Jeanneau Sun Fast 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Sun Fast 42 is characterized by its exhilarating sailing characteristics and light, responsive helm. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 197 and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio of roughly 18.76, the vessel sits firmly in the performance-cruiser category, offering a blend of stability and speed. According to a technical review in Yachting Monthly, the boat is an "exhilarating sailing machine" that prioritizes performance above all else. Its tall fractional rig and standard 140% genoa typically require an active crew to manage effectively, though the boat remains remarkably composed for short-handed passage-making when handled with care.

The hull appendages were offered in two primary configurations: a standard fin keel with a weighted bulb (1.85m draft) and a deep-draft lead fin version (2.30m draft) aimed at more competitive offshore racing. The deep-keel variant provides a higher righting moment and lower drag, significantly improving upwind pointing ability. On the water, the boat is known for its ability to track well in a chop, though owners have noted that the large sail plan can cause the boat to round up in gusts exceeding 20 knots if the mainsail is not reefed early.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Despite its racing pedigree, the interior of the Sun Fast 42 reflects the high-quality teak joinery and ergonomic layouts for which Jeanneau was famous during the 1990s. The cabin offers a maximum headroom of 80 inches (203 cm), creating an airy environment that belies the boat’s sleek, low-profile exterior. Jeanneau offered two primary configurations: the "Owners" version and the "Team" (or crew) version. The Owners version typically features three cabins and two heads, with a generous V-berth forward, while the Team version was designed for racing campaigns and could accommodate up to eight or ten people by utilizing four cabins or additional pullman-style berths in the saloon.

The galley is positioned to starboard and is U-shaped to provide security for the cook while underway, featuring a two-burner stove, a large icebox, and double stainless-steel sinks. A dedicated navigation station sits opposite the galley on the port side. A clever design detail found in some hulls is the lift-up backrests on the saloon settees, which can be converted into additional sea berths for off-watch crew during offshore races.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should conduct a thorough survey focusing on the following areas common to Jeanneau models of this vintage:

• Thru-Hull Fittings: Like many production boats from the 1990s, the original thru-hulls were often made of brass or low-grade bronze that can suffer from dezincification. Most technical advisors recommend upgrading these to high-quality bronze or Marelon fittings.
• Rudder and Steering: There have been reports of play in the rudder bearings or cracking at the junction where the rudder post meets the blade. The steering cables and quadrant should also be inspected for wear and tension.
• Compression Post: Inspect the base of the mast compression post for signs of sinking or moisture, which can lead to stress cracks in the deck gelcoat around the mast step.
• Engine Maintenance: Standard engines were typically Yanmar or Perkins diesels. Check the engine mounts for rust, which often indicates a slow leak from the alternator or cooling system, and inspect the exhaust elbow for carbon buildup.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: For iron-keel versions, check for "smiles" at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint, which may indicate the need for re-torquing the keel bolts or addressing minor movement.

Community & Resources

The most prominent technical resource for this model is the Jeanneau Owners Network, an independent organization that hosts a wealth of technical wikis, original brochures, and owner forums. This community provides specific "Hints and Tips" for the maintenance of older Sun Fast models, including rigging diagrams and interior restoration guides.

The Verdict

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-comfort ratio, making it suitable for both club racing and fast cruising.
• High-quality interior woodwork that ages better than many modern "modular" interiors.
• Designed by Philippe Briand, ensuring a modern, seaworthy hull shape that remains competitive.
• Deep-draft lead keel option provides superior upwind performance.

Cons:

• Large sail plan and high-aspect rig can be demanding for novice or solo sailors in heavy air.
• The "Team" interior layout can feel cramped and utilitarian compared to the "Owners" version.
• Limited production run (25 hulls) makes them relatively rare on the used market.
• Factory thru-hulls and some deck hardware may require immediate upgrades if original.