We'd caution not to be fooled into seeing this as another "plain white sloop," as this highly refined shape begins with a waterline length that's two or three feet longer than other modern 40-foot designs (click here for a brief comparison of specs). The results of this generous footprint: performance potential and Dehler's characteristic rock-solid motion, along with the displacement required by a distance cruiser. With a Displacement/Length ratio of 148 (with standard keel), Dehler 41 is relatively light for her length, a nod to this highly evolved hull. Racers will enjoy getting out of the gates quickly while discerning cruisers will appreciate having first choice in the anchorage. Everyone will relish in this powerful shape.

The hull is constructed of a vacuum-infused sandwich using a closed-cell foam core and a variety of uni- and multidirectional fabrics, as appropriate. The deck, meanwhile, is a hand-laid sandwich with a core of end-grain balsa. The two are laminated together in Dehler's traditional fashion, yielding an effectively single-piece hull/deck structure.

Three keels are offered, the standard and Regatta versions being up-to-the-moment shapes with T-shaped fin/bulb profiles. The shoal keel (not illustrated) features an L-shaped profile. Of note, the designers have made every effort to keep the centers of the three keels as close as possible, minimizing the compromise in "ultimate performance" that comes with reduced draft. A Dehler 41 is a hugely gratifying boat in any configuration.

Above the water is a generous sailplan, offered with keel-stepped aluminum or carbon fiber spars. Outboard chainplates allow tight sheeting angles for the minimally-overlapping headsails and a strong base. The 907 square feet of sail (calculated from I, J, P and E rig dimensions) gives a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of 21.25 with the standard keel, squarely in the competitive range, and a figure which suggests good power without being easily overpowered in a breeze.

As we've come to expect, deck hardware is top-notch, properly spec'ed, and laid out in a logical manner. Tracks, blocks and winches come from Harken, and Furlex's spectacular through-deck headsail furling system is fitted as standard equipment to all Dehler 41s. The cockpit is open and comfortably laid out whether banging buoys or entertaining on the hook. We note the mainsheet traveler neatly tooled into the cockpit sole, generous storage beneath the sole aft of the dual helms and lockers beneath the teak-faced seats. Complementing cockpit sole and decks are also available.

Moving forward, the deck features the subtle contours and thoughtful detailing that have long been Dehler hallmarks. Side decks are wide and easily negotiated, with a nice molded toerail providing security whenever working forward. Flush-fitting hatches, custom ports and crisp molded details around the cabin trunk give the Dehler 41 an aesthetic that is modern and up-to-date, and also purposeful and timelessly beautiful, free as it is from soon-to-be-dated styling gimmicks.

Much of the pleasure from owning a modern Dehler comes from a rich, high-quality, ruggedly made interior, and the interior of the Dehler 41 will not disappoint. Open and airy, with outstanding natural light and ventilation, and still warm and inviting, we see a fairly exquisite home away from home, a retreat as enjoyable as the journey itself.

Several variations of interior layout are available. Our personal favorite comes straight from our many miles aboard Dehler 39s, and features a huge dry-storage space (nicknamed the "garage") aft of the generous standard head with its separate shower stall. This space may be fitted with a cushion, reading lamp and other "civilized" trimmings, converting it to a very convenient berth as needed. Owners may also choose to forego the shower stall in favor of a true double aft cabin, as well as add a private en suite head, or perhaps a writing desk, to the owner's cabin, forward.

This luxury of choice and do-everything personality is central to having a Dehler built. Even the most basic Dehler 41 is a nicely-equipped boat, with such details as the aforementioned belowdecks furler, refrigeration (dual top- and front-loaders!), water heater, shore power, 38 horsepower Volvo, single-line reefing and more fitted as standard. From there, smart perusal of the factory options begins tailoring one's own Dehler 41 to his own plans.

As we learn more about Dehler's newest launch, we think we're looking at one of those rare boats that truly does it all with minimal compromise, and a noteworthy step forward. Whether building an exceedingly comfortable racer, or a tremendously entertaining and sporting cruiser that will click off the miles effortlessly, this is a stellar platform with few peers.

Conveniently but not coincidentally, our unique direct-purchasing structure also happens to make the Dehler 41 an astonishing value by any measure. We look forward to discussing the Dehler 41 in greater detail.