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Sailboat Specifications

Achilles 840

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Chris Butler · Built by Butler Achilles Ltd (Uk) · First built 1979

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LOA 27.75 ft  ·  Beam 9.00 ft  ·  Displacement 5,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 354.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Achilles 840 Sailboat

Designed by Chris Butler and built by Butler Achilles Ltd in the UK starting in 1979, this 27.75-foot sailboat represents solid British craftsmanship from an era when builders focused on seaworthiness over speed. The Achilles 840 features a moderate fin keel with rudder on skeg configuration that provides good directional stability and balanced helm characteristics. With a displacement of 5,500 pounds and ballast ratio of 45.5%, this masthead sloop offers reassuring stability for coastal cruising and short offshore passages. The comfort ratio of 18 indicates a relatively stiff, quick motion that experienced sailors will appreciate, while the capsize screening value of 2.04 suggests reasonable stability for offshore work, though prudent seamanship remains essential. The fiberglass hull with balsa-cored deck construction provides good strength-to-weight ratio and insulation properties. Her sail area to displacement ratio of 18.23 delivers respectable performance in moderate conditions, while the hull speed of 6.6 knots sets realistic expectations for passage planning. Best suited for coastal cruising, club racing, and occasional offshore adventures, the Achilles 840 appeals to sailors seeking a well-built, traditionally-proportioned yacht that prioritizes seaworthiness over outright speed. The modest 9.5 horsepower auxiliary engine provides reliable backup power for harbor maneuvering and calm weather motoring.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 27.75 ft / 8.46 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 24.25 ft / 7.39 m
Beam 9.00 ft / 2.74 m
Max Draft 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 5,500.00 lb / 2,495 kg
Ballast 2,505.00 lb / 1,136 kg
Ballast Type Iron
Sail Area (Reported) 354.00 ft² / 32.89 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG/balsa core deck
Designer Chris Butler
Builder Butler Achilles Ltd (UK)
First Built 1979
Associations Achilles Yachts Owners Assoc.
Related Sailboats Varne 850 · Contessa 28 · Etap 28 · Lancer 28 · Tanzer 85
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo
Engine Model 2001
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 9.5
Fuel Capacity 26 gals / 98 L
Water Capacity 18 gals / 68 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Achilles 840's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Achilles 840 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.23. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Achilles 840's comfort ratio?

The Achilles 840 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Achilles 840 safe for offshore sailing?

The Achilles 840 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.04. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Achilles 840?

The theoretical hull speed of the Achilles 840 is 6.60 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Achilles 840 weigh?

The Achilles 840 has a displacement of 5,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 27.75 ft.

Who designed the Achilles 840?

The Achilles 840 was designed by Chris Butler, first built in 1979.