After eighteen years of owning a Cavalier 28 it was time to turn our sights on something a little more comfortable. After looking at numerous production yachts the Jeanneau 42 DS was the clear winner in quality and affordability. The two cabin version is extremely roomy with a massive aft cabin complete with ensuite and separate head and shower for guests adjacent to the V-berth.
We were impressed with the space for storage of dive gear and spare sails as well as the ease of handling. Surprisingly for a cruising yacht the 42DS is quite fast due to the underwater profile. In the past year the boat has not had a drop of water in the bilge, in fact we have to fill the bilge sump monthly with fresh water just to run the pumps. The deck and cockpit are uncluttered and conducive to entertaining as well as comfortable for long passages, the ergonomic layout simply works.
As we are in the planning stages of a cruise to the reef, fuel usage is important. The 54 hp Yanmar diesel with 3 blade flex-o-fold propeller is both powerful enough for the current in Queensland as well as fuel efficient. Our figures put the consumption at approximately 3ltrs per hour at 1900rpm giving 6.4 kts.
In our quest for the right yacht we found Lee Condell at Performance Boating Sales very helpful without the hard sell, Lee is passionate about these yachts and for good reason. Furthermore, the after sales service we have received from Damien Goff has been fantastic, parts are quickly sourced, ordered and as we are berthed nearby he has even hand delivered them.
We are very impressed with our boat “The Cure” and look forward to the next few years cruising with great anticipation.
Geoff & Debbie Molesworth