The Kettenburg 40 stands as a definitive transition point in West Coast maritime history, marking the evolution of Kettenburg Boat Works from a builder of specialized racing machines to a producer of premier racer-cruisers. Designed by Paul Kettenburg and introduced in the late 1950s, the "K-40" was the yard's response to a growing demand for a vessel that could compete in offshore events like the Transpac while providing the amenities required for family coastal cruising. Unlike the earlier, more Spartan PC and PCC classes, the Kettenburg 40 featured a beamier hull and a more substantial displacement, offering a level of stability and interior volume that was revolutionary for the time. Approximately 40 of these wooden sloops were built between 1958 and 1965, and they remain a fixture of the California coast, particularly within the slips of the San Diego Yacht Club, where the model's heritage is deeply intertwined with the club's history.
Kettenburg 40 Sailboats for Sale & Market Overview

- Make
- Kettenburg
- Model
- 40
- Builder
- Kettenburg Boats
- Designer
- Paul Kettenburg
- Number Built
- 40
- Production Year(s)
- 1959 - ??
Below are the most recent Kettenburg 40 sailboat listings (up to 10).
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| Source | Year | Make | Model | Price | Cabins | Heads | City | Country | Listing Date | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
DISCLAIMER: We are not affiliated with any external listing websites in any way. We simply aggregate publicly available listings to make it easier for buyers to find sailboats for sale. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the listings, so please verify all information with the seller before making any decisions.
Market Overview
| Model | LOA | Median Price (USD) | Listings | Recent |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Little Harbor 40 | 40.16' | $42,500 | 27 | 7 |
| Pacific Seacraft 40 | $245,000 | 22 | 2 | |
| Passport 40 | 39.42' | $119,000 | 22 | 8 |
| Vindö 40 | 30.94' | $23,561 | 20 | 11 |
| Tartan 40 | 40.25' | $89,900 | 14 | 0 |
| Swan 40 | 39.3' | $117,692 | 14 | 3 |
| Nauticat 40 | 39.37' | $129,900 | 13 | 7 |
| Hans Christian Christina 40 | 39.83' | $95,000 | 11 | 3 |
| Hinckley Bermuda 40-3 | 40' | $185,000 | 5 | 0 |
| CAL 40 | 39.33' | $68,000 | 4 | 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are similar sailboats to the Kettenburg 40?
- Comparable models include the Little Harbor 40, Pacific Seacraft 40, Passport 40. See the comparison table above for pricing and availability.