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Swift 40
Designer: Sparkman & Stephens  ·  Builder: Kang Nam Shipbuilders (Korea)  ·  First built: 1979
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About the Swift 40

Designed with performance and versatility in mind, the Swift 40 is a 40-foot sailing vessel that appeals to sailors seeking a capable bluewater companion. While detailed specifications remain limited, the Swift 40 has earned a reputation as a well-balanced cruising boat suited to coastal passages and offshore voyaging alike, offering the kind of sea-keeping ability that inspires confidence in open water. The boat's design reflects the practical priorities of serious cruisers — a comfortable cockpit layout, solid construction, and a hull form aimed at delivering dependable performance across a range of conditions. Sailors who have spent time aboard often point to its manageable size as a genuine strength, making it accessible for short-handed sailing without sacrificing the space and stability expected on longer passages. For those researching a bluewater-capable cruiser in the 40-foot range, the Swift 40 deserves consideration. Its combination of ocean-ready handling and livable accommodations positions it as a practical choice for sailors planning extended coastal cruising or ambitious offshore adventures. As with any vessel, a thorough survey is recommended before purchase.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 39.12 ft / 11.92 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 31.00 ft / 9.45 m
Beam 13.33 ft / 4.06 m
Max Draft 5.25 ft / 1.60 m
Displacement 24,300.00 lb / 11,022 kg
Ballast 8,937.00 lb / 4,054 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin with rudder on skeg
Rigging Type Masthead Ketch
Construction FG
Designer Sparkman & Stephens
Builder Kang Nam Shipbuilders (KOREA)
First Built 1979
Last Built 1984
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Known Issues & What to Watch For

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Performance Ratios
PHRF Rating PHRF (Performance Handicap Racing Fleet) is a national racing handicap measured in seconds per nautical mile. Lower values indicate faster boats. Ratings are sourced from US Sailing's national database (median across 60+ regional fleets).
Under 0 — Ultralight racer0–90 — Performance racer90–150 — Cruiser/racer150–210 — Typical cruiserOver 210 — Heavy/slow cruiser
171
Ballast/Displacement Ballast to Displacement ratio shows what percentage of the boat's total weight is ballast. Higher values generally mean better initial stability and stiffer sail carrying.
30–35% — Typical cruiser35–45% — Stiff performance boatOver 45% — Racing oriented
36.78
Displacement/Length Displacement to Length ratio measures how heavy a boat is relative to its waterline length. Lower values mean a lighter, faster boat.
Under 100 — Ultralight racer100–200 — Light cruiser/racer200–300 — Moderate cruiser300–400 — Heavy cruiserOver 400 — Very heavy
364.14
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 8.85 pounds/inch
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 15.05
P (Mainsail Luff) 786.00 ft² / 73.02 m²
E (Mainsail Foot) Perkins
Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 50 gals / 189 L
Water Capacity 164 gals / 621 L
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