Lyman-Morse’s New 42-Foot Boat Pairs New England Style and Modern Tech
Lyman-Morse’s newest yacht is at once timeless and modern.
The 42-footer, which is the first example of the American yard’s Hood 42 LM model to hit the seas, combines classic New England design with contemporary engineering to ensure seamless and stylish cruising.
Lyman-Morse once again teamed up with Chris Hood and his eponymous firm on the design. The duo also worked together on the acclaimed Hood 35 LM and Hood 57 LM—both of which blend traditional aesthetics with modern naval architecture.
“Chris has an incredible ability to design boats that feel timeless the day they’re launched,” Lyman-Morse president Drew Lyman said in a statement. “Our role is bringing those designs to life with the same level of care, precision, and craftsmanship that has defined Lyman-Morse for nearly 50 years.”
The salon and galley.
Cory Silken
The Hood 42 LM takes design cues from the elegant New England yachts of yore, with a sculpted profile, a graceful sheer, a bronze bow rail, and a gorgeous wood-clad cabin house. Constructed using the Maine builder’s signature cold-molded composite process, the yacht combines Douglas fir and Western red cedar with advanced composite laminates, making it strong, light, and quiet on the water.
The model is highly customizable, allowing each owner to personalize the layout, interior arrangement, and other design details. The first unit incorporates several modern innovations that are cleverly incorporated so as not to detract from her classic character. The electronics console is tucked away in the lower helm, the fenders are secured by custom-forged bronze fittings, and the carbon-fiber companionway door is wrapped in varnished veneers, for example. Other highlights include electronic windows and integrated screens that automatically deploy and a ladder that fits neatly with the exterior.
“They’re details that don’t exist because they’re easy,” adds Lyman. “They exist because someone cared enough to ask whether we could build them better.”
The interior shows more of the impeccable craftsmanship that has defined Lyman-Morse for nearly five decades. Gleaming varnished veneers, intricate mahogany joinery, and carefully sculpted cabinetry create an environment akin to a gentleman’s club, according to the yard, and large windows flood the rooms with natural light.
The owner’s stateroom.
Cory Silken
The first hull features an open-plan living area on the main deck with a galley, salon, and multiple entertaining areas. A spacious owner’s stateroom with a head and separate shower is located forward, ensuring privacy when desired.
As for grunt, the yacht is powered by twin Volvo Pentas that deliver 440 hp for a cruising speed in the mid-30-knot range. It also offers responsive handling, joystick maneuverability, and excellent fuel efficiency, the yard says.
The new Hood 42 LM will be on display at the Newport International Boat Show from September 17 to 20.
Click here to see more photos of the Hood 42 LM.
Cory Silken
