Beneteau First Ims 40.7 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The First 40.7 is celebrated for its balanced helm and "stiff" sailing characteristics, largely a result of its high ballast-to-displacement ratio and Bruce Farr’s signature hull lines. Under sail, the boat is known for being exceptionally weatherly, tacking through narrow angles and maintaining momentum in light air—a common trait of IMS-optimized designs. According to editorial assessments by Yachting Monthly, the boat rewards a precise touch and active trimming but remains forgiving enough for a shorthanded cruising couple.

The cockpit is designed with a removable locker system, allowing sailors to clear the space for racing maneuvers or reinstall them for additional seating and storage while cruising. The large-diameter wheel provides excellent mechanical advantage and allows the helmsman to sit well outboard with a clear view of the telltales. While most models feature the deep 2.40m "Regatta" keel for maximum lift and stability, a 1.90m shallow-draft version was also produced for coastal cruising. The fractional rig is typically equipped with triple aft-swept spreaders, providing a robust platform that handles heavy weather with composure, provided the mast is tuned correctly.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike many dedicated racing machines of its time, the interior of the First 40.7 does not compromise on livability. The standard layout features three double cabins—one forward and two aft—and a single head located to starboard. The use of warm pear wood or cherry finishes, combined with Beneteau’s signature molded headliners, creates an environment that feels more like a traditional cruiser than a stripped-out racer.

The saloon is centered around a large folding table with U-shaped seating to port and a straight settee to starboard. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6'3" in the main cabin, which contributes to an airy feel. The galley is functional but compact, featuring a gimbaled stove, double stainless steel sinks, and a top-loading refrigerator. Sibling variations are mostly limited to rig and keel configurations rather than interior floorplans, though later "LE" (Limited Edition) versions featured updated upholstery and trim details. The 40.7's interior durability has proven itself over time, though boats heavily used for racing may show more wear on the sole boards and companionway steps than those kept strictly for cruising.

Popular Mentions & Media

The First 40.7’s most notable claim to fame came in 2003, when the model First Ever won the grueling Sydney Hobart Yacht Race overall on handicap. This victory cemented the 40.7's reputation as a legitimate offshore contender capable of surviving extreme Southern Ocean conditions while outperforming more expensive custom yachts. The model has also been a staple of the Rolex Middle Sea Race and various Key West Race Week events, often sweeping podium positions in class starts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the First 40.7 with a checklist focused on its structural integrity and racing history. Because many of these boats were campaigned hard, specific areas require professional inspection:

• Internal Grid (Matrix) Bond: The most critical area is the bond between the hull and the internal fiberglass structural grid. High-load racing or groundings can cause the grid to delaminate from the hull. This should be inspected for "star" fractures or visible gaps, particularly around the keel floors.
• Keel Bolts & Plate: Given the 40.7's deep keel and high righting moment, the keel bolts and the surrounding area of the hull should be checked for signs of movement or rust "weeping," which may indicate a need for retorquing or a keel drop-and-reseal.
• Rudder Bearings: The self-aligning rudder bearings can develop play over time, leading to a "clunky" feel in the helm. Replacing these requires dropping the rudder, a common maintenance task for this vintage.
• Mast Step & Rigging: On models with the tall racing rig, the mast step should be checked for compression. Additionally, as these boats reach two decades of age, the standing rigging should be replaced if not already documented.

Community & Resources

The model is supported by the Beneteau Owners Association, which maintains extensive technical archives and forum discussions specific to the First range. Because the boat was a popular choice for charter racing fleets (such as Sunsail), there is a vast secondary market for parts and specialized knowledge regarding optimizations for the Farr 40.7 hull.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First IMS 40.7 remains a premier choice for the sailor who refuses to choose between silver trophies and family vacations. It is a fast, seaworthy, and aesthetically pleasing yacht that has aged remarkably well.

Pros:

• Exceptional upwind performance and light-air sensitivity.
• True three-cabin cruising interior with genuine wood finishes.
• Large production run ensures easy access to parts and resale liquidity.
• Strong class association and proven offshore pedigree.

Cons:

• High-performance keels make the boat "tender" if not reefed early.
• Many examples on the market have been heavily used for racing and require refitting.
• Deep draft (2.4m) limits access to some shallow cruising grounds.
• The internal hull grid requires careful surveying to ensure structural integrity.