MARTIN 242

About the MARTIN 242

The MARTIN 242 was still in production as of 2010.

Designed by Don Martin and built by Martin Yachts (CAN)/MG Marine (USA), the Martin 242 is a compact fractional sloop with 350 hulls built in 1980. Its lightweight displacement of 2500.0 lb and high SA/D ratio of 24.38 indicate a performance-oriented design intended for active sailing rather than heavy displacement cruising.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend racers who prioritize speed and maneuverability in protected waters, as well as single-handers seeking a manageable fractional sloop rig. Its light displacement and fin keel make it ideal for trailerable use and shallow-water access rather than heavy offshore passage-making.

Bluewater capability:

With a low displacement of 2500.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.36, the Martin 242 is not well-suited for extended bluewater voyaging due to its light weight and limited reserve buoyancy. Its design favors coastal and bay sailing where its speed and handling advantages are maximized without exposing its structural vulnerabilities to heavy ocean swells.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include the Catalina 25 and O'Day 25, which share similar fractional sloop rigs and light-displacement performance characteristics from the early 1980s. The Cal 25 is also a relevant comparison for those seeking a slightly heavier, more traditional cruiser-racer from the same era.