Boat Tour Video Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40

The 2002 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40 is a well-regarded performance cruiser designed by Daniel Andrieu and built by Jeanneau Yachts in France. Part of Jeanneau’s successful Sun Odyssey range, the SO40 is known for its sleek hull, versatile sail plan, and comfortable accommodations, making it an excellent choice for both coastal cruising and extended passages.

My Jeanneau Sun Odyseey 40 is the 3 Cabin Version.

Overview

• Model: Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40

• Designer: Daniel Andrieu

• Builder: Jeanneau (Groupe Beneteau)

• Year: 2002

• Construction: Fiberglass hull and deck

• Length Overall (LOA): 12.20 m (40.0 ft)

• Beam: 3.95 m (13.0 ft)

• Draft: Typically 1.95 m (6.4 ft); shoal draft version ~1.5 m (4.9 ft)

• Displacement: ~7,200 kg (15,873 lbs)

• Keel Type: Fin keel with bulb

• Engine: Volvo Penda MD2040

• Fuel Capacity: ~136 L (36 gal)

• Water Capacity: ~320 L (85 gal)

Design & Layout

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40 was offered with two or three cabin layouts, making it suitable for both private owners and charter operators. The boat combines elegant lines with functional design, ensuring a balance between sailing performance and onboard comfort.

Interior:

• Warm and inviting teak joinery throughout

• Spacious saloon with a large U-shaped dinette and a separate settee

• Well-appointed galley with double sink, stove/oven, fridge, and ample storage

• Navigation station with desk and instrument panel

• Two heads/showers (one en suite in the owner’s cabin in the 2-cabin version)

• Large forepeak cabin and comfortable aft cabins with good storage

Deck & Cockpit:

• Twin wheel steering, rare and innovative for its time on a 40-footer

• Walk-through transom with swim platform and ladder

• Generous cockpit with fixed table and plenty of seating

• Wide side decks and solid stainless-steel handrails for safety underway

• Furling genoa and in-mast or classic mainsail, depending on configuration

Performance

The Sun Odyssey 40 is a responsive and well-balanced cruiser. It performs efficiently under sail with a hull that tracks well, and it handles predictably in various conditions. Its sail area-to-displacement ratio gives it good light-air capability, while the deep keel version offers solid windward performance.

Under power, the Yanmar diesel provides reliable propulsion, making marina maneuvers and longer motoring stretches easy.

Strengths

• Excellent combination of performance and comfort

• Twin helm layout improves cockpit access and visibility

• Ideal size for couples, families, or short-handed crews

• Proven offshore capability with many boats used in long-distance cruising

• Spacious, thoughtfully designed interior

Considerations

• In-mast furling versions may have reduced sail performance compared to the slab reefing models

• Some systems (e.g., original electronics or plumbing) may need updates depending on maintenance history

• Teak decks (if installed) require periodic care

Conclusion

The 2002 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40 remains a solid, stylish, and versatile cruising sailboat. Its manageable size, attractive design, and comfortable accommodations make it a top choice for sailors seeking a dependable and enjoyable cruiser—whether for weekend sailing, liveaboard life, or bluewater adventures.

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