beneteau sailboat reviews

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Bénéteau Sense 50 review: It all makes sense – from the archive

• Toby Hodges
• May 5, 2021

Béneteau’s ground-breaking Sense range is leading the way in stylish living and home comforts afloat. Toby Hodges sails the first of the range, the creative Bénéteau Sense 50

Like it or not, newcomers to sailing are buying larger boats. Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images Credit: Richard Langdon/Ocean Images

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

Like it or not, newcomers to sailing are buying larger boats.

For many people, ease of living aboard is now the focus.

Bénéteau’s striking new Sense range takes this trend to greater extremes than any production boat we’ve seen.

In fact, its open-plan living area and en-suites seem nearly as suited to a two-bed flat with sun terrace as to a yacht.

Apart from extreme aft beam, twin rudders and chines, a pivotal design decision was to dispense with aft cabins.

By keeping all accommodation forward and lowering the cockpit sole, the boat divides into three, yet with little or no barrier between outside and in.

Features such as the mainsheet arch, open transom and large plexiglass windows were trialled with success on the Oceanis 58.

But at nearly half the price yet most of the volume, the Sense seems tailored to suit the cruising couple looking for sailing indulgence.

Groupe Bénéteau’s Yves Mandin says the Sense concept grew from the cruising market’s shift towards deck saloons and catamarans and the desire to create a design with comfort and elegance.

“We also wanted the boat to heel less,” he adds, stating that the Sense will heel 5˚ less than the Oceanis.

The design is rooted in an 118ft concept that architects Berret Racoupeau created in 2006.

Bénéteau liked the Evoe, asked for something similar, but smaller and the Sense was born.

“More comfort, less technical will be much better for the sailing market, with a focus on ease of living 24/7,” says Olivier Racoupeau.

Outdoors was also central to the design – it had to be very big and wide – while an option for a crew cabin was required for markets such as Turkey.

Following the development of four prototypes, build for the Bénéteau Sense 50 began in November and Bénéteau sold 20 during the autumn boat shows.

Half the buyers to date have chosen the Dock&Go joystick steering Half have also opted for crew cabins.

A Sense 43 will be at the London and Düsseldorf shows, and a 55 will follow next summer.

Sailing the Bénéteau Sense 50

For our test, Les Sables d’Olonne provided flat seas and a crisp Force 5 to 6.

Yves Mandin recommended we reef at around 17 knots and I soon appreciated why.

With the lot up for the photoshoot, she was fully powered up on a broad reach.

Armed with a tall rig for lighter airs to propel all that wetted surface area, the Sense certainly prefers to be sailed fairly flat.

As it was, I could sense the power available, but at the expense of feel – with little feedback from the twin rudders, she was hard to keep in a groove.

Out of the water, the rudders had looked deep and close together, meaning they would be constantly submerged.

This could account for the drag and lack of feel. Yet she trucked along nicely, taking a gust with a gentle heel, and accelerated easily.

The helmsman’s seats can be raised for easier access to the bathing platform.

With a reef in the main and three rolls in the genoa, she was more enjoyable and well balanced.

She still wandered, but made over 7 knots, albeit only at 50-55˚ – pointing is not the Sense’s forte – and tacking the 105 per cent genoa was effortless.

She would be easy for two to handle, or even solo with an autopilot.

Under full genoa and with the wind on our quarter, the speed increased a knot and a half.

The main disappointment was not being able to assess her downwind credentials fully because the wind was deemed too strong for the cruising chute.

It seemed difficult for the helmsman to stand or sit to windward on our test boat – Mandin said an angled sitting-out seat and a raised foot-chock was being added – but the helm seats did offer lavish comfort.

These lift up for access to the bathing platform, but I found the gap between the backrests and pushpit quarters a little alarming.

One benefit of lowering the level of the cockpit sole is low freeboard, which is uncharacteristic of today’s voluminous cruisers.

It also ensures you’re never too exposed while still commanding uninterrupted views forward.

Down below those large hull windows allow good visibility to leeward, and getting across her wide beam proved problem-free.

Mooring Nintendo-style

“It’s a game,” is how Bénéteau describe their joystick-controlled 180° rotating saildrive Dock&Go system.

This is one of the most intuitive systems I’ve ever used.

Within seconds, I had this unfamiliar 50-footer parked against a finger berth in a Force 4-5 crosswind.

Developed with ZF (German) and Yanmar for their 75hp engines, the system is exclusive to Groupe Bénéteau for three years.

Apartment interior of the Bénéteau Sense 50

Three shallow steps lead into an apartment of an interior.

Spacious and social, the Sense is in a league of its own in terms of comfort, light and views.

Saloon seats face the linear galley with an island unit, aft-facing windows blur the division between outside and in, and a vast beam and 7ft headroom create abundant space.

Our test boat had all the electric options – blinds, TVs, tables and washboards.

The island hides a flatscreen TV as well as a bench for extra seating around the table or it can be used for stowage.

It also offers security in the galley and while moving forward.

Our boat had the office over the Pullman berth option, which puzzled me initially.

But given that it’s rare for couples to sail with more than one set of guests at a time, two double en-suites makes sense.

Numerous down-lighters and indirect lighting help create an inviting ambience after dark – central to the apartment feel.

