Cartwright 42 Sailboats for Sale & Market Overview

The Cartwright 42 is a quintessential example of the "blue water" cruiser philosophy that dominated the custom and semi-custom boatbuilding scene in the Pacific Northwest during the late 1970s and 1980s. Designed by the renowned Ted Brewer, the vessel was primarily constructed by Cartwright Yachts in Richmond, British Columbia. Built mostly in steel—though some aluminum hulls were produced—the Cartwright 42 was engineered for extreme durability and long-range self-sufficiency. It represents a period when offshore sailors prioritized hull integrity and directional stability over the lightweight, high-volume designs of the modern era. The boat is often identified by its rugged aesthetic, frequently featuring a cutter rig and a traditional transom that signals its intent as a serious passage-maker.