Ithaca 40 Information, Review, Specs

The Ithaca 40 made its debut in 2012, marking a significant offering from Ithaca Yachts. Erik van den Brand, the founder of Ithaca Yachts, established the company in 2011 with a vision to deeply understand and optimize yacht design and construction from both theoretical and practical perspectives. The Ithaca 40 embodies this ethos, being presented as a semi-custom yacht designed by Flamme Yacht Design. This approach allows for tailored solutions to meet individual client needs, a hallmark of Ithaca Yachts' operating philosophy which emphasizes academic rigor fused with practical application. The boat's construction in aluminum is a key design choice, offering durability and strength, characteristic of performance cruisers built for varying conditions. A notable design variation available is a lifting keel version, providing enhanced versatility for navigating shallower waters while maintaining a deep draft for offshore performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ithaca 40 exhibits characteristics of a lively and stable performer, as indicated by its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 19.6, she is well-equipped to perform efficiently in lighter wind conditions, allowing for spirited sailing even when the breeze is gentle. The Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at an impressive 0.40 (40%), suggesting a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to significant wind and maintaining an upright stance, thereby contributing to a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, her Displacement to Length ratio of around 171.8 places her firmly in the lighter displacement category for her size, indicating a performance-oriented vessel that is responsive and agile. These ratios, combined with a bulb keel and twin rudders, suggest a yacht designed for excellent balance, control, and an engaging sailing experience across a range of conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Ithaca 40 are not widely publicized, its design as a 40-foot performance cruiser built for custom or semi-custom orders suggests a well-appointed interior. Available information indicates a focus on providing excellent views and ventilation, with features such as a coachroof lounge area offering 360-degree views and a forward access door for supreme ventilation. Given its dimensions and purpose, the Ithaca 40 would typically feature a functional and comfortable layout, likely including a forward V-berth, a main salon area, a galley, a navigation station, and at least one head with a shower, suitable for coastal cruising or longer passages. The use of aluminum for the hull provides a strong base for a well-insulated and finished interior, allowing for customization in materials and finishes to suit owner preferences.