It features a spooned raked stem, a raised counter reverse transom, a keel-mounted rudder controlled by an Edson wheel and a fixed modified long keel, with a cutaway forefoot.

Many options, including a yawl rig, and several interior layouts are available for the owner who favors cruising.

This boat, with its long bow and counter and full keel, is not for round-the-marker sailing, but it will do well on longer races.

The hull shape is designed for reaching and the 40 has won its class in the Marion to Bermuda race twice.

Owners report that reefing early is the best way to deal with the initial tenderness and keep the boat on its lines.

Upwind, the centerboard helps the boat track, and while it is not particularly close winded, it doesn't make a lot of leeway and the motion is soft."

The yawl, like the centerboard, was favored by the CCA rule because sail area aft of the rudder post was not counted in your rating.