wooden trim. Any penetrations through the metal deck are potential sites for moisture entrapment and rust.

Community & Resources

The primary technical resource for owners is the office of Ted Brewer Yacht Design, which maintains archives of the original plans and can provide technical consultations regarding modifications or rig changes. While there is no formal "Cartwright Owners Club," these boats are frequent fixtures in the Metal Boat Society, a community dedicated to the maintenance and appreciation of steel and aluminum cruising vessels.

The Verdict

The Cartwright 42 is a purpose-built tank for the high seas, offering security that few fiberglass boats of its era can match. It is an ideal choice for the high-latitude sailor or the cruiser who prioritizes safety and "go-anywhere" capability over marina-side aesthetics or racing trophies.

Pros:

• Exceptional Durability: The steel construction and Brewer design provide a nearly "bulletproof" hull for reef-strewn or ice-filled waters.
• Superb Tracking: The keel and rudder design make for a relaxing experience under autopilot or wind-vane steering.
• Living Volume: Designed for true live-aboard comfort with excellent storage and ventilation.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Metal hulls require constant vigilance regarding paint systems and sacrificial anodes.
• Weight: Its heavy displacement makes it sluggish in light winds and requires a large engine for motoring against current.
• Market Rarity: As a semi-custom Canadian build, finding one on the secondary market can be difficult, and quality can vary based on the original shipyard finish.