Batteries, water and fuel tanks are in a spacious bilge under the central raised saloon sole.

The sleeping and accommodation zone is forward, away from the dock, while machinery (pumps, genset, etc) is aft to reduce noise further.

A closer look at the Bénéteau Sense 50

Two modes: conventional, which seats six around a fold-out table (including the pull-out seat from the island); or suave, created when the table is lowered to form a cocktail table and the navstation seat raises at the end, chaise-longue style.

There is limited stowage, with only a couple of raised lockers and little room below the berths.

A practical option for this lowered format would be to create a large double berth (not yet an option).

There is limited stowage, with only a couple of raised lockers and little room below the berths, but there’s certainly room elsewhere on board.

Master cabin

Certainly comfortable, though a bit of an anti-climax in comparison to the rest of the Sense.

Stowage is limited, but well arranged, with a mix of drawers, cupboards and his and hers wardrobes.

Stowage is limited, but well arranged.

Headroom and light are impressive, and the en-suite contains a separate shower.

With its abundant natural light, views and headroom, the galley is welcoming to the novice nautical chef.

A long worksurface, which can extend over the stove, moulds seamlessly into a large double sink.

The galley is welcoming to the novice nautical chef.

Stowage includes a 2ft deep bilge with liners; a large fridge with front and top opening and optional coolbox; plus a double slide-out bin.

The aft windows also aid interaction with the cockpit.

An extension of the saloon, with the inboard ‘chaise-longue’ making this a practical option on port tack.

But it feels odd not to have a backrest. The chart-table is wide and there’s reasonable raised locker stowage.

Wiring access is good via the port cockpit locker/crew cabin.

The aft- facing table allows excellent contact with cockpit or starboard helm.

Office/Pullman

Maximises space through a large sliding door. In office guise, mattress cushions designed for the desktop store neatly in an alcove, allowing for a makeshift single cabin.

Cupboards and drawers surround the desk – even the stool top lifts for stowage or waste area below.

For and against – Interior

• Touches like chunky door handles throughout, powerful door magnets or slats under the bunk give the Sense the feel of a high-quality boat.
• Metal nipples on the sole boards prevent creaking.
• All drawers have soft-closing latches and raised lockers have slow opening hinges.
• There’s an impressive amount of extra stowage beneath the cabin sole – all boards lift on suckers and lining trays are used.
• White leather is an impractical option and although the cream head and side lining are very smart, they were already decorated in numerous grubby handprints. Could be more durably attached too.
• Look hard and you can see the telltale signs of the production prototype such as bare plywood mounts and flimsy panels in front of the blinds.
• Engine access was acceptable, but we took issue with the complete lack of generator servicing access.

Bénéteau Sense 50 verdict

There will be traditionalists who despise the Sense, but I champion it as an agent of change.

It is the antithesis of the traditional dark yacht interior and its space, comfort, light and views are unrivalled for those who cruise in warm climes.

“It’s about broadening people’s thoughts about how to live on a boat as a couple,” says Bénéteau’s Yves Mandin.

I like what Bénéteau have done here. There are some prototype finishing gremlins, but there’s so much creative thinking and innovation aboard that to my mind this boat is the talking point of the year.

It proved quicker and more powerful than the Oceanis 58 on which it was modelled.

The Dock&Go joystick steering deserves an award in its own right and with her modern design the Sense seems likely to win Bénéteau a new client base.

Our test conditions showed she is rigged for light airs, but she’s happier when sailed flat, so it’s best to respect the powerful form produced by her generous beam.

The true test of the Sense would come at anchor in an idyllic Mediterranean bay; taking a stroll from the master suite to the transom and diving overboard or simply relaxing on deck.

Maybe next time!

First published in the November 2010 issue of YW.

• Yachting Monthly
• Digital edition

Beneteau First 235

• September 24, 2009

Beneteau First 235 - good performance and fun to sail

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

Loosely based on a very early Finot design from 1978, the 235 was also available in either fixed-keel or lifting-keel form. First appearing in 1986, over half the 680 built were produced in Bénéteau’s American factory. She performed well and was fun to sail but the lifting keel version was a handful in strong winds. She had plenty of volume below decks, thanks to the generous beam and long waterline. A lot of space was given over to the galley and heads, where simplicity of fit-out was the keynote. There were two bunks in the saloon and a double in the aftercabin.

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Sailing Totem
• Sailor & Galley
• Living Aboard
• Destinations
• Gear & Electronics
• Charter Resources
• Ultimate Boat Giveaway

Beneteau 31

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: October 14, 2008

Spirited wind gods had whipped San Francisco Bay to a 30-knot frenzy during the final days of the Strictly Sail Pacific boat show last April, but they finally took a break in time for us to test-sail the new Beneteau 31, the entry-level offering in a now robust line of 30- and 40-footers that includes two CW Boat of the Year winners, the 40 and the 49.

With the wind in the low teens, we left the docks at Passage Yacht Sales, pushed along by a 20-horsepower Yanmar and conventional drive. The boat maneuvered well backing out of tight quarters and accelerated smoothly through the chop as we raised sails.

