Owen Clarke Design LLP plays Jaz 40

First monohull of this new generation to be launched in 2009

Owen Clarke Design has been continually analysing and updating information in the expectation that a new Class 40 would be required for races commencing in the 2009 season. Changes in the class rules, observation from on the water and forecasts for the future development in the class have influenced some of the new yachts parameters. The systematic analysis of a number of new hull designs has been undertaken and the existing hull form as seen for example on the Jaz 40 has been used as a comparison datum.


This new ORC Category 1 maximum beam design is aimed at Class 40 owner/drivers who want more horsepower within the Class 40 rule restrictions. To achieve the minimum 4500kg weight all the internal structure where appropriate doubles as the supports and panels for the class mandatory bunks and domestic fit out requirements. A posted fabricated keel fin along with under hull rudders will be the standard appendages. Since the Class 40 rules limit upwind sail area to 115 m2, the reaching and downwind sail areas are only limited by what the yacht is able to carry and the sailors’ ability to handle the sail sizes. With this in mind the rig has been relocated further aft allowing for a significant increase in size of the headsails, spinnakers, code sails and gaining a much higher aspect ratio mainsail. The new rig will be available in either two or three spreader arrangements.

Having worked closely on performance comparisons between the existing and new generation design it is clear that the wider beam boats have strengths in certain areas over the existing narrow beam design. However, effectively exploiting this area of the performance envelope will require more than just extra horsepower, careful consideration will need to be given to the performance crossovers for the sail plan and the ballast configurations, here, owners will have the opportunity to work on a one on one basis with the designers and their own selected sail makers exploiting any possible advantage they may be able to gain for a particular race or series.

This latest generation of Class 40 racing yachts is a result of three years ongoing development and will represent a significant evolution within one of the most competitive and rapidly expanding offshore racing classes.
Our first custom design of this latest generation is for a renowned UK based sailor, who will be making an entry into the Class 40 racing circuit with this new yacht in 2009 culminating in the Route du Rhum of 2010. Meanwhile a limited production run of 6-8 boats is due to be made by UK based Osprey Racing Yachts. Construction is due to commence in April 2008 with the first boat launched in October 2008.

Press information Owen Clarke Design LLP / www.owenclarkedesign.com