TM 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The TM 42 is frequently lauded for its "slippery" hull form, a hallmark of Tanton Yacht Design. With a displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio typically in the 240 range and a sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio approaching 19, the boat performs with surprising agility for a 42-foot cruiser. It is designed to be easily driven in light airs while maintaining a stiff, predictable posture as the wind builds.

Handling is defined by a deep-finned keel and a large spade rudder, which provide exceptional tracking and responsiveness. Owners often note that the boat exhibits minimal weather helm, even when pressed, thanks to the balanced volume distribution in the ends. While some units were rigged as conventional sloops or cutters, Tanton is well-known for pioneering the unstayed cat-ketch or wishbone ketch configurations; however, the TM 42 production series most commonly features a robust, deck-stepped masthead sloop rig that caters to the preferences of the broader offshore cruising community.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Beneath the deck, the TM 42 leverages its 13-foot beam to provide a voluminous living space that rivals many 45-foot yachts of the same vintage. The standard layout typically features a large forward V-berth with an en-suite head, a spacious main salon with a U-shaped settee to port, and a substantial galley. The use of high-quality European joinery—often teak or mahogany—gives the interior a warm, traditional feel, while the numerous ports and hatches ensure adequate ventilation, a critical factor for tropical cruising.

Sibling models include the smaller TM 34 and the slightly larger TM 43 and TM 44 models. The TM 42 itself was often subject to semi-custom interior finishes, meaning that buyer’s may encounter variations in the nav station orientation or the configuration of the aft quarter-berth. In some layouts, the galley is positioned as a longitudinal passage to the aft cabin, providing excellent security for the cook while underway.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the TM 42 with the technical scrutiny required for a vessel of its age and pedigree. High-signal areas for inspection include:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many GRP yachts from the 1980s and 90s, the TM 42 utilizes a balsa or foam-cored deck. Moisture ingress around stanchion bases and chainplates is a common technical "gotcha" that can lead to delamination if left unchecked.
• Bulkhead Bonding: Inspect the tabbing where the main bulkheads meet the hull. In high-performance cruisers that have seen heavy offshore use, the stress of the rig can occasionally cause minor separation or movement in these structural joints.
• Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder places significant stress on the upper and lower bearings. Check for excessive "play" or stiffness in the steering system, which may indicate worn bushings or a bent rudder post.
• Engine Access: While the engine is generally well-housed, access for servicing the heat exchanger and water pump can be tight in certain interior configurations; ensure the insulation is still intact and the mounts are firm.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and design history is Tanton Yacht Design, which maintains an archive of Yves Tanton’s various projects. While a dedicated owner's association is decentralized, owners often congregate in broader offshore cruising groups to discuss the nuances of Technomarine’s build techniques.

The Verdict

The TM 42 remains a compelling choice for the sailor who values performance and pedigree over mass-market branding.

Pros:

• Excellent performance-to-comfort ratio for offshore work.
• Balanced hull design that minimizes fatigue for the helmsperson.
• High-quality interior volume and joinery.
• Strong structural build typical of the Technomarine yard.

Cons:

• Relatively rare on the brokerage market, making parts-sourcing specialized.
• Spade rudder design requires careful inspection of the post and bearings.
• The 6.5-foot draft may be restrictive in shallow cruising grounds like the Bahamas.