In-mast furling is an option on the 31, but the boat we sailed had a full-batten main that stows in a boom-mounted pouch. Both the main and the 105-percent genoa on a Profurl furler are easy to handle but powerful enough to move the boat in lighter winds. When sailing the boat off the wind, I’d take advantage of the open bow pulpit and choose the optional asymmetric cruising chute to keep things lively.

A fold-up transom seat gives the helmsman a place to sit and allows easy access to the swim platform, a dinghy, or the dock. The relatively broad aft end provides ample room going forward in the cockpit, past the standard 36-inch wheel. On the 31, a fold-up hatch in the port quarter provides space for a life raft; by adding a container, it could be used to store gear. A conventional locker is to starboard.

Cockpit seats are long enough for a nap and close enough to provide bracing when heeled. Coamings, though, end at the binnacle, so while the person steering has a flat deck on which to sit, there’s little to brace one’s back against, and I found the pushpit too far away to provide a comfortable support when sitting to leeward.

From the helm, the skipper has good access to the boat’s primary winches, a pair of Lewmar 30s, but reaching the mainsheet, which leads to a third winch on the cabin top, requires leaving the wheel.

Under sail, the spade rudder and Goiot steering give the boat a lively and responsive feel. Our speed sailing closehauled over the ground averaged a little better than 5 knots in 12 knots true; when we were cracked off to a beam reach, the readout on the G.P.S. increased to about 6.3 knots. With its small headsail, the boat tacked with ease through only 70 degrees or so, promising an efficient ride upwind.

A low coachroof and genoa tracks along the cabin leave the decks clear for movement fore and aft. Teak handholds on the cabin top are stylish, but like others on this new breed of Beneteaus, they’re open only on one side, and I found it hard to get my fingers around them. A good-size anchor locker on the bow has a mounting space designed for an optional windlass.

Groupe Finot created a hull with a fine entry and beam carried well aft; its larger siblings have all been enjoyable sailers, and the 31 didn’t disappoint. The interior, meanwhile, benefits from the straight-lined and elegant thinking of Nauta Design. There are no curved settees and whimsical doodads on this cruiser. Instead, purposeful and comfortable seats on either side of a drop-leaf table can, with the addition of lee cloths, double as sea berths or places to stash little crewmembers once the spacious athwartships aft-cabin berth and V-berth have been filled.

At the foot of the companionway, a head and shower sit to starboard. To port, the L-shaped galley is equipped with a two-burner propane stove and oven, and there’s an icebox with 12-volt refrigeration outboard of the double sinks, which are positioned on the L, closer to the centerline where they belong. Storage space is behind and under the countertop. Forward of the head, the nav station faces aft and uses the end of the settee for a bench. The electrical panel mounted above the desk opens with the push of a latch to reveal neatly organized wiring and automotive-style fuses that can be reset. Both the desk and the galley counters opposite have solid fiddles that also serve as good handholds.

The placement of the forward bulkhead maximizes space in the saloon for entertaining a couple or the family. The trade-off: a V-berth that’s functional for sleeping but not overly roomy, especially with the filler section in place for the berth. That said, there’s 6-foot headroom, a hanging locker for clothes, storage below the mattress, and shelving to either side. The saloon and V-berth both have opening hatches, and with five opening ports, ventilation should be good.

The hand-laid solid-fiberglass hull derives stiffness from a grid that’s bonded and glassed into place while still in the mold. An injected, cored F.R.P. sandwich forms the deck, which sits on the hull’s turned-in flange and is glued and screwed in place. Bulkheads are bonded 360 degrees to the hull and deck using a polyurethane adhesive. While sailing, I found that this construction meant no squeaks or groans below. You can choose between a 6-foot-1-inch standard cast-iron keel or a 4-foot-5-inch shoal-draft version.

One of my favorite details on the 31 is the weatherboard and the companionway hatch, a design used on both the 31 and the 37. (See “Beneteau 37: Quick on its Feet,” August 2008). Once the Lexan hatch has been pushed forward into its seahood, the weatherboard, also clear Lexan, lifts out and slides into place under the hatch and out of the way, solving the problem of where to store the panel below.

The new 31 is entry level in terms of size and price only-$115,000, ready to sail on the U.S. East Coast. With its teak toerails, stylishly arched cabin top, and good performance under sail, delivers a lot of boat for the dollar and, in this regard, fits in well with the rest of the family.

Mark Pillsbury is Cruising World’s senior editor.

LOA 31′ 8″ (9.60 m.) LWL 28′ 6″ (8.69 m.) Beam 11′ 1″ (3.38 m.) Draft (standard/shoal) 6′ 1″/4′ 5″ (1.85/1.35 m.) Sail Area (100%) 463 sq. ft. (43 sq. m.) Ballast (standard/shoal) 2,207/2,412 lb. (1,001/1,094 kg.) Displacement 8,933 lb. (4,052 kg.) Ballast/D (standard/shoal) .25/.27 D/L 172 SA/D 17.2 Water 34 gal. (129 l.) Fuel 34 gal. (129 l.) Mast Height 46′ 7″ (14.2 m.) Engine 20-hp. Yanmar Designer Groupe Finot Price $115,000 Beneteau USA (843) 629-5300

To read more Cruising World reviews of Beneteau sailboats, click here . To visit Beneteau America’s website, click here .

