When the folks at Hinckley Yachts decided to build a daysailer, they reasoned that, given the runaway success of the Bruce King–designed jet boats, he should create its sailing counterpart. The design process was empirical: Deciding that all the desiderata for a daysailer would fit within a 30-foot waterline, they asked King to "just draw out the lines until she looked right." The convergence of low freeboard, long ends and that subjective "just right" feel came together at 42 feet (13 meters) overall. According to Hinckley staff, it was a pleasure developing a boat untrammeled by compromises.

As for the seemingly unnecessary complication of a lifting keel, I was told that the DS42 was designed with summer conditions—typically light winds—in mind. This dictated a generous sail area, which in turn required sufficient stability, best provided by a bulb keel. A practical daysailer, however, has to be able to poke into small coves and shallow waters, hence the lifting keel.

Her Solomon electric drive consists of a bank of batteries driving an electric motor. A soundproofed generator keeps the batteries charged, and regenerative charging is also provided by the spinning propeller while sailing. The result is impressively quiet operation. The available diesel power option won’t intrude on your enjoyment either. (Click image to enlarge)

Sailing the DS42 means pushing a few buttons and tailing the occasional sheet. She has in-boom mainsail furling, a roller jib—everything is electric or hydraulic (the single-part mainsheet leads below to a hydraulic 6:1 reverse purchase)—and once under way, the helmsperson can easily trim sails, leaving the commodious cockpit free for guests to enjoy. A carbon mast and boom enhance performance.

Belowdecks, the DS42 offers comfortable sitting head-room in a lovely varnished cherry interior. A small but efficient galley, comfortable berths for a couple, and a head with hot and cold pressure water ensure that if your afternoon out becomes too enjoyable and the sheltered cove to starboard beckons, you can give in to temptation without worrying about your comfort.

Hinckley Yachts
207-244-5531
sales@hinckleyyachts.com