Oceanis 42 CC (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

Designed by the renowned naval architecture firm Groupe Finot, led by Jean-Marie Finot, the Oceanis 42 CC carries the pedigree of a design team celebrated for creating innovative and performance-oriented yachts. Beneteau, with its long history rooted in the French maritime tradition, has evolved from building robust fishing trawlers to becoming a global leader in recreational boatbuilding, embracing fiberglass construction in the 1960s to democratize sailing. The 42 CC reflects Beneteau's enduring philosophy of combining comfortable accommodations with reliable sailing characteristics, a hallmark of their success in the cruising market.

History and Design

Production of the Beneteau Oceanis 42 CC commenced in 2003, continuing until 2007. During this four-year run, approximately 200 units were built, solidifying its presence as a well-regarded cruising platform. As a product of the early 2000s, the 42 CC benefited from Beneteau's established fiberglass construction techniques, which prioritized efficient production and robust build quality, contributing to the brand's reputation for value and reliability.

Groupe Finot's design philosophy for the Oceanis 42 CC centered on creating a high-volume hull that maximized interior space while ensuring capable sailing characteristics. The choice of a center cockpit layout was deliberate, allowing for two private cabins and providing a more secure and protected helm position, especially beneficial for offshore passages. While there isn't evidence of distinct MkI or MkII versions, the various names (Oceanis 42 CC, Beneteau 42 CC, Oceanis Clipper 42 CC) refer to the same fundamental design.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 42 CC is engineered to deliver a balanced and predictable sailing experience. With a total sail area of 878 square feet and a displacement of 19,845 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio calculates to approximately 19.25. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Oceanis 42 CC is likely to perform well in lighter air conditions, making it capable of moving efficiently even in gentle breezes. Its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 184.9 indicates a moderate displacement yacht, positioned between lighter performance cruisers and heavier, more traditional designs, contributing to its versatile sailing profile.

While its Ballast to Displacement ratio stands at approximately 0.279, which is on the lower side for stiffness, the boat is generally regarded for good stability and moderate displacement, making it suitable for coastal cruising. Anecdotal reports suggest the Oceanis 42 CC is "easy to handle on all points of sail" in moderate conditions, with "performance under sail being very good". This indicates that despite its cruising focus, it offers satisfying sailing dynamics, appealing to those who enjoy time spent under canvas. The wing keel design further contributes to its stability and reduced draft compared to deeper fin keels.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau Oceanis 42 CC is celebrated for its spacious and thoughtful interior, made possible by its generous beam of 12.83 feet and center cockpit design. The interior features crafted cherry-stained cabinetry and joinery, contributing to a warm and classic aesthetic. The layout typically includes a two-cabin, two-head configuration, ideal for couples cruising with guests or a small family.

A prominent feature is the owner's suite located aft, which boasts a centerline berth, offering privacy and comfort. The center cockpit design allows for a large aft cabin, often spanning the full beam of the boat, providing ample space and storage. Forward, there is usually a comfortable V-berth cabin, often with its own private head. The main salon is typically bright and functional, offering a comfortable living and dining area. While specific headroom figures are not universally listed, the high-volume hull design implies good standing room throughout. Storage is generally ample, a key consideration for extended cruising, and ventilation is typically well-addressed with numerous hatches and ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 42 CC frequently praise its suitability as a spacious liveaboard vessel capable of handling bluewater cruising. Many describe it as an "absolute pleasure to sail with 2 couples on board," highlighting its comfort and ease of use for shared experiences. The center cockpit design is a consistent point of appreciation, offering a secure feeling at sea and maximizing the interior volume, particularly the generous aft owner's cabin.

While generally well-regarded for its solid construction, some owners have noted specific areas for attention. One recurring comment relates to the steering system, with some reporting that "the steering becomes incredibly heavy" when beating close to the wind. Beyond this, common issues are not widely reported, though general maintenance concerns found on any boat of this era, such as older equipment needing replacement or typical fiberglass wear, would apply. Overall, the sentiment among owners points to a comfortable, capable, and enjoyable cruising platform.