• More: 2001 - 2010 , 31 - 40 ft , beneteau , Coastal Cruising , monohull , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

Sailboat Preview: Elan GT6 Explorer

For Sale: 1984 Camper & Nicholsons 58

Alubat Updates OVNI Models

For Sale: Little Harbor 63 Ketch

Sailing Avocet : A New Adventure Begins

​​Options To Explore

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter

Mason 33 Used Boat Review

Beneteau 311, Catalina 310 and Hunter 326 Used Boat Comparison

Maine Cat 41 Used Boat Review

Cheoy Lee Clipper 36 & 42 Used Boat Review

Tips From A First “Sail” on the ICW

Tillerpilot Tips and Safety Cautions

Best Crimpers and Strippers for Fixing Marine Electrical Connectors

Thinking Through a Solar Power Installation

Stopping Mainsheet Twist

Working with High-Tech Ropes

Getting a Clue for the Blown-Out Clew

Monel Seizing Wire is Worth the Extra Cost

Fuel Lift Pump: Easy DIY Diesel Fuel System Diagnostic and Repair

Ensuring Safe Shorepower

Sinking? Check Your Stuffing Box

The Rain Catcher’s Guide

Boat Maintenance for the Technically Illiterate: Part 1

Whats the Best Way to Restore Clear Plastic Windows?

Mastering Precision Drilling: How to Use Drill Guides

Giving Bugs the Big Goodbye

Galley Gadgets for the Cruising Sailor

Those Extras you Don’t Need But Love to Have

UV Clothing: Is It Worth the Hype?

Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing

How to Select Crew for a Passage or Delivery

Preparing A Boat to Sail Solo

On Watch: This 60-Year-Old Hinckley Pilot 35 is Also a Working…

On Watch: America’s Cup

On Watch: All Eyes on Europe Sail Racing

Dear Readers

Chafe Protection for Dock Lines

• Sailboat Reviews

Beneteau First 42s 7

A recent addition to the first series, the 42s7, is a handsome, production racer/ cruiser design from bruce farr..

Since it first began producing performance-oriented cruisers in 1976, Beneteau has achieved tremendous success in the American market; it is now the third largest producer in America, outsold only by Catalina and Hunter. Like them, Beneteau strives for contemporary, affordable designs that are efficiently built.

We recently checked out the 42s7 Owner’s Version, a recent addition to the First line, which continues Beneteau’s trend of offering boats, both in lines and accommodations, that attempt to establish a look that is distinctive in a crowd.

The Company

Beneteau, which advertises itself as the largest manufacturer of boats in the world, was founded in 1884 by Benjamin Beneteau to build trawlers for fishermen. Nearly a century later, in 1964, the company entered the field of motorboat and sailboat construction, and began employing fiberglass construction methods. Operation of the company continues under the direction of Annette Roux, who along with two brothers represents the third generation of family members to manage the company.

Beneteau introduced its First line of sailboats in 1976, a series of performance yachts that produced race-winning results on the international circuit. Ten years later, the Oceanis line followed, targeted to a market described by the company as those “enjoying the pleasure of the sea.” The combination of a strong American dollar and a then-growing boating market resulted in the company’s decision in 1986 to open a production facility in Marion, South Carolina, where both lines of boats are produced. The company has built more than 1,000 boats at its American facility. Annual gross sales are estimated at more than $70 million.

The Design Beneteau has commissioned the services of well­known designers, mostly Frenchmen.

Andre Maurie designed the First 30, which won Boat of the Year Honors at the Paris Boat Show in 1978. Jean Berret designed Beneteau’s Admiral’s Cup winner in 1985 and the First 345 (PS December, 1991). PhilIipe Briand, who designed the French America’s Cup contender, drew the lines for the Oceanis 350 (PS Novem­ber 1, 1995).

Bruce Farr, perhaps the most prominent designer of racing yachts in the world today, has designed the most recent additions to the First line. Prior to lofting the 42s7, Beneteau commissioned him to design a number of larger boats, including the 50.

Russell Bowler of the Farr office in Annapolis, who also was involved in each project, told us that the challenge in designing the 42s7 was to ameliorate the compromise between Beneteau’s desire to have large interi­or volume and, at the same time, have hull shapes that would satisfy the so­called performance cruiser.

In Bowler’s words, “The 42s7 has benefited from our early work with the company, since we have contin­ued to tinker with the basic design to create a shape that produces a fast boat. We also have integrated new technology in the production phase to produce lighter boats more efficiently.”

Phillippe Starck, a designer of boat interiors, joined the team to style the accommodations.

The First 42s7 follows the Beneteau tradition of sexy, Euro-styled boats, though it does not have the wraparound windshields found on some models, nor does it have a com­pletely plumb bow.

Rather, the boat has a soft, rounded profile, especially in the stern, where the transom is almost oval shaped. The deck is uncluttered, benefiting from a fiberglass halyard cov­er, a section of fiberglass under which are led to the cockpit all lines except jib and spinnaker sheets. The cabin­top has an exceptionally low profile, especially for a boat that has 6′ 5″ headroom in the saloon. In turn, this means fairly high freeboard. With a light-to-moderate displacement of about 179, there’s not much below the waterline.

