Farr 740 Sport Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 740 Sport is defined by its responsiveness and agility. Unlike the heavier, displacement-oriented cruisers in the Sea Nymph catalog, the 740 features a flatter run aft and a high power-to-weight ratio that allows it to plane in moderate breezes. Under sail, the boat feels more like a large dinghy than a traditional keelboat, providing immediate feedback through the tiller. The fractional rig offers a high degree of tunability, allowing crews to depower the mainsail through backstay tension—a critical feature given the boat's relatively light displacement.

Owners frequently note that the boat is exceptionally "stiff" for its size, thanks to a well-engineered lifting keel system that places significant weight low in the water. This stability makes the 740 Sport a versatile platform; it is forgiving enough for a couple to day-sail but possesses the technical complexity to keep a seasoned racing crew engaged. The boat tracks well upwind, though it truly shines on a reach or run, where the Bruce Farr-designed hull minimizes drag and maximizes surface area for planing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

While the "Sport" suffix indicates a focus on performance, the 740 does not entirely sacrifice overnighting capability. The interior layout is efficient, typically featuring a V-berth forward, a compact galley area, and two quarter-berths that extend under the cockpit seats. To maximize the utility of its 24-foot length, many models were equipped with a "pop-top" companionway hatch, which significantly increases standing headroom when the boat is at anchor.

The boat was built alongside several siblings that utilized similar hull concepts or construction techniques. The Farr 7500 is the most notable relative; while it shares a similar length, the 7500 is a heavier, beamier cruiser with more wood-grain finish and amenities. In contrast, the 740 Sport’s interior is more utilitarian, favoring molded fiberglass liners that are easy to clean and contribute to the vessel's structural rigidity. Another sibling, the Farr 6000, offers a smaller-scale version of this trailerable concept, though it lacks the 740's raw speed.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Farr 740 Sport remains a staple of the Southern Hemisphere’s "Trailer Yacht" racing scene. It is a recurring protagonist in the Bay of Islands Sailing Week and various Marlay Point Overnight Races, where its ability to handle both coastal chops and flat-water sprints is routinely tested. While it hasn't been the subject of major cinematic features, it is a "cult classic" within New Zealand marine literature, frequently cited in historical overviews of Sea Nymph as the model that helped redefine what a production sports-trailer-yacht could achieve.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a used Farr 740 Sport with a focus on the mechanical and structural components unique to trailer sailers.

• Keel Pivot and Lifting Mechanism: The lifting keel is the heart of the boat’s versatility. The pivot bolt and the stainless steel lifting cable should be inspected for wear and corrosion. A "clunking" sound while underway may indicate worn keel shims.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many GRP boats of the 1980s, the 740 Sport uses a balsa or foam sandwich construction for the deck. Check for soft spots around the chainplates and mast step, as water ingress here can lead to delamination.
• Chainplate Reinforcement: Given its sporty rig, the chainplates are under significant load. High-tension racing can sometimes cause hairline fractures in the gelcoat around these attachment points.
• Trailer Condition: Because this boat is often stored on land, the trailer is as important as the hull. Look for structural rust in the box sections and ensure the braking system is compliant with modern road safety standards.

Community & Resources

The legacy of the 740 Sport is preserved through dedicated owner groups. The Farr Trailer Sailer Association is the primary hub for technical data, rigging guides, and class rules. This community is instrumental for new owners looking to source specific replacement parts for the Sea Nymph-built hulls or seeking advice on competitive handicap ratings for club racing.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-cost ratio with genuine planing potential.
• Easy to trailer and launch compared to fixed-keel sportsboats.
• Versatile "pop-top" design provides surprising comfort for overnight trips.
• High resale value due to the Bruce Farr design pedigree.

Cons:

• Utilitarian interior may feel sparse for those accustomed to dedicated cruisers.
• Requires active sail trimming to manage the powerful rig in heavy air.
• Maintenance of the lifting keel mechanism is a mandatory periodic task.