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176data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE) buyer’s report
MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)

MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)

A. H. Moody & Son Ltd.πŸ‡¬πŸ‡§Β· Design: Angus Primrose
1978–198156 built
$2.7K – $7.1K est. annual maintenance
Offshore CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA39.5 ft
LWL32.5 ft
Beam13.33 ft
Draft5.5 ft
Displacement18,150 lb
Ballast6,679.2 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL7.6 kn

About the MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)

This MOODY 40 is based on the MOODY 39 with a larger aft cabin and different cockpit layout. A later MOODY 40 (1996) is an entirely different design.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Angus Primrose and built by A. H. Moody & Son Ltd. (UK) between 1978–1981, the Moody 40 (Primrose) is a robust coastal cruiser with a total production of 56 hulls. Its heavy displacement and solid construction reflect the high-quality British boatbuilding standards of the late 1970s, resulting in a vessel known for its stability and comfortable motion.

Best for:
This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and those seeking a stable, comfortable passage-making vessel, particularly those who prioritize a secure interior layout and reliable performance over high-speed planing. It appeals to owners willing to invest in modernizing systems, as evidenced by the high prevalence of bow thrusters and solar panel installations in the fleet.
Bluewater capability:
With a displacement of 18150.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 2.03, the Moody 40 demonstrates strong offshore suitability, offering excellent stability and seakeeping characteristics for extended coastal and near-offshore passages.
Comparables:
Comparable vessels include the Hallberg-Rassy 41 and the Hallberg-Rassy 38, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and British/European build quality from the same era. The Moody 40 also competes with the Tartan 40 and O'Day 40, though it distinguishes itself with a more refined interior and superior offshore reputation.

Performance

Comfort25.8
Capsize2.03
SA/Disp13.8
Disp/Len236
Bal/Disp36.8

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE) yet. If you own one, help other buyers β€” what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 39.5ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$2.7K – $7.1K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

16 reported issues across 8 systems for the MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

5 critical5 major6 minor
Engine4Structural3Deck2Rudder2Hull2Rigging1Keel1Electrical1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 16 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

One-time $2.99 Β· secure checkout by Stripe Β· instant access Β· 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us β€” as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Perkins, Yanmar, Bukh, Universal β€” is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines β†’ to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the MOODY 40 (PRIMROSE)

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