The Sparcraft mast is a 7 /8 fractional rig with two sets of slightly swept-back spreaders. The mainsail luff measurement of the cruising version is 47.41′; the racing version is 52.49′. Standing rigging is Navtec rod, and shrouds terminate more than 18″ inboard of the toerail, which facili­tates easy movement along the side­deck. The backstay has an adjuster. The sail area/ displacement ratio ranges from 17.8 to 19.5, depending on whether you have the standard or race rig.

Underwater appendages, however, are not Grand Prix racing shapes, though still slippery. The rudder is a conventional spade design, and the rudderpost is made of composite materials, a boatbuilding trend that saves weight. Three keels are available: a deep fin and two shoal draft versions, one with a bulb and another with winglets.

Two windows are molded into each side of the hull, as are four open­ing ports. Narrow, vertical windows are molded into the cabin just aft of the shrouds, and four hatches are situated on deck. The overall affect of this arrangement is an interior filled with light, even on cloudy days.

Deck/Cockpit Layout

If you don’t like the maintenance of teak, you ’11 like the deck plan. The cabin top handrails are stainless steel, which, of course, are less expensive and lighter than teak. The only wood on the deck is a highly varnished teak toerail, and teak inserts in the cockpit seats. An aluminum toerail can be substituted.

Beneteau 42s7

LOA: 42′ 6″

LWL: 35′ 9″

Beam: 13′ 6″

Draft (deep) 7′ 7″

Draft (shoal): 5′ 11″

Displacement: 18,220 lbs.

Ballast (deep): 6,283 lbs.

Ballast (shoal): 5,840 lbs.

Sail area (cruise): 771 sq. ft.

Sail area (race): 845 sq. ft.

Sail area/disp. ratio: 17.8-19.5

Disp./length ratio: 179

Righting Moment: 115 degrees

The fiberglass halyard cover makes for a cleaner deck and reduces the likelihood of crew tripping over lines.

An anodized aluminum section on the bow doubles as the stem fitting and anchor roller. While this one­piece arrangement must be cost effec­tive, the short roller will not easily accommodate a plow anchor … maybe a lightweight style, but those seldom stow well on rollers. On the First 42s7, odds are the anchor will be stowed below when underway. For regular cruising, you’d want to workout a better arrangement.

The anchor locker has a platform large enough to mount a windlass and stow a decent chain and rope rode. The drum of the ProFurl roller reefer also is below deck level in the anchor compartment, which keeps the bearing race out of the weather and the drum out of the way of the anchor when hauling the latter aboard. We’re glad to see Beneteau using the top notch ProFurl, especially after the headaches a number of owners expe­rienced last year when some Isofurl systems failed and had to be recalled.

Standard running rigging for internal main and genoa halyards is 7 /16″ rope. Halyards, outhaul, Cunningham, and lines for the lsomat solid vang are led aft to six Spinlock stoppers mounted on the bridgedeck forward of Lewmar 44 self-tailing winches.

The mainsheet and traveler system, which is equipped with Harken blocks and track, is situated forward of the companionway. Though control lines are led to the cockpit, they are so far from the wheel that a single­handed sailor will find this arrange­ment difficult to manage unless there’s an autopilot. Again, the emphasis is on racing with a crew.

The track for the jib sheets is laid at the inner edge of the toerail, which avoids stubbed toes. Harken track and turning blocks are standard equip­ment. A block and tackle arrangement that allows changes in sheeting angles while under load, a feature typically found only on racing boats, is a part of the system.

Stanchions are 24″, all through bolted and secured with backing plates, and double lifelines.

Aside from its most prominent feature-a 55″ destroyer wheel covered with dark leather-the cockpit is an unremarkable area. It is large enough to seat eight people and is contoured for comfort.

Two cavernous lazarettes are situ­ated beneath the stern seat, which spans the width of the boat. Aside from being easily accessible, the covers are large enough for an adult to climb down into the area. On the Owner’s Version, there is a second lazarette to starboard; on the tri-cabin model, however, much of that space is lost .

The stern section also houses a swim platform and freshwater shower that folds down when in use; it is secured by the low-tech arrangement of a line running from the stern through a block on the platform and back to a cam cleat mounted in the lazarette.

A pair of Lewmar #50 self-tailing cockpit jib sheet winches will be ad­equate for flying light air drifters. Two additional winches will be necessary to fly a conventional spinnaker.

The plethora of ports, hatches, and a 5/8″ acrylic companionway hatch combine to bring in a lot of light. Combined with the 13′ beam and 6′ 5″ headroom, there is a feeling of spa­ciousness. Portlights can be covered by pulling out the roll-up shades.

Starck’ s interior of pearwood, plastic counters and smooth gelcoat surfaces has little nautical feeling. But for the sound of wind whistling in the shrouds, the feel is similar to that of a contemporary living room.

The boat we inspected is the full­time residence of two professionals in Seattle who are experiencing the live-aboard life-style for the first time. Three months after moving from a three-bedroom residence, they have concluded that, with careful planning and the rental of a storage locker for seasonal gear, the 42-footer is spacious enough to meet their needs. The saloon and galley are about 14′ long.

