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Sailboat Specifications

Nicholson 40 Ac

Masthead Ketch · Fin With Rudder On Skeg

Designed by Camper & Nicholson · Built by Camper & Nicholson Ltd. · First built 1978

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LOA 40.00 ft  ·  Beam 11.50 ft  ·  Displacement 24,416.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 940.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Ketch  ·  Fin With Rudder On Skeg
About the Nicholson 40 Ac Sailboat

Built by the renowned British yard Camper & Nicholsons, the Nicholson 40 AC carries the kind of pedigree that serious offshore sailors have long respected. Camper & Nicholsons brought centuries of shipbuilding expertise to their production sailboat range, and the 40 AC reflects that heritage with a hull designed for confident blue-water passage-making as much as extended coastal cruising. With a reputation for solid construction and seaworthy manners, the Nicholson 40 AC appeals to sailors who prioritise safety and reliability over flashy performance. Her hull form is built to handle the open ocean with composure, making her a natural choice for those planning longer offshore passages or simply seeking a capable cruising platform they can trust in varied conditions. Below decks, Nicholsons were known for well-considered layouts that balanced practical liveaboard comfort with genuine sailing functionality. While detailed specifications can be limited for this model, the Nicholson name alone signals a boat worth investigating thoroughly. For buyers seeking a classic British offshore cruiser with a strong reputation behind her, the 40 AC is a compelling candidate deserving closer inspection.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 40.00 ft / 12.19 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 30.50 ft / 9.30 m
Beam 11.50 ft / 3.51 m
Max Draft 5.75 ft / 1.75 m
Displacement 24,416.00 lb / 11,075 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 940.00 ft² / 87.33 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Camper & Nicholson
Builder Camper & Nicholson Ltd.
First Built 1978
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Nicholson 40 Ac's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Nicholson 40 Ac has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 17.94. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Nicholson 40 Ac's comfort ratio?

The Nicholson 40 Ac has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 43.75. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Nicholson 40 Ac safe for offshore sailing?

The Nicholson 40 Ac has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.59. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Nicholson 40 Ac?

The theoretical hull speed of the Nicholson 40 Ac is 7.4 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Nicholson 40 Ac weigh?

The Nicholson 40 Ac has a displacement of 24,416.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 40.00 ft.

Who designed the Nicholson 40 Ac?

The Nicholson 40 Ac was designed by Camper & Nicholson, first built in 1978.