IRWIN 42
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 42 ft |
| LWL | 35.08 ft |
| Beam | 13.33 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 29,000 lb |
| Ballast | 12,000.2 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.9 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 50 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 19 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 43.5 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 15.75 ft |
| PYmizzen luff | 29 ft |
| EYmizzen foot | 9.75 ft |
| FLforestay | 19 ft |
| Mainsail | 933.1 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 475 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 807.5 sq ft |
| SA total | 959 sq ft |
Engine
| Commonly | Perkins, Yanmar, Westerbeke, Vetus, Ford |
About the IRWIN 42
Available as sloop or ketch. KETCH RIG: I: 50.0' J: 19.0' P: 43.5' E: 15.75' PY: 29.0' Tot. SA: 959.0 sq.ft./89.09 m2
Designed by Ted Irwin and built by Irwin Yachts (USA) in 1976, the Irwin 42 is a robust masthead sloop with a displacement of 29000.0 lb and a beam of 13.33 ft. While the exact hull count is unknown, this model represents a significant era of American production yachts known for heavy construction and traditional cruising comfort.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal and offshore cruisers who prioritize stability and comfort, evidenced by a high comfort ratio of 38.32 and a low capsize ratio of 1.74. It appeals to owners willing to maintain classic systems, as the fleet shows a mix of modern engine swaps (Yamaha, Yanmar) and traditional sail inventories (North, Hood).
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 29000.0 lb and a D/L ratio of 299.9, the Irwin 42 is well-suited for bluewater cruising, offering substantial motion comfort and stability in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 40 and O'Day 42, which share similar production eras and heavy-displacement cruising characteristics. These vessels are comparable due to their shared focus on interior volume, fin keels, and masthead sloop rigs designed for safe, comfortable passage-making.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the IRWIN 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
9 reported issues across 5 systems for the IRWIN 42, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a IRWIN 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 9 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 IRWIN 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: Perkins, Yanmar, Westerbeke, Vetus — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the IRWIN 42
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…