The Owner’s Version has a large cabin aft to port, a head off the saloon, a second cabin located forward of the saloon, and a second head in the bow. The tri-cabin version has two smaller berths in the stern, and the same arrangement forward.

The centerpiece of the saloon in each model is a rounded settee fur­nished with brightly covered cushions. The dining area, which mea­sures 72″ x 94″, includes a separate, moveable cushioned bench that dou­bles as a storage compartment. Additional seating is on a port side settee.

A nav station, which faces aft, is located at the end of the port settee in the saloon. Based on our cruising experience, we think navigators might prefer a larger space; the chart table is 31″ inches wide by 23″ deep, with two drawers and a small storage area un­der the table. The instrument panel is large enough for a basic electronic package (VHF, GPS, stereo); the addition of computers, CRT and plotters would require imaginative carpentry.

Wires run below the cabin sole in PVC conduit, and inside the cabin located in the nav station. Spade ter­minals are used, which should avoid failures found in some boards used on other Beneteau models. The company says that wires are unbroken be­tween the board and appliances, reducing the possibility of failures. Repairs will be difficult. And, as electrical accessories are added, the panel will probably need to be expanded.

The L-shaped galley is situated to starboard, aft of the dining area. It is equipped with a gimbaled Eno three­burner stove. A single stainless steel sink is aft of the stove, as is the Frigo­matic refrigerator, which measures 18″ x 13″ x 12″. Enclosed storage areas line the hull. A garbage container is mounted on a door. Counters are covered with Avonite, a white material similar to Formica.

The owner’s stateroom is a spacious, enclosed compartment located to port with 6′ of standing room. The berth is 6′ 7″ x 5″ 11″ and has 5′ of overhead clearance; a hanging locker and shelves on the port hull provide a modicum of storage, as does the aft head, which doubles as a wet locker.

The aft head, situated to port, is equipped with a stainless sink, hot and cold pressure water and a shower nozzle, toilet, and small medicine cabinet, but is rather cramped at 39″ long by 42-1/2″ wide. Showering in the space will be a challenge.

By comparison, the head in the bow is 46″ long, 62″ wide, so has significantly more elbow room since it spans the width of the boat. It has identical features, but with a larger vanity, a three-panel, mirrored medi­cine cabinet and sink, and toilet. Using a head in the bow, in even moderate seas, is an adventure, of course.

The forward stateroom has a small­er 6″ 5″ x 4′ 9″ berth, a settee large enough to seat two adults, a small hanging locker and storage drawers below the berth.

Construction

Some years ago, a spate of blistering problems gave the company a black eye. According to Mike Thoney, a spokesman for Beneteau, the blister­ing problem occurred between 1983- liner to a hinged, 16-circuit panel86 when a defective catalyst was used in hull lay-ups. Eventually, he said, the manufacturer of the catalyst es­tablished a repair fund and every boat produced during that period was re­paired. Thoney told us that there have been no recurrences. Though that may be true, we know that on an industry­wide basis, a certain percentage of boats, even those built without defective catalyst, can be expected to blister for other reasons. The company warrants the hull and deck structure for five years.

Construction is a three- step meth­od that begins with the application of gelcoat, over which is sprayed Bene­teau Watershield System, a polyes­ter, which bonds to the gelcoat and prevents blisters. (Tests of barrier coats, including those conducted by Practical Sailor, have shown viny­lester to be the best protection against blistering.) The hull is uncored, laid­up with chopped glass, woven roving and mat, with unidirectional fabric used at the hull-deck joint. A layer of Trivera is applied on the topsides to prevent print-through, of which we found no evidence.

The second step involves installation of a molded, one-piece fiberglass grid of stringers and floors that runs the length and width of the hull. It is bonded to the hull with a polyester compound, then glassed around the edges with 10″-wide fiberglass tape. The grid incorporates the engine mount, supports for fuel and water tanks, and receivers for bulkheads, which are bonded in place with a polyurethane compound.

The balsa-cored deck is then joint­ed to the hull and bulkheads. The hull-deck joint is an internal hull flange that is bonded with 3M 5200 and fastened with aircraft rivets through the toe rail, deck and flange. Though we have a preference for fasteners with washers and bolts, and bulkheads tabbed directly to the hull and deck, Bowler said that boats in service in charter fleets have recorded thousands of miles with no movement of internal sections or leaks in the hull-deck joint.

Unlike some of the other Beneteau boats we’ve reviewed, the 42s7 has lead ballast, which is preferable to cast iron, the latter not being as dense and requiring epoxy coatings to keep it from rusting.

Performance

We sailed two of the 42s7’s, though in less than ideal conditions for a test.

On the first, we sailed in a winter race in light breezes on flat seas with a relatively new owner and inexperi­enced crew.

With practice, our neophyte skipper executed quick tacks, and the boat accelerated quickly, considering the conditions. The deck layout made crew movement and sail handling uneventful. (A year later, the same skipper and crew won their class in the 125-mile Newport-Ensenada race, in 12-15 knot winds.)

