Hinckley’s New Picnic Boat

Hinckley Yachts recently launched its Picnic Boat 40, the new flagship of the builder’s popular series. The Maine-based company announced the model last fall at the Newport International Boat Show. Hinckley first launched its Picnic Boat series 25 years ago, which also includes the 37 MKIII and 34 models, and says the 40 is not only the largest yacht in the series, but also the most advanced.

The vessel has a convenient hull-side door to starboard that not only is power-operated and remote-controlled, it also slides into the gunwale so as not to take up cockpit real estate. That hull, which was penned by naval architect Michael Peters, is constructed with an inner layer of carbon fiber, an outer layer of Kevlar, Corecell M Foam core and finally, the hull is infused and post-cured with Epoxy. Hinckley calls this method TriGuard Epoxy Construction. Her construction, plus a deep-V hull form, help create a speedy and fuel-efficient vessel. Plus, the builder says the “weight savings in the hull structure allow for the signature teak woodworking accents, which are Hinckley Hallmarks.”

The Picnic Boat 40 is powered by twin Cummins 480 hp diesels matched twin Hamilton 322 jet drives, which push her to a reported 34-knot top speed. However, optional 550 hp Cummins is said to increase that top-end to 38 knots. Cruising speed is 30 knots, and the yacht’s 2-foot-2-inch draft makes her a shallow-water friendly.

In the cockpit, facing bench seats are the spot to socialize and enjoy a sundowner with unobstructed views. An L-shaped settee with table, a wet bar and the yacht’s helm station is forward under the hard top. Among its multifunction displays, the helm is equipped with the builder’s redesigned Jetstick III for easy maneuvering. Belowdecks, the yacht can transition from a cruising layout to dayboat layout when the forepeak V-shaped settee with table transforms into a berth. There’s a head aft and to starboard, opposite of which is a galley station with sink, microwave oven and stowage.