Design and Construction
Sweden Yachts earned a reputation for top-quality construction, and the 42 reflects that standard. Most of the interior woodwork is mahogany, and one reviewer ranked the attention to detail throughout the boat among the highest quality we’ve seen.
The deck is kept as clear as possible without compromising sailing or safety equipment. Sweeping teak decking provides a luxurious surface underfoot. In the cockpit, a massive stainless-steel wheel covered in elkhide sits well aft, reinforcing the deliberate separation between crew space and the working deck.
Rig and Handling
The 42 has a fractional sloop rig with a 19.5-meter mast, a 52-square-meter mainsail, and a self-tacking jib of about 34 square meters. Most control lines lead aft to the cockpit, making the rig easy to manage, particularly when sailing shorthanded.
Jan Nilsson of Sweden Yachts described the design as fun to sail and easy to handle, and several new owners had already ordered racing sails. Although primarily a cruising boat, the 42 has a definite high-performance feel. The builder called her a fast sailyacht that performs beyond expectations and offers more performance per foot.
Accommodations
The standard layout includes three double berths, a comfortable dining area, an L-shaped galley, a navigation table, and two shower rooms. The master cabin is forward of the saloon and has an ensuite with a shower in the bow, plus an overhead hatch for light. Two further double berths are aft, served by a separate heads and shower with plenty of stowage.
There’s ample headroom below, while large hatch covers make the interior feel exceptionally light and spacious. The builder described the layout as both practical and spacious and said it could be altered to suit each customer.
Engine and Systems
The engine sits beneath the cockpit, just aft of the cockpit steps, and is easily accessible from the main saloon. The published specifications differ: the builder listed a 60 hp Volvo Penta D2-60, while Yachting World described a 55 hp unit.
Tankage is generous and practical, with roughly 425 liters of water, 280 liters of diesel, a 40-liter water heater, and two 60-liter holding tanks. All tanks are stainless steel.
Verdict
The Sweden Yachts 42 is a thoroughly considered cruiser/racer that wears its serious-yachtsman brief openly. Its high-quality finish, shorthanded-friendly rig, and light, three-cabin interior support a coherent aim: a 42-footer designed to sail beyond expectations without giving up livability.
Pros
- High-performance feel, with a self-tacking, shorthanded-friendly rig and most controls led aft
- Exceptional interior finish, including mahogany woodwork
- Light, spacious accommodations with three double cabins
- Easily accessible engine
- All-stainless tankage with strong water and fuel capacity
- Customizable layout on a proven Norlin cruiser/racer platform
Cons
- Teak decking requires disciplined maintenance to preserve its luxurious surface
- Conflicting documented engine ratings—60 hp in the builder’s specification and 55 hp in the review—leave a minor ambiguity