The live-aboard couple completed a three-week cruise shortly after purchasing their boat and reported that except for its light air performance, the boat met their expectations. They feel that a drifter is a must in winds below six knots. Later, they encountered 15 to 20-knot winds and 4′ to 6′ waves while crossing a 40-mile strait, eventually shortening the genoa to keep the rail out of the water. They said that lazy jacks on the fully-bat­tened mainsail are necessary because of its size and weight.

Under power provided by a 50-hp. Yanmar diesel, she motors at 6-7 knots. We found the helm to be very light; one half turn of the wheel produced a 180-degree turn, and she completes 360 degrees in a reasonable circle. The boat also backed in a straight.

Conclusions

The 42s7 is a boat that will flee before a storm, claw off a lee shore, and provide crew comfort above and belowdecks. We like Farr’s Beneteau designs because they present lower profiles and fast hulls.

We prefer more traditional interiors to Starck’s, but that is a personal matter. From an objective standpoint, they are bright and nicely finished. But they may give headaches to owners forced to deal with wiring or other problems in which the structural pan inhibits access.

While Practical Sailor readers report that Beneteau maintains a pretty good customer service department, much of the gear is French and obtaining replacement parts may at some point prove difficult.

Base price of the boat, including sails, is $183,500. A racing version, with a taller mast and assorted gear, sells for $200,000 without sails. For comparison, a Catalina 42 lists for $155,000, a Sabre 402 for $224,900 and a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42CC for $214,600.

Beneteau USA, 8720 Red Oak Blvd., Suite 102, Charlotte, NC 28217; 704/527-8244.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

The Perfect Family Sailboat! Hunter 27-2 – Boat Review

Pettit EZ-Poxy – How to Paint a Boat

The Boat From True Spirit – Sparkman & Stephens

Top 5 Boat Hacks – Boat Maintenance Tips and Tricks

Latest sailboat review.

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

• 2024 BOAT BUYERS GUIDE
• Email Newsletters
• Boat of the Year
• 2024 Freshwater Boat and Gear Buyers Guide
• 2024 Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Water Sports Boat Buyers Guide
• 2024 Pontoon Boat Buyers Guide
• Cruising Boats
• Pontoon Boats
• Fishing Boats
• Personal Watercraft
• Water Sports
• Boat Walkthroughs
• What To Look For
• Watersports Favorites Spring 2022
• Boating Lab
• Boating Safety
• Ultimate Boat Giveaway

Beneteau Boats

By Jeff Hemmel | March 2023

Learn more about Beneteau boats by viewing our extensive collection of boat tests, reviews and other related content. Boating-exclusive content is produced by expert, longtime boating enthusiasts with extensive knowledge of the boating industry. Whether you’re looking to buy, sell or just research the brand, our content is here to help.

Beneteau is one of Europe’s oldest boat builders . Founded in 1884 by Benjamin Beneteau in the French port city of Croix-de-Vie, early fishing-oriented boats were designed with two goals — to be durable enough to handle the North Atlantic waters and fast enough to be first back to shore with the day’s catch. Today, Beneteau is still known for these core traits but has evolved from the builder’s early commercial-fishing roots to become one of Europe’s leading builders of recreational power and sail boats. Powerboat models include the Flyer range of day boats from 21’ – 34’, Antares outboard-powered cruisers from 24’ – 36’, Gran Turismo express cruisers from 32’ -48’, long-distance Swift Trawlers from 37’ – 48’ and the flagship 62’ Grand Trawler .Power options span from gasoline-powered outboards to gasoline and diesel-powered sterndrives, diesel inboards and Volvo Penta’s IPS Inboard Performance System .

On this page:

Quick overview.

• Types of Boats
• Boat Tests & Reviews

Beneteau currently produces a variety of models divided between the day boat, cruiser, express cruiser and trawler categories.

Types of Beneteau Boats

Beneteau manufacturers a variety of both power and sail boat models. The Powerboat line includes Flyer day boats from 21’ – 34’, Antares outboard-powered cruisers from 24’ – 36’, Gran Turismo express cruisers from 32’ -48’, long-distance Swift Trawlers from 37’ – 48’ and the flagship 62’ Grand Trawler .

