Farr 940 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Farr 940 is defined by its lively, responsive nature, a hallmark of Bruce Farr’s early work. Utilizing a fractional rig and a high-aspect-ratio keel, the boat is remarkably fast in light to moderate airs. On the water, the 940 feels more like a large dinghy than a heavy keelboat, providing immediate feedback through the tiller. According to the Farr Yacht Design List, the 940 (Design 126) was specifically engineered to optimize the balance between speed and handling.

Owners frequently report that the boat tracks well upwind but truly shines on a reach or a run, where its relatively flat aft sections allow it to plane in heavy conditions—a feat few 31-footers of its era could achieve comfortably. The technical ratios suggest a light-to-moderate displacement-to-length ratio, meaning that while the boat is fast, it requires active sail management. Reefing early is often recommended, as the 940 can become "tender" or overly powered once the breeze exceeds 18 knots. The helm remains balanced even when heeled, provided the mainsail is trimmed correctly to manage the pressure on the rudder.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike its predecessors, which often featured "stripped-out" racing interiors, the Sea Nymph-built Farr 940 was designed with an emphasis on liveability. The layout typically accommodates six adults: a double V-berth forward, two settee berths in the main saloon, and a generous double quarter-berth tucked under the cockpit on the starboard side. The use of warm teak veneers and molded GRP liners was a step up in production quality for Sea Nymph at the time, providing a much drier and more finished feel than the raw interiors of pure racing machines.

The 940 features a functional L-shaped galley, usually equipped with a two-burner stove and a reasonably sized icebox. Headroom is generous for a boat of this length, generally exceeding 6 feet in the main cabin area. A key sibling to the 940 is the Farr 9.2; while they share a similar silhouette, the 940 offers significantly more beam carried aft, which translates to a larger cockpit and a more spacious aft cabin area. Some custom variations exist with different keel depths, but the Sea Nymph production models largely stuck to a standardized cruiser-racer configuration.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Farr 940, the age of the hull and the nature of its construction require a focused technical assessment.

• Keel Joint and "Farr Smile": Like many Farr designs of this era, the junction where the lead keel meets the GRP stub can develop a hairline crack known as the "Farr smile." While often cosmetic, it should be checked for signs of movement or weeping, which may indicate that the keel bolts require tightening or the backing plates need replacement.
• Chainplate Leaks: The chainplates pass through the deck and are a common source of water ingress. If left unsealed, this moisture can migrate into the plywood bulkheads, leading to structural rot. Inspect the wood around the chainplate attachments for discoloration or softness.
• Deck Core Integrity: Sea Nymph used balsa or foam coring in the decks to save weight. Buyers should use a phenolic hammer or a moisture meter to check for soft spots, particularly around high-load deck hardware, stanchion bases, and the mast step.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: Due to its high-performance nature, the rudder bearings on the 940 can wear down, leading to "play" or vibration in the helm. Replacing these nylon or vesconite bushings is a standard maintenance task but essential for maintaining the boat’s celebrated handling.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical context is the Farr Owners Association, which maintains records for the various Bruce Farr production models built in New Zealand. While Sea Nymph transitioned primarily back to powerboats, their legacy in the yachting world is still recognized by the New Zealand Yachting community, and technical drawings are occasionally still accessible via Farr Yacht Design for a fee.

The Verdict

The Farr 940 is a versatile classic that appeals to sailors who refuse to sacrifice speed for comfort. It remains one of the most cost-effective ways to enter the competitive club racing scene while still possessing the amenities for weekend coastal cruising.

Pros:

• Exceptional light-air performance and downwind speed.
• Spacious, well-thought-out interior for a 31-foot vessel.
• Active second-hand market and strong brand recognition in New Zealand.
• Balanced handling that rewards a skilled trimmer.

Cons:

• Requires early reefing to maintain control in heavy weather.
• Susceptibility to deck core moisture if deck hardware is not re-bedded.
• Original engine installations (often small Yanmar or Bukh units) may be reaching the end of their service life.