Lacoste 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The pedigree of Sparkman & Stephens is evident in the Lacoste 42’s hull form, which leans toward the IOR (International Offshore Rule) era's characteristics but with a more refined, cruising-oriented approach. With a displacement of approximately 19,000 lbs and a ballast ratio nearing 35%, the boat is noted for its stability and "big boat" feel in a seaway. The design features a relatively deep fin keel (roughly 7' 7") or an optional wing keel, paired with a balanced spade rudder that provides precise, responsive feedback through the wheel.

Under sail, the Lacoste 42 is optimized for upwind efficiency. Its fractional rig, a departure from the masthead rigs common in French production boats of the era, allows for better mainsail control and easier headsail handling. Sailors often report that the boat tracks exceptionally well, a hallmark of the S&S office's commitment to balanced waterlines. While it is not a light-air flyer by modern standards, it thrives in a breeze; editorial insights from French maritime journals like Voiles et Voiliers have historically praised its stiff, predictable behavior when the wind exceeds 15 knots. It bridges the gap between the racing-heavy designs of the early 80s and the more voluminous cruisers that would dominate the 90s.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Lacoste 42 was a significant departure from the heavy, dark wood aesthetics prevalent in contemporary yachts. Designed to mirror the "Lacoste Lifestyle," the cabin is characterized by bright, airy spaces, often featuring light-colored ash or oak woodwork and white laminates. The layout typically offers a three-cabin configuration, with a spacious owner’s suite forward and two symmetrical double cabins aft, though a two-cabin "Owner" version was also produced to provide a larger galley and storage area.

Headroom is generous throughout the main salon, which features a U-shaped settee and a large navigation station that reflects its blue-water aspirations. The integration of "Lacoste" elements extended to the soft goods, with high-quality fabrics and a clean, minimalist design language. Yachting France built the boat with an emphasis on ergonomic flow, ensuring that even with a full crew, the transition from the companionway to the forward cabin remains unobstructed. The sibling model, the Lacoste 36, follows a similar design language but lacks the expansive aft-quarter volume found in the 42.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Lacoste 42’s cultural footprint is inextricably linked to the persona of René Lacoste himself. While most marine collaborations with fashion brands result in "stickers-and-upholstery" packages, the Lacoste 42 was an original hull design. It was featured prominently in French lifestyle and nautical media during the late 80s as the "Chic Cruiser." The boat's launch was a major event in the French yachting calendar, symbolizing the peak of Yachting France's ambition to rival the luxury tier of the market.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Lacoste 42 with the understanding that these are high-quality but aging vessels. Key areas for inspection include:

1. Mast Step and Compression: Given the fractional rig and high shroud tension, the mast step area should be scrutinized for any signs of compression or cracking in the support grid.
2. Hull-to-Deck Joint: Like many Yachting France builds from this era, the hull-to-deck joint is a mechanical and chemical bond that can develop leaks if the boat has been raced hard or undergone significant torsional stress.
3. Teak Deck Longevity: Many Lacoste 42s were delivered with hand-laid teak decks. After three decades, these may be nearing the end of their service life, requiring expensive re-coring or replacement.
4. Osmotic Blistering: While Yachting France utilized decent resins, hulls from the mid-80s are still susceptible to osmosis. A thorough moisture meter test of the hull below the waterline is essential.
5. Grid Attachment: Ensure the internal fiberglass grid (which carries the keel and rig loads) remains fully bonded to the hull, as separation can occur following a significant grounding.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Lacoste 42 often find technical support within the broader Jouët Owners Associations in France and the UK, as the boat shares many construction methodologies with the Jouët 1300 and other contemporary models from the Yachting France yard. While a dedicated "Lacoste" club is rare, the Sparkman & Stephens Association provides a wealth of archival data and design history for hull number 2503, offering a global network for those maintaining these S&S classics.

The Verdict

The Lacoste 42 is a sophisticated cruiser that offers a rare blend of American design pedigree and French stylistic flair. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who values aesthetic distinction and upwind performance over the maximum interior volume found in modern "condo-marans."

Pros:

• Timeless Sparkman & Stephens hull lines ensure excellent sea-kindliness.
• Unique "Lacoste" interior design remains bright and modern by today's standards.
• High-quality construction from the peak era of Yachting France.
• Exceptional upwind performance and balance.

Cons:

• Maintenance of the fractional rig and older teak decks can be costly.
• Narrower stern compared to modern cruisers reduces cockpit lounging space.
• Specific "Lacoste" branded replacement parts are no longer in production.