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Sailboat Specifications

Bowman 42

Cutter · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by C. W. (Chuck) Paine · Built by Bowman Yachts · First built 1998

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LOA 43.08 ft  ·  Beam 12.58 ft  ·  Displacement 21,429.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 894.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Bowman 42 Sailboat

Built during the 1980s by Bowman Yachts in the UK, this 42-foot sailboat represents a solid entry in the performance cruiser category from an era when British boatbuilding was transitioning toward more modern construction techniques. The Bowman 42 emerged from a company that had established itself building quality racing and cruising yachts, though detailed specifications remain somewhat elusive in today's market. The design reflects typical late-1980s thinking about offshore cruising boats, likely featuring a moderate displacement hull with reasonable beam to provide both sailing performance and interior volume. Bowman yachts were generally known for their seaworthy characteristics and attention to sailing performance, making them appealing to sailors who wanted capability without sacrificing comfort. While not as common as some contemporary designs, the Bowman 42 would have been well-suited for coastal cruising and short-handed offshore passages. The boat's British heritage suggests robust construction standards appropriate for challenging sailing conditions. For today's buyers, finding one requires patience, but the design represents solid value for sailors seeking a capable offshore cruiser from an established builder with a reputation for creating boats that prioritize sailing ability alongside cruising comfort.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 43.08 ft / 13.13 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 32.75 ft / 9.98 m
Beam 12.58 ft / 3.83 m
Max Draft 6.50 ft / 1.98 m
Displacement 21,429.00 lb / 9,720 kg
Ballast 6,800.00 lb / 3,084 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 894.00 ft² / 83.06 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer C. W. (Chuck) Paine
Builder Bowman Yachts
First Built 1998
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 56
Fuel Capacity 85
Water Capacity 100
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bowman 42's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bowman 42 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.61. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bowman 42's comfort ratio?

The Bowman 42 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 31.7. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bowman 42 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bowman 42 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.82. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bowman 42?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bowman 42 is 7.67 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bowman 42 weigh?

The Bowman 42 has a displacement of 21,429.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 43.08 ft.

Who designed the Bowman 42?

The Bowman 42 was designed by C. W. (Chuck) Paine, first built in 1998.