Fairline Yachts 40 Targa

The Fairline 40 Targa is a quality European sport cruiser from a company that seldom misses the mark when it comes to building well-styled, good-running boats. Built on a deep-V hull with moderate beam, the Targa’s sleek exterior conceals a dinghy garage at the stern—a useful feature seldom found in a boat this size. The cockpit, which is impeccably detailed and finished, has a convenient food-prep unit across from the U-shaped lounge with a barbecue, refrigerator, and sink. Below deck, the midcabin interior of the 40 Targa is an impressive display of high-gloss woodwork and practical design. Headroom is excellent; there’s a separate stall shower in the head, and both staterooms have doors instead of privacy curtains. The engine room, beneath the transom garage, is roomy enough but can only be accessed if the dinghy is removed. Note that the king-size sun pad aft rises hydraulically for access to the tender storage compartment below. A bow thruster is standard—a definite plus—but the side decks are narrow and bow access is difficult. Twin 285hp Volvo diesel sterndrives cruise the 40 Targa at 27–28 knots and reach a top speed in the low 30s.