Centurion 40 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Centurion 40 is defined by its stiffness and an ability to track exceptionally well in a seaway. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio typically exceeding 40%, the boat is notably "stiff," allowing it to carry full sail longer than many modern, lighter-displacement cruisers. The hull features a deep-finned keel and a semi-balanced spade rudder, which Dubois Naval Architects optimized for upwind performance.

Owners frequently report that the boat "comes alive" in 12–15 knots of breeze, finding a natural groove where the helm remains light and responsive. While its IOR heritage is visible in the slightly pinched stern compared to modern wide-beam designs, the Centurion 40 avoids the "broaching" tendencies of earlier IOR hulls. It handles heavy weather with a sense of security, slicing through chop rather than pounding over it. The standard high-aspect rig provides ample power for light-air performance, though the large genoa—common for the era—requires a proactive crew to manage during short-tacking.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Centurion 40 is a masterclass in traditional yacht joinery, utilizing solid teak and high-quality veneers that have stood the test of time better than many contemporary builds. The layout was typically offered in two primary configurations: a two-cabin version with a single, large aft head and a three-cabin version more suited for guest cruising.

The main saloon features a traditional U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, centered around a large folding table. A standout feature for the era is the dedicated forward-facing navigation station, which is large enough to serve as a genuine ship’s office. The galley is typically L-shaped, situated to port near the companionway, providing security for the cook while underway. Headroom is generous throughout, usually measuring around 6'3" in the main saloon.

The Centurion 40 also exists alongside its "big sisters," the Centurion 42 and 47, which were designed on the same principles but offered larger aft cabins and additional head compartments. In the early 2000s, the yard introduced the "Centurion 40s" (Sport), a Berret-Racoupeau design. While it shares the name, the 40s is a fundamentally different boat with a much wider transom, twin wheels, and a vacuum-infused hull, representing the next generation of the Centurion lineage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Centurion 40 with a focus on age-related maintenance, as these vessels are now entering their fourth decade of service.

1. Teak Deck Longevity: Most Centurion 40s were delivered with thick teak side decks. These were typically screwed and glued. By now, the bungs may be thin and the screws may have allowed moisture to penetrate the core. A thorough moisture meter test of the deck is essential.
2. Rod Rigging: Many units were equipped with Navtec rod rigging. If the rigging has not been replaced or professionally re-headed within the last 10–12 years, it should be considered "end of life" regardless of visual appearance.
3. Hull-to-Grid Bonding: Like many performance cruisers of this era, the internal fiberglass grid (the "matrix") provides the hull's structural stiffness. Buyers should inspect the bond between the grid and the hull, particularly around the mast step and keel floors, for any signs of cracking or separation that might indicate a hard grounding.
4. Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder assembly is known for being robust, but the original bearings can develop play over time, leading to a "knocking" sensation in the helm.
5. Volvo Penta Engine: Many original units were fitted with Volvo Penta 2003T or MD series engines. While reliable, parts for the 2003 series are becoming increasingly expensive and difficult to source, making an engine hours verification and oil analysis a priority.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these yachts is preserved by a dedicated community of owners who value the "pre-mass-production" quality of the Wauquiez yard. The most prominent group is Wauquiez Forever, a non-profit association that maintains technical archives and organizes rendezvous for owners. They provide a vital link for sourcing obscure parts or technical drawings that may no longer be available through the yard’s current owners, Exel Industries.

The Verdict

The Wauquiez Centurion 40 is a "sailor's sailboat" that prioritizes seaworthiness and build quality over maximum interior volume. It is an ideal choice for a couple or small family looking for a high-quality offshore cruiser that can hold its own in club racing.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: Hand-laid fiberglass and superior interior joinery that far exceeds modern entry-level standards.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The Dubois lines remain striking and sleek even decades after the boat's debut.
• Offshore Capability: A heavy-weather specialist that offers a safe, predictable ride in blue water.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Teak decks and older rod rigging can lead to significant "refit" costs.
• Dated Cockpit Ergonomics: The cockpit is narrower and more enclosed than modern designs, making it less social for large groups at anchor.
• Limited Transom Access: The traditional reverse transom lacks a modern swim platform, making water access more challenging.