Friendship 40 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Friendship 40 reflects the design philosophy of Koos de Ridder, who is known for creating hulls that balance stability with a surprising turn of speed. The boat typically features a 7/8 fractional rig, which allows for finer control over sail shape and makes the yacht more responsive in varying wind conditions compared to a traditional masthead rig. This sail plan, combined with a relatively high ballast ratio, ensures that the boat remains stiff and carries its canvas well into the upper wind ranges.

Handling is characterized by a "big boat" feel—stable and predictable—yet it retains the maneuverability that Friendship owners have prized since the introduction of the 33. The steering is generally reported to be light but communicative, particularly in the deep-draft keel versions. According to technical documentation from the designer, the hull form was optimized to minimize slamming in choppy head seas, a common challenge in the shallow waters of the IJsselmeer and the North Sea. Owners often note that the boat tracks exceptionally well on a reach, requiring minimal correction at the helm even when the wind freshens.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Friendship 40 showcases the high-caliber Dutch joinery that became the hallmark of the yard’s later years. The layout is typically configured in a three-cabin arrangement, which was a significant step up in volume from its predecessor, the Friendship 38. The use of warm teak or mahogany veneers throughout creates a classic, seaworthy atmosphere that avoids the "plastic" feel of some contemporary mass-production competitors.

In the main saloon, the 40 offers generous headroom, often exceeding 6'3", and a longitudinal or L-shaped galley that is well-equipped for extended voyaging. The master cabin in the bow provides a spacious V-berth with ample storage, while the two aft cabins offer comfortable accommodations for guests or crew. Ventilation is a strong point, with multiple opening hatches and ports designed for the cooler, damp climates of Northern Europe. A notable variation in this model is the "Sport" versus "Cruiser" distinction found in some production runs, where the Sport version might feature a taller rig and deeper keel, whereas the Cruiser variant focuses on a more shallow-draft wing keel to allow access to tidal harbors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Friendship 40 should focus their inspection on the specific technical areas common to Dutch-built yachts of this era.

• Saildrive Diaphragm: Most Friendship 40s were fitted with Volvo Penta engines and saildrives. It is critical to verify the age of the rubber hull seal (diaphragm), as manufacturers recommend replacement every seven years.
• Teak Deck Integration: If the vessel is equipped with an optional teak deck, inspect for thinning wood or failing caulking. Friendship utilized high-quality adhesives, but on boats approaching two decades of age, water ingress under the planks can compromise the sub-deck if not maintained.
• Rudder Bearings: Due to the high loads on the relatively large rudder blade, the self-aligning bearings should be checked for excessive play, which can lead to vibration or heavy steering.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Particularly on wing-keel versions, ensure the joint is free of "smile" cracks. While the Friendship 40 is robustly built, the leverage exerted by the shallow-draft keel requires the internal grid structure to be in pristine condition.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Friendship 40 benefit from a dedicated and technically proficient community. The Friendship Club (IFC) is the primary organization for enthusiasts, providing a repository of historical brochures, technical manuals, and an active network for sourcing replacement parts specific to the Dutch shipyard's hardware. While much of the formal documentation is in Dutch, the club is known for its international membership and willingness to assist owners across Europe and North America.

The Verdict

The Friendship 40 is a distinguished, well-engineered cruiser that offers a significant upgrade in offshore capability and luxury over its smaller siblings. It remains a sought-after model for those who value traditional Dutch craftsmanship and the security of a Koos de Ridder design.

Pros:

• Excellent upwind performance and stiffness in heavy weather.
• Superior interior joinery and classic Dutch aesthetic.
• Spacious three-cabin layout suitable for families or long-distance cruising.
• High resale value due to the brand's reputation for longevity.

Cons:

• Larger draft (on standard models) can limit access to some shallow coastal areas.
• Availability is limited compared to the high-volume 28 and 33 models.
• Maintenance costs for the saildrive and teak elements can be higher than more modern, simplified cruisers.