CS 395 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The CS 395 is widely regarded as a "sailor's boat," benefitting from the design pedigree of Tony Castro Yacht Design, a firm known for balancing racing speed with cruising stability. The hull features a moderate displacement and a fine entry that allows the boat to point exceptionally well, a trait often noted in technical assessments of its predecessor, the CS 40. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio typically in the high 17s or low 18s, the 395 is lively in light air but remains stiff enough to handle heavy weather without early reefing.

Handling is characterized by a balanced feel at the helm, thanks to a high-aspect spade rudder that provides immediate feedback. Owners and reviewers often remark on the boat's "sea-kindliness," noting that it tracks true and lacks the nervous motion found in lighter, flatter-bottomed modern production boats. The 395 was designed with a performance-oriented keel—often a lead fin—which lowers the center of gravity significantly compared to cast-iron equivalents, enhancing the vessel's righting moment and allowing it to carry more sail area effectively in a breeze.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the CS 395 showcases the craftsmanship that defined Canadian Sailcraft’s "Golden Age." The interior is typically finished in rich hardwoods, often cherry or teak, with a level of fit and finish that rivals contemporary Scandinavian builders. The layout is a standard offshore-capable arrangement, featuring a large forward V-berth and a generous aft cabin tucked under the cockpit. A key variation between the 395 and the earlier CS 40 is found in the galley and storage configurations; the 395 often maximized locker space to better suit long-term coastal cruising.

The main salon is centered around a large drop-leaf table, with headroom that comfortably accommodates sailors over six feet tall. Ventilation is a high point, with numerous opening ports and Lewmar hatches providing excellent airflow. Because the 395 was a late-stage model, many units were equipped with higher-end amenities as standard, such as Corian-style countertops and upgraded upholstery. The sibling CS 40 shared this hull and much of the interior footprint, though the 395 is often distinguished by its integrated swim platform and modified deck molding, which streamlined the cockpit's ergonomics for short-handed sailing.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a CS 395 should prioritize an inspection of the "structural grid" or sub-floor framing system. While CS Yachts were built to high standards, the bonding of this grid to the hull is critical for maintaining the boat’s rig tension and keel support. Any signs of "panting" or separation near the keel floors should be evaluated by a professional surveyor.

Another common area for inspection is the deck-to-hull joint and the various deck penetrations. Like many boats from the late 1980s and early 1990s, the balsa-cored decks are susceptible to moisture ingress if hardware—such as stanchion bases or traveler tracks—has not been periodically re-bedded. Additionally, the CS 395 uses a "sugar scoop" transom that should be checked for any delamination or stress cracking around the boarding ladder mounts. Finally, because the company closed shortly after these boats were built, specialized replacement parts (like custom aluminum toe-rails) can be difficult to source, requiring custom fabrication if damaged.

Community & Resources

Owners of the CS 395 benefit from one of the most dedicated owner associations in North America. The CS Owners Association acts as a vital repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and structural drawings. This community is particularly active in the Great Lakes and Pacific Northwest regions, providing a wealth of shared knowledge regarding specific refit projects for the 395 and its sibling, the CS 40. Technical wikis maintained by these owners often provide the only remaining documentation for the specific plumbing and electrical schematics used during the final years of the Brampton factory.

The Verdict

The CS 395 is a quintessential "performance cruiser" that offers a level of build quality and aesthetic appeal rarely found in modern entry-level sailboats. It is an ideal choice for the experienced sailor who values windward performance and offshore capability over maximum interior volume.

Pros:

• Superior build quality with high-end interior joinery.
• Excellent windward performance and balanced handling.
• Lead keel and high-aspect rig provide a stiff, stable ride.
• Strong secondary market value and a dedicated owner community.

Cons:

• Availability is limited due to the short production run before the yard's closure.
• Sourcing model-specific replacement parts (like toe-rails) can be challenging.
• Balsa-cored decks require diligent maintenance to prevent moisture issues.