FREEDOM 42
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42 ft |
| LWL | 39.5 ft |
| Beam | 13.42 ft |
| Draft | 6 ft |
| Displacement | 24,000 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 38 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 13.83 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 56.83 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 18.5 ft |
| FLforestay | 13.8 ft |
| Mainsail | 830.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 262.8 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 446.7 sq ft |
About the FREEDOM 42
Designed by Gary Mull and built by Tillotson Pearson Inc in 1987, the Freedom 42 is a substantial cruising sloop with a displacement of 24000.0 lb. While the exact hull count is unknown, this model represents a specific era of American production characterized by robust construction and fractional sloop rigging.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize comfort and stability, evidenced by a high comfort ratio of 29.01 and a displacement of 24000.0 lb. It is well-suited for couples or families seeking a stable platform with ample interior volume, rather than high-performance racing.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.86 and a heavy displacement of 24000.0 lb, the Freedom 42 is well-suited for bluewater cruising, offering excellent stability and seakeeping in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Pearson 424 and other late-80s American cruising sloops with similar beam (13.42 ft) and displacement characteristics. These vessels share the Freedom 42's focus on interior comfort and moderate sail area-to-displacement ratio (15.21), prioritizing ease of handling over speed.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FREEDOM 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
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the FREEDOM 42, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FREEDOM 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 2 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 FREEDOM 42?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the FREEDOM 42
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…