Hull, Construction, and Naval Architecture
Farr's brief was to improve on the 40.7 in every measurable way, and the hull numbers reflect that ambition. The hull is beamier, lower, and sleeker than the 40.7's, and a foot longer, delivering 25 percent more righting moment through new build technologies that lowered the center of gravity and reduced overall hull weight. Powerful stern sections are complemented by a generous but shallow overhang aft that trims the static waterline and wetted surface — then adds effective sailing length the moment the hull heels.
Construction follows the same closed-mold injection process used across the First line, with vinylester resin-infused layup featuring zone-specific stitchmat laminates for extra strength in high-load areas. A structural inner liner is bonded throughout to the hull, and all major loads transfer through a chassis of solid laminate moldings rather than relying on bulkhead bonding alone. The deck is balsa sandwich reinforced with unidirectional rovings, with solid glass under winches, tracks, and the anchor windlass. The result is a hull that feels built to last: the construction philosophy is explicitly reminiscent of the original First series boats from the early 1980s, which is high praise for long-term structural integrity.
Keel Options and Stability
Two keels are available, and the choice matters considerably. The shallow version draws 6 feet 4 inches; the deep T-keel draws 8 feet and weighs roughly 760 pounds less than the shallow keel, with substantially less wetted surface — a genuine performance advantage that serious racers consistently opt for. Both keels use flared iron sections with a lead bulb. The deep-draft version produces handling closer to the First 10R but without that boat's fidgety quality, which is a useful calibration: it's precise and demanding rather than nervous.
The ballast-to-displacement ratio sits just under 40 percent in its standard configuration, and the capsize screening formula comes in right at 2.0 — the accepted boundary for ocean-passage suitability. These numbers underscore the First 40's positioning: fast enough to race seriously, stiff enough to handle offshore conditions, but buyers planning sustained bluewater passages should understand this is not a heavy cruiser.
Rig, Sail Plan, and Handling
The First 40 carries a tall rig set up as a 9/10 fractional sloop with a tapered three-spreader mast. Standard rigging is flattened dyform wire; the Carbon Edition steps it up with a carbon mast and rod rigging for outright racing. A retractable carbon bowsprit makes deploying an asymmetric spinnaker straightforward, and the deck is prefitted for spinnaker gear as standard. Harken 48ST primaries and spinnaker winches sit on the coamings, with two 44STs aft on the coachroof where most control lines are led — a layout that keeps the cockpit clean and the crew efficient.
Under sail, the First 40 rewards precise technique. Building flow over the foils before seeking height upwind is essential, and the boat thrives on correct twist control — vang and mainsheet trim take priority; backstay tension is secondary. In a breeze, the helm stays light and accurate: a few inches of ease on the mainsheet was all it took to keep the boat on its feet in 15-22 knots. Once the breeze builds past 20 knots, the boat's motion takes on an almost unexpected urgency, with smooth acceleration and a precise, enjoyable feel from the high-aspect rudder.
The large cockpit features removable seat/lockers that can be left on the dock for racing, converting the working area into an uncluttered platform where crew can stand at winches without obstacles. The mainsheet traveler sits on the sole just forward of the wheel, keeping the cockpit uncluttered and the helmsman's sight lines clear. A life raft locker is integrated into the cockpit sole, freeing the cockpit of the usual transom clutter. The open transom drains instantly and provides easy water access via a fold-down ladder.
Accommodations
Below, Nauta Design's layout offers maximum habitability within a racing hull. The light oak veneer creates an airy, contemporary ambience, and the combination of white laminate and oak keeps the cabin bright. The arrangement places double aft cabins aft with 6 feet of headroom, hanging lockers, and berths 6 feet 6 inches long. Forward, the V-berth runs 6 feet 8 inches at its longest with an ensuite head, making the forward cabin genuinely usable for offshore sailing. The two symmetrical aft cabins, each with a double berth measuring 2.00m by 1.50m, give the First 40 three private sleeping cabins in a 40-foot hull — an arrangement few competitors matched.
The nav station is the standout interior feature, with a wraparound chart table and desk, ample room for electronics, and easy access for mounting repeaters. The galley is L-shaped, positioned to brace against under sail, with double sinks, an icebox, and a dedicated rubbish bin — a small practical detail that reflects genuine thought about offshore use. Saloon settees convert to berths at 1.95 meters, and the adjustable centerline table seats six. Ventilation is handled by opening portlights complementing overhead hatches.
Known Limitations
No boat at this size and price point is without trade-offs, and the First 40 is candid about its priorities. The centerline saloon table means the saloon is not ideal for laying out sails or working when racing. Handholds could be more generous — moving around when the boat is well heeled requires care. The fuel capacity at 36 gallons is lean for extended passages under power, and the standard electrical system of one house and one starting battery will need augmentation for offshore racing or extended cruising. The open transom, while excellent for draining and water access, means there is not much of a bridgedeck, and water can find its way below in heavy following seas if hatches are not managed carefully.
The shallow-draft keel carries significantly more ballast weight and more wetted surface than the deep option — buyers who intend to race should budget the deep T-keel in from the start, as the difference in performance and handling character is substantial.
Refit and Carbon Edition Considerations
Beneteau offered the First 40 in a Carbon Edition delivered ready to race, equipped with carbon mast, lead keel, black composite steering wheel, and Raymarine electronics adapted for regatta sailing. For buyers acquiring a standard version who want to race seriously, the structural argument for the T-keel upgrade is compelling given the weight reduction and wetted surface advantage. Electrical systems are the other priority: battery capacity is undersized for offshore use as delivered, and upgrading the house bank is one of the first practical steps any owner planning overnight passages should take.
The Verdict
The Beneteau First 40 is a genuine racer-cruiser that earns its hyphen on both sides. Farr's design is elegant in its priorities — maximum righting moment and minimum wetted surface in a hull that is stiff, light, and fast, wrapped around accommodations that are genuinely livable rather than merely tolerable. Early sales success closely paralleled the 40.7's trajectory, and the boat's offshore racing record speaks for itself. The cabin is not where you buy this boat; you buy it because you want to sail fast all the time and still have somewhere comfortable to sleep when you arrive.
Pros
- Proven offshore racing pedigree with top-tier international results out of the box
- Bruce Farr hull delivers a light, precise helm across a wide wind range
- Three private sleeping cabins in a forty-foot racing hull
- Closed-mold construction with zone-specific laminates built for longevity
- Removable cockpit seats convert quickly between racing and cruising modes
- Retractable carbon bowsprit makes asymmetric spinnaker handling straightforward
- Carbon Edition available for buyers seeking a ready-to-race package
Cons
- Capsize screening at the ocean-passage threshold — not a heavy bluewater cruiser
- Standard battery bank undersized for offshore or extended coastal use
- Shallow-draft keel buyers sacrifice significant performance relative to the deep T-keel option
- Centerline table limits saloon utility when sails need to come below
- Modest bridgedeck means water management at the companionway requires attention offshore
- Lean fuel capacity of 36 gallons limits motoring range on passages
