Songbird

Songbird is a sloop-rigged Bavaria 40 Ocean, built in 2000/2001 in Giebelstadt, Germany.

The centre-cockpit Ocean models were a bit of an oddity for Bavaria. Instead of packing as many berths (beds) as possible into a boat (typically up to 8 for a boat this size), they were designed to provide comfortable long distance cruising for up to four people. Much of the design and features bear a striking similarity to certain Hallberg-Rassy models of the time. The Ocean models were built in much smaller numbers and to a much higher standard, costing significantly more from new compared to the more widely known aft-cockpit "Cruiser" models.

The cockpit is ideal for short- or single-handed sailing, with the boom-end mainsheet directly behind the helm and the primary winches in easy reach too. Everything can be controlled from the secure and dry centre-cockpit, with a canvas sprayhood on top of the glass windscreen and an optional Bimini or cockpit-tent to suit weather conditions.

The cabin layout is suited for 1-4 people living aboard whilst cruising: A huge central double bed in the aft-cabin, with another spacious double-cabin forward. On one side of the engine room is the head, with separate shower/wet locker area. This has doors on both ends, so is accessible from the companionway for use underway as well as from the aft cabin when resting. The galley is on the opposite pass-through, with a large workspace, storage lockers, double sink, cooker/oven and enourmous top-access fridge with storage baskets. Between them is a spacious engine room offering excellent access to engine and saildrive as well as ample storage for tools and spares. Some owners have fitted a washing machine and/or generator in this area instead.

Hull

Glass-reinforced polyester covered in a thick layer of white gelcoat (with blue stripes). Airex foam core above the waterline and much of the deck. Kevlar reinforced bow. Embedded aluminium plates for bolting on winches, rope clutches, etc.

Propulsion

Ground Tackle

Electrical

Electronics

Safety

Other