Design and Construction
The Whitby 42’s construction is generally sound for a coastal cruiser. The hull consists of alternating layers of fiberglass mat and woven roving in polyester resin. A balsa core extends from just below the sheer to about a foot below the static waterline. The decks use fiberglass cloth and mat over a balsa core and are fastened to the hull along an inward flange.
Whitby relied heavily on pop rivets to fasten structural components. On most boats, even the deck-to-hull joint is secured with pop rivets, fiberglass, and resin. As an extra-cost option, Whitby offered a completely through-bolted deck-to-hull joint, and some 42s were built this way.
The hull has fairly round sections, a 5-foot draft, and 23,000 pounds of displacement. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio is .34 on that displacement. This form favors volume and stability over racing finesse.
Rig, Sailing Performance, and Handling
Under sail, the Whitby 42 can be sluggish through tacks in light air. Windward performance is acceptable but not outstanding. On reaches and runs, however, she is a very respectable performer, particularly in moderate to heavy air. A mizzen staysail and spinnaker can improve light-air performance downwind.
Some boats were built with an optional bowsprit, while others have had one retrofitted. A bowsprit reportedly improves the boat’s balance and weatherly performance significantly. Overall, the ketch rig and modest draft suit a cruising couple, though light-air maneuvers call for patience.
Accommodations
The Whitby 42 is justifiably regarded as one of the most livable production boats in its size range. It has good-sized staterooms forward and aft, each with a large adjoining head and shower.
The spacious U-shaped galley is well positioned to keep the cook out of the way of passengers and crew. A large saloon, a comfortable navigation station, and even a workbench along the passageway between the navigation station and aft stateroom complete the practical interior.
For offshore use, however, the boat lacks good sea berths. Extra handholds are strongly advised if you plan to sail offshore.
Engine, Range, and Service Access
Auxiliary power comes from a 67 HP Ford Lehman diesel installed beneath the cockpit deck. The engine room is easy to access for routine service, and the cockpit sole can be removed if the engine ever needs replacement or a major overhaul.
The engine room is also large enough to accommodate a small auxiliary generator along the port side. A fuel capacity of more than 200 gallons provides a cruising range of over 1,200 miles without refueling—a generous figure for a 42-foot cruiser.
Known Issues
The Whitby 42 has several known weaknesses. Its pop-riveted fastenings are prone to working loose over time. Compression failures beneath the mizzen mast step result from the balsa core and inadequate structural support. The forward water tank also seems to develop persistent leaks around its lid.
The Verdict
The Whitby 42 is a thoughtfully laid-out cruiser with a strong liveaboard pedigree and enough range to wander far from fuel docks. Its construction is sound for a coastal cruiser, though buyers should respect the known weaknesses involving fastenings and the cored structure.
This is a boat that rewards a relaxed sailing style rather than aggressive light-air racing. Its interior remains a benchmark for boats of this size.
Pros
- One of the most livable production boats in its size range
- Easily serviced engine, with a removable cockpit sole and space for a generator
- Long-range cruising capability from more than 200 gallons of fuel
- A retrofitted bowsprit reportedly improves balance and weatherliness
Cons
- Sluggish through tacks in light air
- Pop rivets can work loose, and compression failures can occur beneath the mizzen mast step
- The forward water-tank lid is prone to persistent leaks
- No good sea berths for offshore use; additional handholds are strongly advised
