42 Silhouette

Introduced in 1987, the Silhouette 42 is a truly exceptional design. If her profile is a little awkward (which it certainly is), the Silhouette manages to offer a unique interior with more living space than one might expect in a boat this size. She was built in Taiwan by Chien Hwa on a PVC-cored, modified-V hull. While she incorporates several innovative features, it’s the semi-enclosed pilothouse/sundeck and the wide-open master stateroom (with its private cockpit) that attracts the most attention. A real surprise is the hydraulically operated stern gate that drops to create a practically wide-open transom and swim platform. Below, a breakfast bar separates the full-width salon from the galley, and both staterooms feature double berths, each with a full head. The interior is completely finished with light ash (or teak) woodwork and mica veneers. Additional features include foredeck seating, a molded bow pulpit, and a spacious seating area aft of the helm. With standard Caterpillar 375hp diesels, the Silhouette 42 will cruise at close to 20 knots (low to mid 20s top). A total of 12 were built.