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Sailboat Specifications

Comanche 42 Chris Craft

Fractional Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Sparkman & Stephens · Built by Chris-Craft (Usa) · First built 1968

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LOA 42.00 ft  ·  Beam 10.83 ft  ·  Displacement 17,641.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 746.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Comanche 42 Chris Craft Sailboat

Built during Chris-Craft's brief foray into serious sailing yachts, the Comanche 42 represents a fascinating collaboration between the legendary Sparkman & Stephens design house and America's most famous powerboat manufacturer. Only 25 hulls were completed between 1968 and 1970, making this fractional sloop a rare find in today's market. The design showcases classic S&S DNA with its moderate fin keel and skeg-hung rudder configuration, delivering predictable handling characteristics that inspire confidence in both coastal and offshore conditions. With a comfort ratio of 33.75 and substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, the Comanche 42 offers the stability and seaworthiness expected from this prestigious design pedigree. Her fiberglass construction was progressive for the era, and the hull's proportions suggest capable performance under sail with respectable hull speed potential. The moderate sail area and conservative design philosophy make this yacht well-suited for serious cruising, whether exploring coastal waters or embarking on longer passages. Today, the Comanche 42 appeals to sailors seeking a classic design with proven offshore capability and the cachet of Sparkman & Stephens bloodlines. Her rarity adds collectible appeal, while the robust construction typical of both designer and builder promises longevity for the discerning owner.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 42.00 ft / 12.80 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.33 ft / 9.24 m
Beam 10.83 ft / 3.30 m
Max Draft 6.50 ft / 1.98 m
Displacement 17,641.00 lb / 8,002 kg
Ballast 8,630.00 lb / 3,915 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 746.00 ft² / 69.31 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Sparkman & Stephens
Builder Chris-Craft (USA)
First Built 1968
Last Built 1970
Number Built 25
Related Sailboats Morgan 42 1 · Morgan 42 2 · Tartan 42 · Swan 42 · Pearson 422
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Universal
Engine Model Atomic 4
Engine Type Gas
Fuel Capacity 25 gals / 95 L
Water Capacity 70 gals / 265 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Comanche 42 Chris Craft's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Comanche 42 Chris Craft has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.68. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Comanche 42 Chris Craft's comfort ratio?

The Comanche 42 Chris Craft has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 33.75. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Comanche 42 Chris Craft safe for offshore sailing?

The Comanche 42 Chris Craft has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.67. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Comanche 42 Chris Craft?

The theoretical hull speed of the Comanche 42 Chris Craft is 7.38 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Comanche 42 Chris Craft weigh?

The Comanche 42 Chris Craft has a displacement of 17,641.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 42.00 ft.

Who designed the Comanche 42 Chris Craft?

The Comanche 42 Chris Craft was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1968.