Taylor 40-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Taylor 40-2 is a sophisticated performer that rewards an active hand. Utilizing a high-aspect masthead rig and a fin keel with a balanced spade rudder, the vessel displays the agility typical of Stephen Killing’s racing pedigree. The hull features a relatively narrow beam compared to modern wide-transom designs, which aids in its ability to track effectively and maintain a high degree of "groove" when sailing upwind. Technical specifications suggest a Displacement/Length ratio that leans toward the performance-cruising end of the spectrum, allowing the boat to remain stiff in a breeze while having enough light-air canvas to stay moving in the doldrums.

Owner reports from the Great Lakes region often highlight the boat’s sea-kindliness in short, steep chops—a byproduct of its Canadian design roots. Unlike many of its IOR-influenced contemporaries, the Taylor 40-2 does not exhibit the same "death roll" tendencies when sailing off the wind, thanks to a more refined underwater profile. The boat feels most at home in 12 to 20 knots of breeze, where its lead ballast provides significant righting moment, allowing the skipper to carry full sail longer than in lighter-built production boats.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Taylor 40-2 reflects a transition from the utilitarian "pipe-cot" racing interiors of the early 1980s toward a more luxurious, teak-heavy aesthetic. The layout typically features a traditional two-cabin configuration: a generous V-berth forward and a private aft cabin tucked behind the galley. J.J. Taylor utilized hand-rubbed teak throughout, creating a warm, classic atmosphere that stands in contrast to the modern "Ikea-style" interiors of contemporary yachts.

The 40-2 variant specifically improved upon the original Taylor 40 by increasing the volume of the galley and refining the navigation station. The galley is often equipped with deep double sinks and significant refrigeration capacity, tailored for extended cruising. Headroom is ample throughout the main salon, usually exceeding 6'3", which was a notable selling point for the model. Sibling variations are few, but some hulls were semi-customized for racing circuits, featuring deeper keels and more Spartan interiors to reduce weight. The primary "sibling" remains the original Taylor 40; the 40-2 is distinguished by its more cruiser-friendly deck layout and improved deck-to-hull sealing methods.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Taylor 40-2 with a focus on its advanced (for the time) construction materials. While the hulls are generally considered robust, several areas require specific scrutiny:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Canadian-built boats of this era, the Taylor 40-2 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should use a moisture meter around stanchion bases and the windlass, as leaks in these areas can lead to localized delamination.
• Rod Rigging: Many Taylor 40-2s were delivered with rod rigging to satisfy performance requirements. If the rigging is original, it is well past its service life and requires a thorough dye-penetrant inspection or full replacement.
• Engine Access: While the interior is comfortable, the engine compartment (typically housing a Universal or Westerbeke diesel) can be tight. Check for evidence of neglected maintenance on the heat exchanger and raw water pump, which can be difficult to reach.
• Rudder Bearings: The balanced spade rudder is highly effective but puts significant stress on the upper and lower bearings. Any "thumping" or play in the wheel while under power should be investigated.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Taylor 40-2 often find a home within the broader community of J.J. Taylor enthusiasts. While there is no dedicated Taylor 40-2 class association due to the limited production run, technical support is frequently found through the Contessa 26 and 32 Associations, as these owners share the same pedigree of J.J. Taylor craftsmanship. Furthermore, because the boat was designed by Stephen Killing, technical drawings and design insights are occasionally available through Stephen Killing Yacht Design, which maintains an archive of his historical projects.

The Verdict

The Taylor 40-2 is a "connoisseur’s cruiser," offering a rare blend of Canadian build quality and performance-oriented naval architecture. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who prioritizes sailing sensation and build integrity over the voluminous "caravan" style of modern production boats.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and tracking.
• High-quality Canadian craftsmanship with premium teak joinery.
• Vacuum-bagged hull construction provides a stiff, durable platform.
• Classic, timeless aesthetic that stands out in a sea of modern designs.

Cons:

• Relatively narrow interior volume compared to modern 40-footers.
• High maintenance requirements for rod rigging and aging teak.
• Limited availability on the brokerage market due to small production numbers.