Oceanis 400 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

As a product of Beneteau, a builder with a rich history rooted in both utilitarian fishing vessels and a pioneering embrace of fiberglass construction, the Oceanis 400 benefits from decades of evolving manufacturing expertise. Beneteau's commitment during this era was to deliver well-built, accessible yachts that appealed to a broad range of sailors seeking both enjoyment on the water and practical accommodations.

History and Design

Production of the Beneteau Oceanis 400 commenced in 1991 and continued through 1997, marking it as one of Beneteau's most significant best-selling designs of its time. Jean-Marie Finot, the naval architect behind the Oceanis 400, aimed to create a performance cruiser that could sail further, faster, and more reliably, without compromising on comfort. This design ethos aligned perfectly with Beneteau's burgeoning focus on recreational sailing, leveraging the efficiencies and design freedoms offered by fiberglass construction, a revolution the company had embraced wholeheartedly since the 1960s.

During its production run, the Oceanis 400 saw some variations to cater to different market segments. Notably, a center cockpit version, known as the Oceanis 400 CC, was also offered, providing an alternative layout for those prioritizing an aft cabin. Additionally, similar versions of the boat were sold to the charter trade under different designations, such as the Moorings 405 and Stardust 413, showcasing the model's adaptability and appeal to commercial operations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 400 is generally characterized as a comfortable, moderate-performance cruising yacht, known for its pleasant sailing characteristics and satisfying performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.6, the Oceanis 400 indicates a design that prioritizes comfortable cruising over out-and-out speed, yet it possesses enough canvas to perform capably in a variety of wind conditions. This ratio suggests a boat that will be well-behaved in heavier air but might require more wind to truly come alive.

Its Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of around 27.6% contributes to its stability, allowing it to stand up to a good breeze and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 193 places the Oceanis 400 in the lighter end of the cruising yacht spectrum, suggesting a design that avoids being overly heavy and sluggish, hinting at a lively and responsive feel at the helm. Owners frequently praise its overall balance and predictable handling, making it a suitable choice for both experienced sailors and those looking for a manageable cruising platform.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed as a spacious family cruiser, the Beneteau Oceanis 400 offers a considerable amount of living space below deck, appealing to those seeking comfort and luxury for extended periods aboard. The maximum headroom of approximately 6.23 feet (1.90 meters) further enhances the sense of openness and comfort within the cabin.

Common interior configurations for the Oceanis 400 included two or three cabins, with some rarer examples featuring a four-cabin layout. The saloon is typically described as light and cheerful, featuring a U-shaped settee and an expandable table to starboard, creating a welcoming dining and lounging area. To port, a dedicated navigation station is usually found. Aft, the boat commonly features two large double cabins, providing ample sleeping quarters for crew or guests. While specific details on finish quality vary with age and maintenance, Beneteau yachts of this era generally featured practical finishes with an emphasis on durability, often incorporating wood trim to create a warm interior ambiance. Effective ventilation is noted as a beneficial feature, especially in warmer climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 400 generally praise its attributes as a well-made and long-lasting vessel, echoing Beneteau's broader reputation for robust build quality. The boat is consistently lauded for its comfortable motion in a seaway and its generous interior volume, which provides a high degree of liveability for its size. Many appreciate its satisfying sailing performance, which strikes a good balance between speed and ease of handling for cruising purposes.

However, like any production yacht of its vintage, the Oceanis 400 has some commonly noted areas for attention. A recurring issue owners mention is the potential for water to become trapped in the hull stringers below the sole, often originating from various leaks such as sea spray, rain, or wash-down water. Additionally, some owners have discussed challenges related to the furling mainsail systems, indicating that these may occasionally require troubleshooting or maintenance. Despite these common points, the collective viewpoint of owners highlights the Oceanis 400 as a reliable and enjoyable cruiser, offering significant value and a strong sense of community among its owners.