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Sailboat Specifications

Irwin 40 Citation

Masthead Sloop · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Ted Irwin · Built by Irwin Yachts · First built 1978

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LOA 40.83 ft  ·  Beam 12.17 ft  ·  Displacement 16,890.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 738.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Irwin 40 Citation Sailboat

Built during Irwin Yachts' productive era in the 1980s, this 40-foot sailboat represents the company's commitment to creating affordable cruising vessels for American sailors. The Citation was designed as a comfortable coastal cruiser, emphasizing interior volume and ease of handling over racing performance. Like other Irwin designs from this period, the Citation features a moderate displacement hull with a fin keel and spade rudder configuration that provides decent sailing performance while maintaining stability and predictable handling characteristics. The boat's beam and interior layout prioritize comfort below decks, making it well-suited for extended coastal cruising and live-aboard situations. Irwin boats from this era gained a reputation for being budget-friendly alternatives to higher-end production cruisers, offering good value for sailors seeking their first larger boat or a comfortable platform for weekend and vacation sailing. While not built to the same standards as premium manufacturers, the Citation provides adequate performance for coastal waters and protected offshore passages. The design reflects typical 1980s cruising priorities, with emphasis on interior space, comfortable accommodations, and user-friendly sail handling systems that make the boat manageable for couples or small crews.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 40.83 ft / 12.44 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 31.17 ft / 9.50 m
Beam 12.17 ft / 3.71 m
Max Draft 6.30 ft / 1.92 m
Displacement 16,890.00 lb / 7,661 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 738.00 ft² / 68.56 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Ted Irwin
Builder Irwin Yachts
First Built 1978
Related Sailboats Irwin 40 Mkii · Irwin 41 Citation · J/40 · Caliber 40 Lrc
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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 40
Water Capacity 90
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Irwin 40 Citation's sail area to displacement ratio?

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

What is the Irwin 40 Citation's comfort ratio?

The Irwin 40 Citation has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 27.47. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Irwin 40 Citation safe for offshore sailing?

The Irwin 40 Citation has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.9. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Irwin 40 Citation?

The theoretical hull speed of the Irwin 40 Citation is 7.48 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Irwin 40 Citation weigh?

The Irwin 40 Citation has a displacement of 16,890.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 40.83 ft.

Who designed the Irwin 40 Citation?

The Irwin 40 Citation was designed by Ted Irwin, first built in 1978.