Valiant 42

[buppy_j]

Would love to hear anyones opinion or experience with a Valiant 42.

Windward sailing, general performance, etc.

Thanks.

Jeff

[Silmaril]

Bob Perry just doesn''t know how to design a poor performing sailboat. I had an opportunity to sail on a Valiant 42 for a day sail and came away quite impressed. Moderate breeze, light chop, and it went to weather very well and in general had great handling. A little heavy for my tastes, but they are great boats. Also had a chance to chat with Bob at the Annapolis show and he really impressed me in person.

The only thing I would be worried about is if you are concidering one used, Valiant had a problem some years ago when they used a fire retardant in the resin mix that was not compatable with the rest of the resin and caused some serious blistering problems. You can probably contact either Valiant or Bob Perry and get better information.

[chuck711]

Been out cruising for a year and noticed that Valiant''s seem to have a common problem
with AutoPilots. Other than that all the other comments are quite positive. There is a Valiant up for sale recently here in Trinidad. The owners has a medical condition and must sell. Also having just arrived after a year out this is a great starting point for the Pacific or back up
the Island Chain. The wind''s with you!!!