First 40 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Beneteau First 40 commenced production in 2007, continuing through to at least 2016, building upon Beneteau's long-standing heritage in fiberglass yacht construction. The builder, Beneteau, which transitioned from traditional wooden fishing trawlers to fiberglass vessels in the 1960s, embraced this material to allow for more efficient production and lighter hulls, ultimately broadening their appeal. For the First 40, designers Farr Yacht Design sought to configure the hull, rig, and appendages for optimal performance under IRC handicaps, making it a competitive choice for racing while maintaining the practicalities expected of a cruising yacht. Nauta Design's involvement ensured a stylish and habitable interior, reflecting Beneteau's commitment to balancing performance with comfort.

The First 40 was offered with key variations to cater to different sailing needs. While a standard keel with a maximum draft of 8.04 feet was available, a shallow-draft option of 6.33 feet (1.93m) was also provided. Furthermore, sailors could choose between a standard rig and a dedicated racing rig, often referred to as the "Carbon Edition," which featured a carbon mast and adjusted sail plans for enhanced competitive performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 40 is well-regarded for its sailing characteristics, skillfully combining speed and stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 20.73, the First 40 is indicative of a vessel designed for good performance across a range of wind conditions, particularly excelling in lighter air. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio, hovering around 0.3979 (or 40%), suggests a stiff and stable platform capable of standing up to more wind, providing a reassuring motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 173.0 places the First 40 in the lighter, more performance-oriented category of yachts, hinting at its responsive nature on the water.

Anecdotal evidence from reviews and owner reports consistently highlights the First 40 as a fast and stylish boat that delivers impressive speed and stability in both light and heavy wind conditions. Its cockpit is meticulously designed to promote efficient sail handling and helming, making it responsive and engaging to steer. Owners and reviewers frequently praise its solid performance upwind and on a reach, though some note it can be "a bit heavy downwind." Overall, the First 40 is described as easy to handle, fast, and forgiving, appealing to both seasoned racers and less experienced sailors. The model garnered "rave reviews" upon its release, achieving notable successes including winning the Sydney-Hobart race and receiving the Asia Boating Awards 2011 and Boat of the Year 2010 accolades.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau First 40, penned by Nauta Design, is celebrated for its stylish aesthetics and focus on "maximum habitability," providing a comfortable living space for its size. While specific headroom details can vary, the saloon is designed to offer ample space. The typical interior arrangement includes a well-appointed L-shaped galley positioned to port of the companionway, offering practical amenities for onboard living. The yacht usually features a forward owner's cabin, with additional berths often found in aft cabins. Reviews frequently note the presence of plenty of natural light throughout the interior and highlight the use of high-quality finishes and materials, contributing to a refined and inviting atmosphere. Thoughtful design elements such as a life raft locker in the cockpit further underscore the boat's practical considerations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 40 frequently express satisfaction with the vessel, often noting its robust construction and enjoyable sailing characteristics. Many consider it to offer significant value, describing it as "a hell of a lot of boat for the money." Owners consistently praise its ability to perform well on the racecourse while still providing a comfortable cruising experience, underscoring its dual-purpose design success. While specific common problems are not widely reported, the collective sentiment emphasizes the yacht's overall reliability and its capability to remain in excellent condition years after its initial build. The blend of performance, comfort, and Beneteau's established reputation contributes to a positive ownership experience.