
GOLDEN WAVE 42
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42 ft |
| LWL | 34.33 ft |
| Beam | 12.67 ft |
| Draft | 6.2 ft |
| Displacement | 25,000 lb |
| Ballast | 9,485 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 57 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 17 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 51.2 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 16 ft |
| FLforestay | 17 ft |
| Mainsail | 926.9 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 484.5 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 823.7 sq ft |
About the GOLDEN WAVE 42
Designed by Robert Perry and built by Cheoy Lee Shipyard Ltd.(HK) between 1981 and 1983, the Golden Wave 42 is a rare, heavy-displacement cruising sloop with only 22 hulls produced. Its substantial 25000.0 lb displacement and 9485.0 lb ballast reflect a design philosophy prioritizing seakindliness and stability over speed.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for serious bluewater cruisers and offshore passagemakers who value a solid, motion-dampened ride and are prepared to manage the maintenance demands of a heavy, fin-keel vessel from the early 1980s.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.74 and a displacement/length ratio of 275.85, the Golden Wave 42 exhibits strong inherent stability and heavy-weather resilience, making it well-regarded for offshore passages despite its age.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and O'Day 42, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and coastal/offshore cruising roles, though the Golden Wave 42 distinguishes itself with Robert Perry's performance-oriented hull form and Cheoy Lee construction quality.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 42ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
20 reported issues across 8 systems for the GOLDEN WAVE 42, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a GOLDEN WAVE 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 20 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
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Used sails that fit the GOLDEN WAVE 42
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