SOUTHERLY 42 RS
PRICE £240,000-£400,000 YEAR 2006-2014
Two features Graham and Dilly like the idea of are saloon seating that lets you see out when the weather’s not good enough for the cockpit, and a retractable keel or centreboard so they can anchor close to the beach and sail into shallow bays and rivers.
With a well-proven electro-hydraulic swing keel, the Southerly 42 RS (Raised Saloon) offers both features. With its keel lowered, the 2.7m/8ft 11in draught offers fast yet comfortable passagemaking, with a powerful windward performance. Then, at the touch of a button, the keel can be raised to reduce the draught to a mere 0.84m/2ft 9in.
She has a plumb stem and a broad transom, increasing both her waterline length and interior volume aft. The 42 RS is easily sailed by two. Her fractional rig has swept double spreaders, a self-tacking furling jib and a mainsail (72.16m2/777ft2) with single-line reefing. When sailing off the wind, an optional gennaker or asymmetric can be flown from the removable bowsprit.
The deep cockpit is designed for efficiency, safety and comfort with long, comfy teak-laid seats and gently sloping seatbacks. Running rigging is neatly arranged and feeds through Spinlock clutches to powerful Lewmar self-tailing winches. Her single large-diameter wheel and twin semi-balanced rudders provide light, responsive steering and the mainsheet track is within reach of the helm.
Two large cockpit lockers and a dedicated liferaft locker provide plenty of stowage. A hinged helm seat and removable transom panel give easy access to the water while on deck, raised bulwarks with a teak capping rail and wide, uncluttered walkways provide safe and secure footing going forward.
Below, raised saloon seating provides a dining area for eight, taking full advantage of the panoramic views through large tinted windows. Three hatches provide ventilation. The high-level chart table is opposite.
Situated on a lower level is a linear galley with spacious work surfaces, a full-size cooker, twin sinks, frontloading fridge and plenty of stowage. The two large double cabins feature long berths, standing headroom, spacious ensuites including separate showers and stowage.
Installation of machinery, wiring, electrics and ancillary items are carefully planned and executed, with good maintenance access. Her powerful 56hp Yanmar engine pushes her easily to 8 knots+ and the large fuel and water tanks are ideal for long-term cruising.