ENCORE’s cockpit is equipped with a Garmin 5208 touchscreen color chart plotter featuring radar overlay, custom-fitted in a pull-out stainless-steel housing, along with a Simrad autopilot and two recessed B&G multifunction displays. The GPS unit includes a digital fish finder, satellite weather, radio, iPod connectivity, and compatibility with 3D G2 chart cards. The drop-leaf table offers built-in storage compartments, holders for glasses and wine bottles, and an insulated compartment for chilled drinks. Additionally, the cockpit sole opens via a push-button hydraulic ram, providing access to the Northern Lights generator.
The hydraulic mainsheet system and headsail Furler of the Friendship 40 are controlled by two foot buttons at the helm. All sail handling is done using push buttons located within finger’s reach from the helm seat. Two secondary winches on the house top provide push button control of centerboard control, spinnaker halyard, back-up main halyard and preventer. All lines have flush, stainless steel lined bins for clutter-free storage. All four deck winches are stainless steel Lewmar two-speed electric.
The foredeck houses two flush lockers – to port is the swing out anchor system with Lewmar electric windlass and saltwater wash down, to starboard is the chain locker with storage for swim ladder and dinghy outboard motor. The custom chocks in the cap rail are larger on the foredeck than those aft to accommodate large mooring lines, and the cleats are flush to the deck when not in use. On centerline is an additional, extra strength pop-up pad eye for hurricane tie down.
Stepping from the graceful cockpit into the Friendship 40’s interior reveals an equally impressive, classically refined space. Designer Ted Fontaine has achieved a perfect balance of comfort and functionality, creating a surprisingly spacious layout. With varnished, raised-panel teak joinery, custom wide settees, abundant storage in teak lockers, a full head with shower, a functional galley, and a large centerline double berth, this yacht is the ultimate weekend escape.