Oceanis 40 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

Synthesizing a satisfying sailing experience with practical and luminous living spaces, the Oceanis 40 earned a reputation as a versatile cruiser, equally at home on coastal passages or embarking on more extended voyages.

History and Design

The Beneteau Oceanis 40 began its production run in 2007, entering the market during an era when Beneteau was fully leveraging its expertise in fiberglass construction. The builder's transition to fiberglass in the 1960s, a move spearheaded by Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, revolutionized their production, allowing for more efficient manufacturing and a broader appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels. The Oceanis 40 exemplifies this evolution, combining efficient production methods with thoughtful design.

Naval architects Jean Berret and Olivier Racoupeau of Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design were responsible for the boat's hull and sailing dynamics, adhering to their philosophy of "always design a boat that exceeds customers' expectations." For the Oceanis 40, this translated into a modern hull shape with a plumb bow, aiming to maximize waterline length and interior volume without compromising performance. Complementing the naval architecture, Nauta Design guided the interior, focusing on "contemporary lines where light, comfort and well-being prevail on board." During its production, the Oceanis 40 was also offered with an optional shallow draft keel, measuring 5.09 feet, alongside the standard 6.23-foot draft, providing flexibility for various cruising grounds. For the charter market, versions were specifically sold as the Moorings 41.3.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 40 feet and a waterline length of nearly 34 feet, the Beneteau Oceanis 40 offers a solid platform for cruising. Its sailing performance characteristics can be further understood through key ratios. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, calculated at approximately 19.53 (using the reported sail area of 843.89 sqft), suggests a boat that performs well in light air, capable of moving effectively in gentler breezes.

The Displacement to Length (DLR) ratio of around 207 indicates a moderate displacement cruiser. This places the Oceanis 40 firmly in the category of boats that are neither overly heavy and traditional nor ultralight and purely performance-oriented, offering a balanced feel between motion comfort and responsiveness. The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at approximately 28.5% (with a ballast of 5,198 lbs and displacement of 18,210 lbs). While below the 40% threshold that often signifies exceptional stiffness in heavy winds, the Oceanis 40 is still considered a stable and capable cruiser for its class. Its spade rudder provides good control and maneuverability under sail. Owners and reviewers often comment that the Beneteau Oceanis 40 "feels like forty-five but handles more like a compact cruiser," striking a commendable balance between sailing performance and construction methods relative to its cost.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Oceanis 40, designed by Nauta Design, prioritizes spaciousness, light, and comfort, aligning with Beneteau's focus on creating yachts that are both practical and inviting. While specific headroom figures may vary, the design ethos aimed for a bright and airy living space below deck.

Typical layouts for the Oceanis 40 include popular two-cabin and two-head versions, as well as three-cabin, two-head configurations, catering to various owner needs from couples to larger families or charter operations. These layouts generally feature a comfortable V-berth forward, a spacious main salon with a U-shaped settee and a central table, and a well-appointed galley. The galley is often L-shaped or linear, equipped with essential amenities for extended cruising. Aft, the boat typically offers one or two private cabins, often with double berths, and an additional head. The finish quality often features light wood trim, contributing to the bright interior feel noted by Nauta Design's focus on light. The deck is constructed with balsa sandwich stratification, contributing to insulation and rigidity. The cockpit is designed for comfort and functionality, often featuring a double wheelhouse and a folding central table, enhancing outdoor living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 40 generally appreciate its blend of features, often noting its robust construction and comfortable motion in a seaway, which is a hallmark of the Oceanis range. The balance between sailing performance and comfortable accommodations is frequently highlighted as a significant strength. Many owners find that the boat delivers a satisfying sailing experience while providing ample and practical living spaces below deck. The widespread availability and strong community around Beneteau yachts also contribute positively to the ownership experience, with extensive dealer networks and active owner groups facilitating support and camaraderie.