J J/40

The J J/40 is a 13.2-meter fractional sloop racer-cruiser designed by Alan Johnstone and built by J Boats since 2024. It features a fin with bulb and spade rudder hull, a 2.2-meter draft, and displaces 7665 kg. The J/40 prioritizes sailing characteristics over interior volume, with a lower freeboard and narrower beam than many contemporary cruisers. Aboard *59° North Sailing*, a J/40 experienced a severe rudder-post leak during a delivery from the U.S. East Coast to Bermuda, where a stainless steel component shifted up the rudder shaft, breaking the watertight seal and causing the rudder post to clunk violently in heavy seas.39:15 The crew hove to for several days to manage the leak, which overwhelmed primary bilge pumps, and successfully reached Bermuda. *SEILmagasinet* noted the J/40's balanced steering and responsive performance during sea trials off Palma de Mallorca, where it maintained speeds of 6 to 7 knots while beating in varying wind conditions.30:22 The deck layout includes a carbon mast and Harken hardware. The interior offers a functional galley and well-ventilated aft cabins, though the head is compact.3:32 The J/40 performs well under a large gennaker and maintains stability when loaded for cruising. Base pricing starts at 350,000 euros, with tested configurations reaching 450,000 to 470,000 euros.watch The J/40 earned the European Yacht of the Year award in Düsseldorf.0:35