The Boat

Jenny Wren

Jenny Wren is a 2001 Valiant 42, designed by Bob Perry and built in Texas. She was capably outfitted and sailed from California to Ecuador, through the Canal to the Caribbean, and back to California by her previous owner.

The Valiant 42 is an evolution of the Valiant 40 and stands in good company with the Valiant 32, Valiant 37, Valiant 47, and Valiant 50. All 6 boats benefitted from Perry's innovative 'performance cruiser' hull which altered the course of current yacht design by moving it away from the older, heavier designs.

The cutter rig and robust construction make for a good blue-water cruising sailboat. The craftsmanship and woodwork set a very high standard and it is a joy to be down below. The layout is practical with a queen size berth in the forward cabin, a very user-friendly galley, and an aft cabin with a double berth to port. The sit down chart table has a good work surface, plenty of storage and ample space for the navigation and communication electronics. The head is to starboard at the foot of the companionway ladder and includes an enclosed shower. The engine room is accessed behind the companionway ladder and also through the head. There is lots of storage and good tankage.

The boat is easy for a couple to sail, or to singlehand. The majority of the control lines are led aft to the cockpit and there is a strong autopilot. She is equipped with a full array of systems and there is always a list of projects that need attention in addition to the on-going maintenance. Generally I enjoy working on the boat. I find it a challenge with rewards.