Beneteau 40 First Yachts For Sale

The Beneteau First 40 is a Farr-designed cruiser-racer produced to deliver a balance of offshore capability and competitive performance. The hull form is moderate in displacement with a fine entry and broader stern sections, paired with a balanced spade rudder; in performance-oriented configurations the model is commonly fitted with an 8‑foot deep T‑keel and a tall fractional, three‑spreader tapered mast to increase upwind pointing, light‑air power and overall stiffness. The sail plan supports large symmetric spinnakers and was developed to perform under IRC/ORC and club racing rules as well as for delivery and offshore passages.

Below decks the First 40 generally adopts a three‑cabin layout with two aft double cabins and a forward double cabin, along with a saloon that converts to additional berths. Interior design by Nauta is referenced in multiple listings, often finished in light oak or Alpi blond oak veneers to create an airy feel. Galley and navigation arrangements are conventional for the class, with an L‑shaped galley and a dedicated nav station; heads arrangements vary between boats and can include a forward head with shower or separate forward owner’s head depending on the outfitting.

On deck the prototype and racing variants differ in focus: some boats show an open racing cockpit with efficient traveler, mainsheet systems and winches laid out for full crew work, while cruising examples emphasize a large, practical cockpit with significant under‑sole stowage and ergonomics suited to short‑handed sailing. Auxiliary propulsion is by diesel engine and onboard systems commonly include robust navigation, communications and charging packages to support coastal and offshore passages.

The First 40 has a documented track record in both charter and club/offshore racing environments. Individual boats in the market reflect a wide range of histories and refit levels—from former Sunsail charter use with documented survey repairs to race‑optimised refits and substantial 2022 upgrade programmes—so condition, keel/rig specification and fit‑out should be reviewed on a boat‑by‑boat basis. The model was recognized by Sailing World as the 2010 Crossover Boat of the Year, illustrating its intended dual‑purpose character.