Southerly 42 Rst Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The 42 RST is defined by its variable draft, which ranges from a deep 8' 11" (2.72m) with the keel fully lowered to a remarkable 2' 9" (0.84m) when retracted. Unlike many older swing-keel designs that utilized a flat plate, the Humphreys-designed foil is aerofoil-shaped and cast from lead with an integral steel frame. This provides a high level of lift and allows the boat to point surprisingly well for a cruising yacht. When the keel is lowered, the boat exhibits a high ballast ratio, as the heavy cast-iron grounding plate (into which the keel retracts) provides a low center of gravity that remains effective even when the keel is raised for downwind sailing.

Handling is further refined by a twin-rudder configuration. According to editorial testing by Yachting Monthly, the twin rudders provide exceptional grip and "feel" when the boat is heeled, preventing the rounding-up common in wide-beamed, single-rudder yachts. The twin-rudder setup also allows the boat to remain steerable even in very shallow water. Under power, the 42 RST typically features a 50hp or 55hp Yanmar engine; however, owners should note that the twin rudders do not benefit from prop-wash at low speeds, making the optional bow thruster almost essential for tight marina maneuvers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the 42 RST is built around the "raised-saloon" concept, a signature of Northshore Yachts that allows for panoramic views while seated. The keel box is a central structural feature, but it is cleverly integrated into the cabinetry, often serving as a natural divider between the galley and the seating area without obstructing the flow of the cabin. The standard layout features a large owner’s cabin aft, taking full advantage of the boat's 13' 3" beam to provide a centerline island berth and private en-suite head.

Variations in the model are most visible when comparing the 42 RST to its sibling, the Southerly 420. While the hulls are identical, the 420 features a taller coachroof and larger windows, which some traditionalists find less sleek than the 42 RST’s lower profile. Inside, the 42 RST often utilized cherry or light oak joinery, providing a bright, airy atmosphere. A secondary guest cabin is located forward with a V-berth, and many hulls were specified with a third, smaller cabin featuring bunk beds, specifically designed for families or those sailing with additional crew.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

The complexity of the lifting keel mechanism requires specific attention during a pre-purchase survey. While the system is robust, several areas are known to require maintenance:

• Keel Pennants and Hydraulics: The keel is raised via a hydraulic ram and high-strength pennants. Buyers should check for fraying in the cables and any signs of weeping from the hydraulic seals. It is recommended that the keel be cycled several times during a sea trial to ensure smooth operation.
• Grounding Plate Corrosion: The heavy cast-iron plate that protects the hull when drying out is susceptible to surface corrosion if the epoxy coating is breached. While rarely structural, it can lead to unsightly "bleeding" and requires regular maintenance during haul-outs.
• Pivot Pin Wear: The stainless steel pin upon which the keel swings can experience wear over decades of use. Any "clunking" sounds while sailing in a seaway may indicate that the bushings or the pin itself require replacement.
• Twin Rudder Alignment: The linkage between the twin rudders and the wheel can develop play over time. Prospective buyers should inspect the steering quadrant and tie-bars for tightness and lubrication.

Community & Resources

The most significant resource for owners is the Southerly Owners Association (SOA). This group maintains an extensive technical library and organizes rallies across Europe and North America. Because Northshore Yachts underwent several ownership changes, the SOA is often the primary source for original wiring diagrams and keel assembly blueprints.

The Verdict

The Southerly 42 RST is a masterclass in compromise-free cruising, offering the blue-water capabilities of a fixed-keel yacht with the unique ability to explore "thin water" destinations. While the mechanical complexity of the keel requires a more rigorous maintenance schedule, the reward is a vessel that can cross oceans and still park in a creek where other 40-footers fear to tread.

Pros:

• Unrivaled versatility with a minimum draft of under 3 feet.
• Category A Ocean rating ensures high safety margins for offshore passages.
• Twin rudders provide excellent control and stability under heel.
• Raised saloon provides exceptional natural light and visibility.

Cons:

• Keel maintenance (hydraulics and pennants) adds to annual operating costs.
• Twin rudders offer no prop-wash for low-speed maneuvering without a thruster.
• The keel box, while well-disguised, does dictate the interior flow of the saloon.