Westsail 42 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Westsail 42 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, weighing in at approximately 31,500 pounds with 11,000 pounds of internal lead ballast. Its performance characteristics are defined by a high displacement-to-length (D/L) ratio, which translates to a motion that is remarkably stable and predictable in heavy weather. Unlike modern, light-displacement fin-keel yachts that tend to "skitter" over the waves, the Westsail 42 uses its mass to punch through head seas, providing a level of comfort that reduces crew fatigue during long passages.

Handling is governed by a long full keel that provides exceptional directional stability. Once the sails are trimmed, the 42 is known to track as if on rails, a trait highly valued by solo or short-handed sailors. According to technical documentation maintained by the Westsail Owners Association, the boat was originally offered with both ketch and cutter rig options. The ketch rig is particularly favored for offshore work as it breaks the sail plan into smaller, more manageable pieces, allowing the crew to maintain balance by dropping the mainsail and sailing under "jib and jigger" in high winds. However, it is not a light-air performer; the significant wetted surface area of the full keel requires a stiff breeze to overcome initial drag. In light winds, the engine—typically a Perkins 4-236 or similar high-torque diesel—is often necessary to maintain progress.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Westsail 42 shares its hull with its sibling, the Westsail 43. While the 42 is configured as an aft-cockpit vessel, the Westsail 43 features a center-cockpit layout. This shared hull architecture means that the 42 benefits from the same massive internal volume designed for the 43. The interior is characterized by a "salty" aesthetic, typically featuring heavy teak joinery, bronze ports, and deep, secure storage lockers.

In the standard aft-cockpit 42, the layout often includes a large V-berth forward, a spacious salon with a pilot berth, and a U-shaped galley that is widely considered one of the most seaworthy designs for cooking at heel. The primary difference between hulls lies in the "factory-finished" vs. "kit-finished" distinction. Roughly half of the Westsail fleet was delivered as "sailaway kits," where the owner completed the interior. Consequently, some 42s feature professional-grade cabinetry and logical plumbing, while others may have idiosyncratic electrical runs and non-standard layouts. Prospective buyers must evaluate each vessel's interior as a unique custom build. The headroom is generous throughout, often exceeding 6'4", which combined with the wide beam, creates a living space that feels significantly larger than its 42-foot length suggests.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Westsail 42, the "kit boat" legacy necessitates a thorough survey of the electrical and plumbing systems. Because these were often installed by amateurs, they may lack proper grounding or meet modern ABYC standards.

• Chainplate Integrity: The 42 utilizes heavy stainless steel chainplates. Given the age of these vessels, crevice corrosion is a concern, especially where the plates pass through the deck. Because the chainplates are often glassed into the hull or hidden behind cabinetry, inspection can be difficult but is vital.
• Deck Core and Teak: Many Westsails were built with teak decks screwed into a balsa or plywood core. Over decades, the thousands of screw holes can leak, leading to widespread core rot. Professional surveyors prioritize checking for "soft spots" or delamination around the windlass and stay sail tracks.
• Fuel Tank Corrosion: The original fuel tanks were often made of black iron and placed deep in the bilge or under the cabin sole. If moisture has been trapped against the exterior of the tank, they can corrode from the outside in. Replacing these tanks frequently requires major carpentry work, including cutting out sections of the sole.
• Rudder Bushings: The heavy, barn-door style rudder is attached to the trailing edge of the keel. Over time, the pintles and gudgeons can wear, leading to vibration or "slop" in the steering.

Community & Resources

The Westsail 42 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the maritime world. The Westsail Owners Association is the primary repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and refit guides. This organization is instrumental for owners of kit-built boats, as it provides the collective knowledge needed to maintain and upgrade systems that were never standardized by the factory. Additionally, specialized parts and expert advice are often sourced through Bud Taplin at World Cruising Yacht Works, who served as a key figure during the Westsail Corporation's original production run.

The Verdict

The Westsail 42 is a "tank" of the seas, built for the sailor who values safety and structural integrity over podium finishes. It remains a premier choice for those seeking a traditional aesthetic and a hull capable of surviving extreme conditions.

Pros:

• Exceptional heavy-weather stability and tracking.
• Massive interior volume and storage for long-term liveaboard use.
• Overbuilt fiberglass hull provides immense peace of mind.
• High resale value and a dedicated community for technical support.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light winds (less than 10-12 knots).
• High maintenance requirements if teak decks and extensive exterior brightwork are present.
• Significant variability in interior build quality due to the prevalence of kit boats.
• The heavy displacement makes the vessel less agile in tight marina maneuvers.