In terms of appearance, the Leader 40 is a modern day cruiser with clear lines and matching proportions. The long foredeck with large sun lounger is followed by an almost flat-looking windscreen, the sides of which end at the tarp bracket. The canopy is also attached to this, providing shade in the cockpit. While the stern is dominated by a hydraulically lowerable bathing platform, the cockpit appears to be divided into two parts.
The skipper sits to starboard in front of a helm station with a staggered dashboard that is clearly laid out with a screen, analogue instruments and switches. Controls such as the steering wheel, gearstick and joystick are well positioned. We find the reflection of the bright background in the windscreen annoying. On the driver's seat, which is open to port and cannot be adjusted, part of the seat can be folded up for a higher position and better visibility. The L-shaped upholstered bench opposite is intended for the co-driver. Grab handles are fitted as required.
A cockpit galley with sink is integrated behind the driver, which can be upgraded with a refrigerator and grill. Up to eight people can be seated around the lowerable table. The transverse aft bench seat is also part of the rear couch, which is divided by a variable backrest. It can be folded forwards in two easy steps and transformed into a headrest. There are storage compartments underneath. Stairs lead from the bathing platform and the cockpit to the side decks. Once the canopy is up, you wish you had the support that only the far railing offers.
In the living area below deck, the shipyard has left almost no corner unused. A queen-size double berth in the foredeck provides sleeping comfort. There are two single berths under the helm and cockpit as well as a bench seat that can be converted into a lounger. A dinette is installed between the cabins on the port side, the table of which can be lowered and converted into an emergency berth. Opposite, the galley leaves almost nothing to be desired. There is plenty of storage space under the berths and in the numerous cupboards.
The heads compartment is located between the galley and forward cabin and can be accessed from the saloon and forward cabin. A large cockpit floor hatch provides access to the engine compartment. The fuel taps can be operated from the driving position, while the batteries are operated from switch panels in the saloon. Electric and manual bilge pumps keep the bilges dry. We criticise the lack of alarm sensors or at least the ability to see water through the filter housing on the two fuel pre-filters. It is also not possible to drain water via a drain tap.
The two Duoprop Z drives are electrically controlled, which makes it possible to use a joystick (extra). This enables almost any manoeuvre to be performed at slow speed. If an optional bow thruster is also fitted, crosswinds or crosscurrents can be compensated for even more sensitively when reversing. However, electric steering does not only have advantages: The turning angles of the drives are determined by speed and rpm.
If you want to take tight bends while gliding, you have to slow down. If you are travelling faster, there is a short delay between actuating the rudder and the reaction of the drives. If you then make a last-minute manoeuvre, you must not become impatient and immediately counter-steer frantically. After all, in this short time the boat travels just under 10 metres at cruising speed and 20 metres at full throttle!
The transition from displacement to planing speed on the Leader 40 takes place without too much trimming and obstruction of visibility. In the worst case, the foredeck with sunpad and horizon form a line. The test boat starts planing from 11.5 knots (1800 rpm) and lowers the bow again from 2200 rpm to continue as a full glider. The GPS indicates a maximum speed of 38 knots.
If you want to glide economically with the Leader 40, you can choose between speeds of 2600-3400 rpm and a speed of 25-35 knots. The theoretical radius of action is then between 180 and 195 nm plus 15% reserve. That is not enough. We would like to see a range of at least 270 nm plus reserve in this class. If you want to go further, you have to sail as a displacer, then the tanks are sufficient for about 350 nm non-stop plus reserve.
The issue of extreme manoeuvres at full speed is brief, as the turning radii depend on speed and engine speed and the boat always reacts well. At full speed, the turning radii measure around five boat lengths and on the slalom course, the leader can be made to swing slightly, but safely, over the longitudinal axis. If the rudder is torn, the result is extended bends.
Keyword rough water: Our boat sailed over the approximately half metre high waves on the Mediterranean dry, safely and comfortably in all directions. Jeanneau equips its Leader 40 ready to go and offers one or two extra features to further increase comfort.
Conclusion
With the Leader 40, Jeanneau has launched a great sports boat that is also suitable as a family cruiser for longer holiday trips. The lack of alarm sensors on the fuel pre-filters has been criticised. However, the bilge and fire extinguishing system is exemplary. As far as the handling characteristics are concerned, the Leader 40 is safe to hand over to anyone.
Data sheet: Jeanneau Leader 40
Shipyard: Jeanneau
Type designation: Jeanneau Leader 40
CE category: B - Outside coastal waters
Material of hull and deck: Plastic
Length: 12,33 m
Width: 3,80 m
Displacement: 7,53 t
Price: 264.537,00 €
