I know what you mean, the 47 doesn't go upwind unless it's really blowing. I though with the modified keel on the 42 she would be a little better upwind.

We will be heading south this fall but we have to wait on a new mast for now. The only disadvantage with the wood is the weight aloft. The boom is a different story with all that weight I would hate to see damage caused by accidental jibe.

So how did you like the 42? I know they look the same topside but they are quite different below the waterline

I believe all of the older vagabonds between 1970-1980s all had wooden spars. Most boats you see today have upgraded. If you look close at mine you will see I've replaced the mizzen mast and boom, and this year I'm replacing the main boom. I hope to replace the main mast in the future but choke at the price of even a used stick.