Grand Soleil 40: Design, fun, performance

by Grand Soleil Yachts 12 Feb 2023 11:47 UTC

Speed, elegance, ergonomics, safety. These are the four key words behind the creation of the Grand Soleil 40, a model that just a few months after its launch (the debut took place at the Cannes Yachting Festival 2022) promises to replicate the great success of the GS 44, winner of the 2021 and 2022 ORC World Championships.

The project sees Matteo Polli and Nauta Design respectively responsible for the naval architecture and the interior and exterior design
Two versions, Performance and Race
The lines of the hull maintain the vocation for performance, but without sacrificing volumes
Now available the complete photo shoot of the GS 40 Performance made by Carlo Borlenghi in Portofino

Grand Soleil 40 - photo © Grand Soleil Yachts

This 40-footer, available in both the Performance and Race versions, bears once again the signature of Matteo Polli for the naval architecture and Nauta Design responsible for the exterior and interior design. The lines of the hull and the naval architecture of the GS 40 maintain the strong vocation for performance, without sacrificing volumes, maximizing space and improving comfort onboard. This is the result of the synergy between Nauta Design (interior & exterior design) and the Shipyard's Technical Office, who have brought to the water a sailing boat with clean and functional layouts in both the interior and exterior areas.

"The hull lines: an evolution of the concept studied for the GS 44, with the utmost attention to the balance of volumes". Matteo Polli, Naval Architect.

"The design brief for the new Grand Soleil 40 was very similar to that of the GS 44, but with the request to further raise the bar, given the smaller size. The overall length of 40 feet, one of the most common on the market, presents a great challenge in finding a compromise between internal volumes and sporting characteristics. Thanks to the experience gained on the 44 and a well-established team of designers, it was possible to find the perfect combination of performance and comfort. The hull lines are an evolution of the concepts studied for the GS 44, giving maximum attention to the balance of volume as the heel increases. The bow profile remains very fine to maintain good performance in light airs and ensure a smooth passage through the waves.

As on the GS 44, great importance was placed on the aft positioning of the shaft, enabling Nauta Design to develop an innovative layout and obtaining a benefit on both performance and comfort. It was also chosen to keep a centreboard with a single rudder blade in a very advanced position, a solution that I believe is ideal for both cruising and racing."

Grand Soleil 40 - photo © Grand Soleil Yachts

Relaxation and performance, 40 feet of Grand Soleil DNA

The winning performance is always at hand on the new GS 40. The deck plan of the Performance version includes 4 winches as standard: two on the coachroof and two next to the helm positions. The self-tacking jib, also as standard, is equipped with a recessed track, while the mainsheet is positioned to a fixed point in the cockpit.

Note the position of the mast which, as on the GS 44, has a retracted arrangement to maximize the "J" and therefore the base of the head sails. Also available in carbon in the Race version, together with an increased sail area compared to the standard version.

"The GS 40 represents the synthesis of the best we have managed to put on the GS 44." Massimo Gino, Nauta Design co-founder.

"We have found the right proportions to have a large and functional deck for both racing and cruising" - explains Massimo Gino of Nauta Design - "where all the lines and deck gear have been studied with the naval architect Matteo Polli and Cantiere del Pardo to find ergonomic positions and solutions, practical and functional for both uses. In a light and sleek hull, we were able to include all the necessary functions on a 40 foot boat that also offers comfort and functionality in the interior. From the cabin to the owner's heads, from the galley to the dinette, the volumes, stowage and all functions are precise and well balanced. The rich and classic style is the one that has been well tested and appreciated aboard all Grand Soleil's".

Grand Soleil 40 - photo © Grand Soleil Yachts

Winning in a regatta and sailing in comfort: the same design goal

Wide, practical, efficient interiors both for cruising use and for moving with agility during regattas. Below deck, the GS 40 offers two options: in the standard version there are three cabins and one heads to offer more spacious stowage and a greater walkway area into the owner's cabin, while the optional layout includes three cabins and two heads. The interior has also been designed to maximize the space between the living and galley areas. Relaxation and comfort for the owner and their guests when cruising can also meet the needs of the regatta sailors. The GS 40 is equipped with a built-in galley with spacious worktop (2.6 meters with white resin top), completed by a generous 75-litre fridge with double top opening. An optional 42-litre fridge with front opening is also available. The beam of the central saloon area is also designed for racing needs: the passage can be used for stowing the sails, for a quick change of equipment.

Grand Soleil 40 - photo © Grand Soleil Yachts

Race, the legacy of a world championship range

The Race version amplifies the competitive potential of a boat already geared to racing. In this version the deck plan has been adapted to optimize sail performance, including the addition of 2 winches, race bowsprit, a hydraulic backstay, jib tracks in transverse position and a recessed mainsail track.

The standard draft is already designed from a racing point of view (IRC) with a depth of 2.4 meters, cast iron blade and lead torpedo. Also available on the GS 40 are two other keel options: the first 2.1 meters optimized for ORC competitions, the second shallow draft of only 1.85 meters. Both the race and performance versions include a stern platform that can be opened electronically, equipped with a ladder for easy boarding to the swim platform.

"A boat that is easy to use, luxurious and at the same time competitive in it's performance". Marco Gugnoni, Cantiere del Pardo Technical Office.

"With the Grand Soleil 40 Performance project we have best expressed the DNA of the historic brand of Cantiere del Pardo. From the early stages, the boat was designed with two distinct souls but with the same quality and style which distinguish all the Grand Soleil hulls. The Performance version is optimized to easily navigate safely, while the Race version is designed to be competitive on the race course.

The experience we have acquired in the design of the older sister, the Grand Soleil 44, has allowed us to further refine all the parameters to create a boat that is both easy to sail and performs brilliantly. A concentration of know-how and innovation regarding the deck equipment and large cockpit, which tempts even the most experienced competitor. Going below deck you enter a luxurious and fresh space, always functional in its details. The collaboration with the Nauta Design studio has given life to a layout created to maximise the volume of each cabin. The feeling onboard is what every Grand Soleil has in common: high quality finishes and timeless design".