1985 Whiting 40

Step aboard this Whiting 40 and you feel that unmistakable New Zealand pedigree in the hull shape and interior layout. She’s a proper sailor’s boat: a long, easily driven waterline, deep cockpit with high coamings, and a sea‑kindly motion that makes night watches less tiring. Below, the joinery has that warm, handcrafted feel you just don’t see in newer production boats, with secure sea berths and plenty of handholds where you actually need them. Systems are laid out with an eye toward self‑reliance—straightforward access to tanks, wiring, and steering gear—so maintenance and upgrades don’t turn into full‑day contortions. For cruisers who value function over flash, this is the kind of hull you can trust offshore and still enjoy at anchor.

A Whiting 40 is particularly well suited to this region’s mix of open‑water passages, choppy afternoon breezes, and snug anchorages. The easily driven hull and efficient sail plan let you keep moving when the wind goes light, yet the boat feels composed and predictable when conditions pipe up. Generous tankage and storage make extended cruising between well‑stocked marinas practical, while the secure cockpit and protected companionway help keep green water where it belongs. With a layout that works underway as well as at anchor, this design transitions smoothly from coastal hops to longer bluewater legs, matching the varied sailing opportunities this area offers.