Beneteau First 42 S7 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The influence of Bruce Farr is immediately apparent in the 42s7's sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio typically exceeding 21, the boat is exceptionally powered for its class, allowing it to excel in light to moderate air where heavier cruisers often struggle. The hull features a relatively low Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 175, which, combined with the deep fin keel (drawing roughly 7' 7" in the performance version), provides excellent upwind pointing ability and tracking.

Owners frequently report that the boat feels "stiff" and capable of carrying its canvas well into the 20-knot wind range, provided the crew manages the powerful mainsail effectively. The steering is typically described as responsive and communicative due to the large, balanced spade rudder. While a shallower wing keel version was produced for coastal cruising, it sacrifices some of the pointing ability and lift found in the deep-draft variant. Under power, the 42s7 is usually equipped with a Volvo or Yanmar engine ranging from 40 to 50 horsepower, providing enough thrust to maintain 7 knots in most sea states.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the First 42s7 is where Philippe Starck’s influence is most pronounced. Moving away from the dark, heavy woods of the 1980s, Starck utilized light-colored pear wood (Alpi) and rounded cabinetry to create a sense of volume and modernity. One of the most distinctive features is the "eye-shaped" aluminum-framed portlights, which allow significant natural light into the salon.

Beneteau offered the 42s7 in two primary configurations. The "Owner’s Version" features a two-cabin layout with a large, dedicated forward suite containing a pullman-style berth and a private head in the forepeak. This layout maximizes the galley and salon space, making it a favorite for long-distance couples. Conversely, the "Three-Cabin Version" was designed with chartering or larger families in mind, utilizing a V-berth forward and two symmetrical aft cabins. Both versions feature a linear galley to port and a large U-shaped settee to starboard. The use of molded fiberglass headliners and curved wood surfaces was revolutionary at the time, though it requires specific maintenance to prevent the "sticky" finish issues sometimes associated with 90s-era interior coatings.

Popular Mentions & Media

The First 42s7 has maintained a robust presence in the club racing circuit for decades. It was a staple in IMS (International Measurement System) racing during the mid-90s, often appearing in the results of the Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC). While it does not have a singular "celebrity" owner, the 42s7 is frequently cited in sailing literature as the pinnacle of the "Starck era" at Beneteau, often compared to its smaller sibling, the First 36s7, in retrospectives regarding 1990s yacht design evolution.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several high-signal areas common to this specific production run:

• Mast Step and Compression: There have been documented cases in owner circles of the mast step area showing signs of corrosion or compression, particularly if the rig has been tuned for aggressive racing.
• Rudder Bearings: The large spade rudder places significant stress on the bearings. Check for lateral play or "clunking" while the boat is hauled out, as the original bushings may require replacement to maintain steering precision.
• Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of this era, the 42s7 uses a balsa-cored deck. Particular attention should be paid to the areas around the shroud chainplates and the windlass, where moisture ingress can lead to delamination.
• Keel Bolts: While the keel joint is generally robust, the 42s7 uses a cast-iron keel (standard) or a lead/antimony keel (performance). Buyers should inspect the keel-to-hull joint for "smile" cracks, which may indicate the need for re-torquing the bolts or renewing the sealant.
• Interior Woodwork: The Alpi pear wood veneer used by Beneteau can be thin. Check for UV damage or water staining near portlights, as matching the original Starck-era finish can be difficult for DIY restorers.

Community & Resources

The Beneteau community is one of the largest in the world, providing a wealth of technical support for the First 42s7. The Beneteau Yacht Club serves as a primary hub for technical manuals and historical brochures. Additionally, the Beneteau Owners Association (specifically the North American and UK branches) maintains active registries and technical forums where owners discuss specific refit projects, such as upgrading the original 90s-era electronics or replacing the signature Starck portlight gaskets.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 42s7 remains a highly sought-after performance cruiser for those who value speed and striking design over traditional "shanty" aesthetics. It strikes a rare balance between a competitive club racer and a legitimate coastal cruiser.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• Bright, modern interior that feels larger than 42 feet.
• High-quality Bruce Farr hull design with a proven racing pedigree.
• Strong secondary market value and active owner community.

Cons:

• Original 1990s interior finishes may show wear or "stickiness."
• Deep-draft version is restrictive in shallow cruising grounds like the Bahamas.
• Requires active sail trimming to manage the large rig in heavy air.