Nordic 40 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nordic 40 is frequently praised for its balance and upwind ability. Designed as a "sprightly" alternative to the Valiant 40, it features a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio of approximately 234 and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 17.68. These figures indicate a moderate-weight vessel that possesses enough sail area to move well in light air while maintaining the stability required for heavy weather. According to editorial reviews in Sailing Magazine, the boat is often described as a "big pussycat" at the helm, showing little weather helm and tracking reliably even in a chop.

The hull geometry utilizes a fine entry forward to slice through waves and a flattened section aft to promote stability and speed. Its deep fin keel (6'5") and skeg-mounted rudder provide a tighter turning radius than full-keel cruisers, making it much more maneuverable in tight marinas. Owners often report that the boat feels "stiff" and stands up well to its canvas, rarely requiring a first reef before 20 knots of true wind.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nordic 40 is a testament to the high-end craftsmanship of Pacific Northwest boatbuilding during the 1980s. The layout is traditional yet functional, featuring extensive teak joinery and a cabin sole of teak and holly. The forward cabin contains a standard V-berth with a large head located just aft to port, notably including a separate stall shower—a luxury for a 40-foot boat of this era.

The main saloon consists of an L-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard, with a large, bulkhead-mounted folding table that opens up the floor space when not in use. The U-shaped galley is positioned to port at the foot of the companionway, providing a secure "nook" for the cook while underway. Variations in the layout were minimal, though some later versions produced by Norstar Yachts featured a walk-through transom and updated swim platforms. Its larger sibling, the Nordic 44, shares a similar aesthetic but offers a secondary head and more expansive aft accommodations.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nordic 40 has a storied history among long-distance sailors. One of the most well-known examples is Arctic Tern, a hull that successfully completed a circumnavigation and was later featured in an extensive editorial piece by Graham Wilson for Sailing Magazine. Wilson’s account highlights the boat’s durability and the relative ease with which it can be retrofitted for modern cruising. The design's status is bolstered by Robert Perry’s own public commentary, where he has frequently cited the Nordic series as some of his best-balanced work.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Nordic 40 is built to a very high standard, prospective buyers should focus on several age-related technical areas:

• Aluminum Fuel Tanks: Original tanks are prone to localized corrosion or leaks at welded brackets after 25+ years. Replacement often requires significant joinery work.
• Rudder Delamination: Some owners have reported partial delamination of the rudder blade over time. A thorough percussion test or moisture meter reading by a surveyor is essential.
• Balsa-Cored Decks: Like many boats of this era, the Nordic 40 uses balsa coring in the deck. While the hull is solid fiberglass, the deck hardware must be properly bedded to prevent moisture from reaching the core.
• Mast Step: There have been isolated mentions in owner circles regarding the compression post and mast step area; inspectors should look for signs of sagging or corrosion at the base.
• Chainplates: The inboard chainplate configuration is robust, but the sealant at the deck level should be checked for leaks that could affect the bulkhead or core.

Community & Resources

The Nordic 40 community is relatively small but highly dedicated. Owners often interact through the broader Robert Perry design groups and regional Pacific Northwest sailing forums. For technical insights directly from the source, Robert Perry offers a paid consulting service where he provides original design notes and advice for owners of his legacy designs.

The Verdict

The Nordic 40 remains a premier choice for sailors who refuse to sacrifice speed for safety. It is a true "sailor's boat" that manages to look traditional while performing with modern efficiency.

Pros:

• Excellent helm balance and tracking.
• Superior build quality with a highly insulated hull.
• Capable offshore performance with a safe, deep cockpit.
• Generous interior storage and a separate shower stall.

Cons:

• Limited production numbers make finding one on the used market difficult.
• The 6'5" draft may be restrictive for some coastal gunkholing.
• Original aluminum tanks are likely reaching the end of their service life.