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Sailboat Specifications

Gulfstar 40 Hood

Masthead Sloop · Keel/Cb & Spade Rudder

Designed by Ted Hood · Built by Gulfstar · First built 1976

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LOA 40.17 ft  ·  Beam 11.33 ft  ·  Displacement 24,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 766.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Keel/Cb & Spade Rudder
About the Gulfstar 40 Hood Sailboat

Built during Gulfstar's productive era of fiberglass sailboat manufacturing, this 40-foot cruising yacht represents the company's commitment to creating affordable, seaworthy vessels for the growing recreational sailing market. Gulfstar collaborated with renowned designer Ted Hood on this model, bringing his extensive racing and design expertise to bear on what became a well-regarded coastal cruiser. The Hood-designed hull combines moderate displacement characteristics with a comfortable interior layout suitable for extended cruising. Her design philosophy emphasizes practical sailing performance over pure speed, making her an excellent choice for couples or small families seeking reliable coastal passages and comfortable weekending. The boat's construction reflects Gulfstar's reputation for solid, no-nonsense fiberglass work that prioritized durability and value. While not built for racing, the Gulfstar 40 Hood offers respectable sailing performance with forgiving handling characteristics that appeal to both experienced sailors and those transitioning to larger boats. Her moderate beam and traditional lines provide adequate interior volume without sacrificing seaworthiness, making her equally at home on protected waters or moderate offshore passages along familiar coastlines.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 40.17 ft / 12.24 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 32.33 ft / 9.85 m
Beam 11.33 ft / 3.45 m
Max Draft 11.33 ft / 3.45 m
Min Draft 3.92 ft / 1.19 m
Displacement 24,000.00 lb / 10,886 kg
Ballast 12,500.00 lb / 5,670 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 766.00 ft² / 71.16 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Keel/CB & spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Ted Hood
Builder Gulfstar
First Built 1976
Last Built 1978
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 50
Fuel Capacity 65
Water Capacity 125
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Gulfstar 40 Hood's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Gulfstar 40 Hood has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.79. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Gulfstar 40 Hood's comfort ratio?

The Gulfstar 40 Hood has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 42.18. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Gulfstar 40 Hood safe for offshore sailing?

The Gulfstar 40 Hood has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.57. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Gulfstar 40 Hood?

The theoretical hull speed of the Gulfstar 40 Hood is 7.62 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Gulfstar 40 Hood weigh?

The Gulfstar 40 Hood has a displacement of 24,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 40.17 ft.

Who designed the Gulfstar 40 Hood?

The Gulfstar 40 Hood was designed by Ted Hood, first built in 1976.