ABLE 42
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42 ft |
| LWL | 32.67 ft |
| Beam | 12.67 ft |
| Draft | 5.17 ft |
| Displacement | 21,678 lb |
| Ballast | 4,979.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.7 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 53.5 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 16.75 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 47.58 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.83 ft |
| FLforestay | 16.8 ft |
| Mainsail | 829.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 448.1 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 761.7 sq ft |
About the ABLE 42
The Able 42 is a Chuck Paine-designed masthead sloop built by Able Marine in 1989. With a displacement of 21678.0 lb and a beam of 12.67 ft, it represents a substantial, heavy-displacement cruising platform from the late 1980s.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for serious coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize stability and comfort over high-speed performance, particularly those interested in self-sufficiency given the high prevalence of solar panel installations.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.82 and a high displacement of 21678.0 lb, the Able 42 exhibits strong inherent stability and motion comfort, making it well-suited for bluewater passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and the Tartan 42, as they share similar heavy displacement, beamy hull forms, and a focus on comfortable, stable cruising rather than racing performance.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the ABLE 42 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 42ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the ABLE 42, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a ABLE 42? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 4 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your ABLE 42?
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Used sails that fit the ABLE 42
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