Fairline Phantom 40 Review

The Fairline Phantom 40 is a very popular flybridge cruiser, held in high regard by boat owners and the industry alike. This boat combines the practicality required for serious, long-distance cruising with the spaciousness and comfort to accommodate four people with an exclusive blend of privacy and sociability. The Phantom 40 is a boat that should feature on the wish list of anyone looking for a second-hand family-friendly flybridge cruiser.

Who and what is the boat designed for?

The Fairline Phantom 40 is a power cruiser built to cross large expanses of water with ease. It features wider side-decks, heavy-duty hand railing, deeper flybridge steps, elevated helm position, and many other sound, sensible design decisions. This boat is a good choice for anyone who enjoys sharing their love of luxurious high-performance cruising with friends and family.

What commentators say about this flybridge cruiser?

The Fairline Phantom 40 is strongly influenced by the runaway success of the Phantom 50, drawing upon many of her design insights.

The distinctive ellipses that characterise the Phantom 40's exterior and interior give her a graceful yet purposeful air that will stand out, even in the busiest of marinas.

The Fairline Phantom 40 perfectly captures that elusive blend of privacy and sociability that is the secret behind successful onboard entertaining.

Model variations

If you’re thinking of buying a used Fairline Phantom 40, you can choose from a range of variations.

The Phantom 40 (Mk1) launched in September 1994, with 68 built up to December 1996.
The Phantom 42 was launched in 1997, following a facelift, and ran until December 1999, with 116 built in this version.
These early models were fitted with a choice of Volvo TAMD63L engines (318hp each) or Volvo TAMD63P (370hp each).
The Phantom 40 (Mk2) ran from January 2002 to September 2009, with 118 built.
This model was originally fitted with Volvo TAMD63P (370hp each), replaced by Volvo D6/370 (370hp each) or Caterpillar 3126 (426 hp each)

Specifications

Length of hull (bow to aft end of bathing platform including gunnel): 39ft 6in (12.04m)
Length overall (including gunnel): 41ft 1in (12.52m)
Beam (including gunnel): 12ft 11in (3.95m)
Number of berths: 4 – 6
Draught: 3ft 2in (0.97m) unloaded
Height above waterline (including arch + navigation light mast): 14ft 10in (4.52m)
Transport height (approximate): 14ft 3in (4.35m)
Dry weight (approximate): 11.4 tons (11,600kg)
Fuel capacity: 220 gallons/265 US gallons (996 litres)
Water capacity (including calorifier): 99 gallons/118 US gallons (450 litres)
Engine recommendations (twin): from 740mhp to 870mhp

What’s great about the Fairline Phantom 40?

Good stability.
Excellent visibility from both helm positions.
Easy to manoeuvre.
Hulls are stronger than any other competitor, according to Fairline.
Large fuel capacity.
Very secure.
Quality finish inside and out.
Spacious interior, with two good-sized heads.
Plenty of storage.
Luxurious design.

What to look out for on a pre-owned Fairline Phantom 40?

If you’re buying a used Phantom 40, our engineers have reported some things to watch out for and potential faults that might occur on this boat from time to time.

Access around the engines is tight.
When taking the radar arch down for transport, the boat is prone to water leaks and electrical problems affecting the items on the arch. This will show as staining of the head linings in the saloon and dark discolouration of the cherry wood panels. To avoid the problem, ensure that the build up/break down is carried out by a professional when transporting the boat.
Metal blinds in the saloon can suffer from corrosion.
Cherry wood panels can "bloom" if the boat has had excess humidity. A white sheen will show behind the lacquer.

Keeping your Fairline Phantom 40 in shape

When buying a used Fairline Phantom 40, regular scheduled servicing and attention to some minor points will keep your craft in top condition.

Regular servicing

Carry out regular engine and drive servicing in line with Fairline’s recommended intervals for the Phantom 40.

Maintenance

Check the steering reservoir is up to pressure.
Keep the bilge dry to avoid humidity and condensation.
Always keep batteries well charged.

Laying up

When turning off fridges, leave doors open to avoid mould.
Put the windscreen nets on to keep out the harmful UV that will bleach the wooden surfaces.
Keep the flybridge covered with a tonneau or console cover.

Model-specific repairs

The Fairline Phantom 40 is not known for needing specific repairs more frequently than other boats.

Why buy a pre-owned Fairline Phantom 40?

This boat offers a great balance of performance, luxury, spaciousness and practical design. The Phantom’s secure, sea-going qualities and refined comfort will give you, your family and friends enjoyable, safe and luxurious cruising, wherever you sail.

Get this Fairline Phantom 40 Flybridge Cruiser Online on Rightboat.com