1961 Hinckley Bermuda 40

Step below and you’re reminded why these early Bermuda 40s are so revered: warm varnished joinery, proper seaberths with lee cloths, and a layout that makes sense offshore at 0200 in a blow. The soft glow of classic bronze portlights and hardware contrasts with the purposeful feel of big, secure cockpit coamings and deep lockers that actually swallow cruising gear. Underway, the yawl rig gives you options—easy to shorten sail while keeping the boat balanced, or set a mizzen staysail and let her stretch her legs in a light afternoon breeze. At anchor, her sheerline turns heads; under sail, the motion is kind, predictable, and quietly addictive.

A Bermuda 40 shines in waters where conditions can swing from glassy calm to lumpy chop in a single day. The full keel and moderate displacement smooth out short, confused seas, while the yawl rig lets you fine‑tune balance when afternoon breezes pipe up. Shoal‑friendly draft on many examples opens up quieter anchorages and tucked‑away coves that deeper fin‑keelers can’t reach. On longer coastal hops, the steady helm, protected cockpit, and seakindly motion reduce fatigue for a small crew. Pair that with classic good looks and a capable cruising interior, and this design fits perfectly into an area where weekend gunkholing and serious passagemaking often share the same horizon.