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Sailboat Specifications

Rainbow 42

Fractional Sloop · Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder

Designed by Frans Harter · Built by Farsø Glasfiber · First built 1986

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LOA 41.96 ft  ·  Beam 12.30 ft  ·  Displacement 8,377.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 808.00 ft²  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder
About the Rainbow 42 Sailboat

Bearing the Rainbow name, the 42 is a cruising sailboat that reflects the broader Rainbow lineup's focus on practical, comfortable sailing for bluewater and coastal passages alike. While detailed specifications for this model are limited, boats in the 42-foot range from this builder are generally well-regarded among sailors seeking a capable and seaworthy cruiser that balances performance with liveability. At this size, the Rainbow 42 would be well suited to extended coastal cruising and offshore passages, offering enough volume for comfortable accommodations while remaining manageable for a small crew or experienced couple. Boats in this class typically feature a solid construction philosophy with an emphasis on stability and dependable handling across a range of wind and sea conditions. For those researching this model, tracking down owner forums, original builder documentation, or archived boat show reviews would be worthwhile steps toward filling in the gaps. As with any used cruising sailboat in this category, a thorough survey is essential. The Rainbow 42 represents an interesting option for sailors prioritizing blue-water readiness and cruising comfort over outright racing performance.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 41.96 ft / 12.79 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 36.42 ft / 11.10 m
Beam 12.30 ft / 3.75 m
Max Draft 7.87 ft / 2.40 m
Displacement 8,377.00 lb / 3,800 kg
Ballast 3,108.00 lb / 1,410 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 808.00 ft² / 75.07 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Frans Harter
Builder Farsø Glasfiber
First Built 1986
Owner Reviews

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Rainbow 42 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 31.44. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Rainbow 42's comfort ratio?

The Rainbow 42 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 12.02. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Rainbow 42 safe for offshore sailing?

The Rainbow 42 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.43. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Rainbow 42?

The theoretical hull speed of the Rainbow 42 is 8.09 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Rainbow 42 weigh?

The Rainbow 42 has a displacement of 8,377.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 41.96 ft.

Who designed the Rainbow 42?

The Rainbow 42 was designed by Frans Harter, first built in 1986.