Windy SR40 Review (2025 Edition) by Aquaholic

On Deck

This model comes in two configurations, one with outboard engines and one on inboards - which makes it ideal for a side-by-side comparison. Owners have plenty of spec choices, and it's in these details that the differences show. For instance, one version features drop-down balconies port and starboard, while the other has fixed platforms. Both layouts give excellent outdoor usability, but the drop sections really open things up when you're at anchor.

At the aft end, the inboard version has engines housed under the sunbed. The outboard version leaves that space clear, which creates room for a large lined locker with checker plate flooring, useful for stowing toys and gear. One owner has gone a step further - specifying a clever lifting roof system inspired by VW camper vans. Push a button and the roof section lifts, canvas panels fold in, and you gain an extra enclosed space that’s both air-conditioned and lit. That raised section even adds sleeping capacity if you want it.

Forward on deck, both layouts offer plenty of volume and height. There’s space for sunbathing up top and a high-sided bow that feels secure underway. Anchor systems vary: one boat has a stem-mounted unit, while the other has a concealed mechanism that lifts and retracts with the push of a button. There’s even a flush hatch that drops down after stowage for a clean finish.

Elsewhere, lifestyle bars fitted to the hardtop allow you to carry paddleboards or bikes. One boat has a black-finished roof, the other white. There are searchlights on the forward section, and an access ladder takes you up to the radar mast and roof.

Steps built into the gunwales help with boarding or getting ashore, especially if you're using the boat as a superyacht chase tender. As with most areas on board, options vary depending on how each owner has spec'd their boat.

The cockpit and saloon area merge into one, helped by the sliding door panels that can be pulled right back and locked into position. When fully opened, and with the twin roof sections slid away, you get a completely open wheelhouse. When the weather changes, you can enclose it all with zipped canopies, and the air-conditioning vents kick in to keep it comfortable.

The dinette has a height-adjustable table that folds out to create a full dining setup. Beneath the seats is a drawer fridge. One locker also houses a generator and, in this case, a gyro stabiliser - a big tick for comfort underway.

The galley setup is full of surprises. There’s a top-loading fridge, a pop-up worktop extension, sink with a folding tap and lid, and a grill neatly hidden in the countertop. Storage is smartly done: cutlery drawer, dedicated glass storage, and even a set of magnetic-base glasses that stick to metal pads underfoot. Magnetic mats can also be placed around the boat so you can secure drinks anywhere. There’s a chopping board hidden in a slot too.

Air conditioning is controlled from several points in the interior, and soft finishes like the turquoise lining inside the hanging locker bring a pop of colour without overdoing it. There’s also a distribution panel neatly tucked behind a locker door.

The interior space at the forward end of the lower deck serves as the main sleeping area. It has standing headroom at the entrance, integrated storage, and an optional table. The cushions lift out to create a casual seating zone when not used as a berth. The optional pop-up roof section at the aft end creates a second occasional sleeping area. This section is air-conditioned and well lit, with steps down for easy access. It’s not a permanent cabin, but for weekend use or extra guests, it’s surprisingly useful.

This particular model is equipped with twin Mercury 600hp V12 outboards, making it an absolute flying machine. Top speed is 52 knots, cruise is around 30 knots, and range at cruise sits around 200 nautical miles. Another option is triple Mercury V10s at 440hp each, which can also hit 50 knots.

At the helm, shock-absorbing seats hint at the performance available. There’s joystick control, Skyhook station-keeping, a bow thruster, and Humphree trim tabs. Garmin screens dominate the dash, but there are also dedicated hard buttons for key functions like wipers, lights, and bilge pumps, so you’re not stuck tapping through menus underway.

Designed by Espen Øino (known for designing a multitude of superyachts including the 126m superyacht Octopus) with interiors by Design Unlimited (also with superyacht pedigree, notably expedition yacht Pink Shadow), the SR40 is not trying to be a full cruiser like the Princess V40. It’s a high-speed weekender with flexible deck options, clever sleeping arrangements, and loads of user-friendly detailing. Whether you go for inboards or outboards, you get blistering performance, customisable features and some clever storage solutions.