Go fast on a simple yet versatile boat
Sailing a well-balanced, stable, high-performance yacht is an essential characteristic of J-Boats. Simple and versatile, the sail plan allows a variety of sail combinations (mainsail only, jib only, reefed mainsail with inner jib, etc.) for comfortable cruising, while being optimized for major events such as the Rolex Fastnet, Newport-Bermuda, Transpac and Chicago-Mac, as J-Boats designer Al Johnstone points out:
" The new J/40 has the power and stability to sail efficiently in light and windy conditions. This boat is excellent for coastal and offshore racing, and especially for family cruising."
Create a boat that's easy to handle
Family sailing has been at the heart of the J/ philosophy since the launch of the first J/24 in 1976. The easier a boat is to sail, the more time you spend on the water. On the new J/40, all maneuvers are accessible from the large cockpit, with six winches optimally positioned for quick adjustments. The mainsheet, traveller and backstay are all within easy reach of the helmsman. The uncovered jib makes tacking easier, offering better visibility and requiring less effort to trim than a larger genoa. For improved downwind performance, the J/40 is equipped with a fixed carbon bow-tip for an asymmetric spinnaker or a furling Code sail.
Designed for time on board
Sailors spend more time in the cockpit than in any other part of the boat. It is therefore crucial to design this space well. The cockpit is both a space for maneuvering and entertainment. An imbalance between these two functions can have undesirable consequences, such as the lack of visibility from the helm on many modern yachts. On the J/40, helmsmen of all sizes benefit from 360-degree visibility from the helm, including over the coachroof - essential for efficient navigation and easier docking.
The two-wheel steering configuration provides excellent access for transom boarding, swimming and use of the cockpit living and play area.
A unique construction
Inspired by the J/45, the interior design and styling were created by Isabelle Racoupeau in collaboration with J/Composites. Natural wood, both solid and veneered, is omnipresent, beautifully varnished and handcrafted. The design emphasizes natural light, attractive sightlines and an overall feeling of spaciousness. The standard layout of 3 cabins and 1 head optimizes sleeping space, ideal for owners sailing with a large family or crew, as well as for sleeping comfortably during offshore races or rallies. The 2-cabin, 2-bath layout offers maximum cruising storage, ideal for family cruising and extended cruising with one or two couples.
Shipyard J/Composites, in the Vendée region of France, is a world leader in high-quality sandwich/infusion construction - the first European builder to adopt resin infusion molding technology in the mid-90s. J/Composites' commitment to precise weight control on large composite parts is key to meeting important design objectives for stability, durability and performance. The new J/40 is the only 40-footer on the market with a fully infused hull, deck, structural grid and main bulkhead. The custom-designed structure offers exceptional hull rigidity and an optimal strength-to-weight ratio, without sacrificing living space comfort.
