The Najad 490 Sailboat
Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Published Specification for the Najad 490

Underwater Profile: Bulb-fin keel & spade rudder

Hull Material: GRP (Fibreglass)

Length Overall: 49'3" (15.0m)

Waterline Length: 43'0" (13.1m)

Beam: 14'9" (4.5m)

Draft: 7'9" (2.4m)

Rig Type: Cutter

Displacement: 38,581lb (17,500kg)

Ballast: 13,860lb (6,300kg)

Designer: Judel/Vrolijk & Co

Builder: Najad Yachts (Sweden)

Year First Built: 1997

Year Last Built: 2007

Design Ratios: The Key Performance Indicators

The Sail Area/Displacement Ratio (SA/D) is 17.5, indicating that the boat is well-balanced and capable of good speed in a variety of wind conditions.

The Ballast/Displacement Ratio (B/D) is 34.4%, which suggests that the boat has good stability and is unlikely to capsize.

The Displacement/Length Ratio (D/L) of the Najad 490 is 230, which is considered moderate. This means the boat is neither too heavy nor too light, offering a good balance between speed and comfort.

The Comfort Ratio (CR) is 30.9, indicating that the boat is designed for comfortable cruising rather than racing.

The Capsize Screening Formula (CSF) for the Najad 490 is 1.99, which is below the generally accepted threshold of 2.0. This suggests that the boat has a low risk of capsize, making it a safe choice for ocean cruising.

But what are 'design ratios' and how are they derived?

The Interior

The interior design of the Najad 490 is spacious and well-designed, featuring two large cabins, a galley, a toilet facility, and a 250 liter waste water capacity. The interior is finished with hand-polished mahogany and outstanding craftsmanship.

One of the three alternative interior versions

The boat has a classic and elegant look, with a warm and cozy atmosphere. The saloon has a large U-shaped sofa and a folding table, as well as a navigation station and a wet locker. The master cabin aft has an island bed, a dressing table, and an en-suite bathroom. The guest cabins have twin berths and share a bathroom. The galley is fully equipped with a stove, an oven, a fridge, a freezer, and ample storage space. The boat also has plenty of natural light and ventilation from the hatches and portholes.

Pros & Cons

One of the strengths of the Najad 490 is its robust construction. The hull is built from solid fiberglass, providing excellent durability and resistance to damage. The interior is also well-built, with high-quality materials and finishes.

The Najad 490 also excels in terms of comfort and livability. The interior layout is spacious and well-designed, with plenty of natural light and ventilation. The boat is equipped with all the modern amenities you would expect, including a fully equipped galley, a comfortable saloon, and spacious sleeping cabins.

However, the Najad 490 does have some weaknesses. Some owners have reported issues with the boat's electrical system, and the boat's high price tag may be a deterrent for some buyers.

Despite these issues, the Najad 490 has received positive reviews from the sailing press and owners. It is often praised for its excellent build quality, comfortable interior, and good sailing performance.

The Secondhand Market

On the secondhand market, the availability of the Najad 490 can vary. However, when they do come up for sale, they tend to retain their value well.

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The approximate asking price for a used Najad 490 is typically around $500,000 to $600,000, depending on the boat's age, condition, and equipment.

When comparing the Najad 490 to other similar sailboats in its class, it stands out for its robust construction, comfortable interior, and good sailing performance. However, it is also one of the more expensive options in its class.

In conclusion, the Najad 490 is a high-quality cruising sailboat that offers a good balance between performance and comfort. Its robust construction and well-designed interior make it a great choice for long-distance cruising.

However, potential buyers should be aware of the boat's high price tag and potential electrical issues. It's also important to remember that owning a boat is a significant commitment, requiring time, money, and effort to maintain.

For those who are willing to make this commitment, the Najad 490 offers the freedom and adventure of sailing, combined with the comfort and amenities of a modern home. 

Whether you're a seasoned sailor looking for a new challenge, or a novice looking to dip your toes into the world of sailing, the Najad 490 is a boat that deserves serious consideration.

For those interested in buying a Najad 490, it's recommended to do thorough research and possibly hire a marine surveyor to inspect the boat before purchase. This can help ensure that you're getting a boat that's in good condition and worth the investment.

If you're looking for a Najad 490 for sale, it's worth checking out online boat sales websites, as well as contacting Najad dealers and yacht brokers. They can help you find available boats and guide you through the buying process.

In summary, the Najad 490 is a high-quality sailboat that offers excellent performance, comfort, and durability. While it does come with a high price tag, its many strengths make it a worthwhile investment for those who are serious about sailing.