Scanmar 40 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Scanmar 40 is a performance-oriented cruiser that rewards active participation from its crew. With a Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 186 and a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 19.1, the boat sits firmly in the "moderate" category, leaning toward the performance end of the spectrum. Its stiffness is one of its most cited attributes, derived from a high ballast ratio of nearly 47%—significantly higher than most contemporary cruisers. According to editorial testing by Yachting Monthly, this stiffness allows the boat to carry a generous rig and maintain directional stability in heavy weather, aided by a long skeg in front of the spade rudder.

In light air, the masthead sloop rig performs admirably, though the large overlapping genoa—standard for the era—requires significant winching effort during tacks. Sailors accustomed to modern self-tacking jibs will find the Scanmar 40 more physically demanding, but the reward is a boat that tracks exceptionally well and provides a gentle, sea-kindly motion in a chop. The hull's narrow beam (3.85m) relative to its length prevents the "skittish" behavior often found in flatter, wider-transom designs when heeled.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Scanmar 40 reflects Olofsson’s obsession with ergonomics and livability. The layout is characterized by a "split-level" feel created by an unusually high bridge-deck. This design choice serves a specific functional purpose: it allows for a protected, internal passageway between the aft cabin and the main heads without sacrificing the structural integrity of the cockpit. The aft cabin itself is a highlight for a boat of this vintage, offering a full-beam double berth and an en-suite head, a configuration rarely seen in 40-footers from the mid-80s.

In the main salon, the use of high-quality Scandinavian joinery creates a warm, traditional atmosphere. The galley is positioned to port and is notably large, featuring deep lockers and a layout designed for use at sea. Opposite the galley, a full-sized navigation station provides ample room for paper charts and electronics. The forward section of the boat includes a second head with a dedicated shower cubicle—a luxury for its time—and a standard V-berth cabin. While the Scanmar 40 was the flagship, it shared many design cues with its smaller siblings, such as the Scanmar 33 and 35, though it utilized the extra length to ensure that no crew members would ever need to use the salon for sleeping.

Popular Mentions & Media

Though rare, the Scanmar 40 has gained a small but loyal following in the blue-water cruising community. It is frequently mentioned in technical reviews as a "Starlight alternative," comparing favorably to the high-end builds of Northshore Yachts. The model has appeared in prominent editorial features in the UK, such as the 2023 retrospective in Yachting Monthly, which praised it as a "beautifully finished" example of an era when builders prioritized longevity over profit margins.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Scanmar 40 with the understanding that these vessels are now over 30 years old.

• Keel-Stepped Mast Leaks: The mast is keel-stepped, and the deck collar seals are a known weak point. Persistent leaks here can lead to moisture in the bilge and corrosion at the mast step.
• Toerail Ingress: The alloy toerails are bolted through the hull-deck joint. If the boat has suffered hard knocks or collisions, the sealant can fail, leading to slow leaks that are difficult to trace behind the interior cabinetry.
• Keel Attachment: While the lead keel is robust, owners of similar Scanmar models have reported fine cracks in the fairing at the leading and trailing edges of the keel stub. A survey should specifically examine the internal stringers and keel bolts for signs of stress or movement.
• Engine Maintenance: Many original units were fitted with the Volvo Penta 2003T. Buyers should check for exhaust manifold corrosion and the condition of the sail drive seal (if equipped), as these parts can be expensive and difficult to source.

Community & Resources

The most active technical community for these vessels is the Scanmar Owners Association, which maintains a repository of original brochures and technical drawings. While the original builder, Yachts of Scandinavia, is no longer in operation, the Scandinavian sailing community (particularly via Swedish technical wikis like Sailguide) remains the best source for identifying original equipment manufacturers for replacement parts.

The Verdict

The Scanmar 40 is a "sailor's boat" that trades modern interior volume for superior sea-kindliness and craftsmanship. It is an ideal choice for a couple looking for a high-quality, long-distance cruiser that can handle heavy weather with grace.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and hand-finished woodwork.
• High ballast ratio provides excellent stiffness and stability.
• Thoughtful "sea-going" layout with a private, full-beam aft cabin.
• Narrower hull form offers a gentler motion in rough seas compared to modern designs.

Cons:

• Large overlapping genoa requires significant physical effort to manage.
• Extremely limited production run makes sourcing model-specific information difficult.
• Lack of cockpit storage due to the volume occupied by the aft cabin.
• Original engine and plumbing systems likely require comprehensive updating.