• Available in both open-bow and enclosed-bow designs from 21’ – 34’, the Flyer range of dayboats is designed with cruising, performance, entertaining and watersports in mind.
• Enclosed-bow SUNdeck models offer sunbathing lounges topside and cabins with berths, toilets or enclosed heads, and galley variations below.
• Open-bow SPACEdecks maximize passenger space with forward bow seating that converts to a roomy sunpad, cockpits that focus on cruising or fishing and, on larger models, open cabins with toilets and modular cockpits to enhance socializing.
• Models include Flyer 7 SPACEdeck , Flyer 7 SUNDeck , Flyer 8 SPACEdeck , Flyer 8 SUNdeck , Flyer 9 SPACEdeck , Flyer 9 SUNdeck and Flyer 10 .
• Six models from 24’ – 36’, the Antares line of cruisers includes the Antares 7 , Antares 8 , Antares 8 Fishing , Antares 9 , Antares 11 and Antares 11 Fly .
• Each is defined by an enclosed pilothouse , inviting cabin, flared hull and outboard engine power.
• Models include traditional weekend cruiser designs as well as flybridge and fishing-focused models .
• Highlights include open-feeling wheelhouses with large salons , below-deck cabin with seating that connects to forward berths, enclosed head compartments with toilet and shower, and galleys with refrigerator sink and stove.
• Sleek express cruisers from 32’-48’, Gran Turismo models include the Gran Turismo 32 , Gran Turismo 36 , Gran Turismo 41 and Gran Turismo 45 .
• Common style elements include a recessed forward deck with sun lounges to soak up the rays, hardtop-covered cockpit with large window to maintain a bright and open feel, and open aft cockpit area that can be used for seating, entertaining or sunbathing.
• Below deck, roomy cabins include a forward berth/dinette, mid-cabin berth, galley and enclosed heads.
• Depending on size, power options extend from twin outboard or twin sterndrive configurations to Volvo Penta’s Inboard Performance System (IPS) .
• Designed with the long-distance traveler in mind, Swift Trawlers — including the Swift Trawler 35 , Swift Trawler 41 Fly , Swift Trawler 41 Sedan and Swift Trawler 48 — are seaworthy vessels that combine safety and stability with comfortable accommodations.
• Styles include traditional , flybridge and sedan models.
• Topside, enclosed wheelhouses pair with main salons that offer aft galleys and abundant passenger seating. The latter often doubles as sleeping space.
• Below deck, as many as three cabins combine with up to two enclosed head compartments and shower to guarantee a comfortable excursion.
• Power is provided by a choice of shaft-line drives from Volvo Penta .
• The ultimate flagship in Beneteau’s trawler family, the Grand Trawler 62 provides passengers luxurious accommodations no matter how long the voyage.
• A large flybridge includes wetbar and table seating. Below, the wheelhouse is matched with large galley, dining area and salon.
• Below deck, the guest cabin in the bow and midship owner suite take full advantage of the boat’s generous beam for hotel-like room. Or, reconfigure the layout to create as many as four cabins and multiple head compartments.

Beneteau Brands

In addition to the Beneteau line, Group Beneteau owns the Jeaneau, Prestige, Delphia, Four Winns, Wellcraft, Scarab, Glastron and Monte Carlo Yachts brands.

Builders of upscale yachts, cruisers , dayboats and fish/dive-friendly center-consoles.

A luxury-minded lineup of multi-hull motor yachts from 48’-65’ and V-hull models from 42’ – 72’.

Four Winns builds a variety of open bow sport boats , including sterndrive and outboard-powered bowriders from 20’ – 30’, hybrid deckboats from 22’ – 26’, and a Surf series from 22’ – 26’ powered by forward-facing sterndrives.

Once known for go-fast speedboats , today Wellcraft produces a line of outboard-powered center consoles from 20’ – 35’.

Scarab produces a line of performance-minded, open-bow sport boats and a single center-console, all powered by Rotax jet-propulsion engines. Models span from 16’ – 25’.

Glastron produces a broad range of bowriders , deck boats, and wake surf-specific models ranging in size from 19’ – 24. Power options include outboard, sterndrive and wake-surf-friendly, forward-facing sterndrives.

Boat Tests & Reviews

As the most trusted source of boating information on the internet, Boating Magazine has produced in-depth reviews of over 10 Beneteau boats . These tests are conducted by an expert staff made up of true boating enthusiasts. Tests and reviews include not only performance testing and passenger amenities, but also dig deep into a boat’s construction, handling, and overall safety .

More Beneteau Boats >>

Group Beneteau Videos

Boating Magazine has produced a variety of reviews of Group Beneteau boats. Video adds another element to any boat review, allowing viewers to see and experience a boat’s features firsthand. Video reviews are hosted by Boating’s same expert editorial staff , enthusiastic boaters themselves who know what to look for in a boat…and how it will improve a viewer’s boating experience.

Beneteau Boat Tests

Boat Test: Jeanneau Leader 10.5 S2

2022 Four Winns H4

2023 Scarab 255 ID

Faqs about beneteau boats.

Find the answers to frequently asked questions about Beneteau boats, including the types of boats Beneteau makes, where they’re produced and how to find a Beneteau boat that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Beneteau builds a diverse list of models, divided between the day boat, cruiser, express cruiser and trawler categories.

Powerboat models include the Flyer range of day boats from 21’ – 34’, Antares outboard-powered cruisers from 24’ – 36’, Gran Turismo express cruisers from 32’ -48’, long-distance Swift Trawlers from 37’ – 48’ and the flagship 62’ Grand Trawler.

Beneteau is headquartered in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France. The company operates multiple factories in the country and in the United States.

Beneteau boats use a variety of engines, including single and twin gasoline outboard configurations, gasoline and diesel sterndrives, diesel inboards and Volvo Penta’s IPS (Inboard Performance System).

Beneteau offers a manufacturer’s warranty covering structural issues for 7 years and parts and labor for 3 years. For more details visit beneteau.com .

Yes, Beneteau boats are easy to maintain. Basic maintenance, including washing and waxing the fiberglass hull , keeping engine compartments clean and dry, and cleaning and using protectant on vinyl surfaces will keep a Beneteau boat looking and performing like new for years to come. Boats left in the water should have hulls cleaned yearly to remove marine growth; anti-fouling paint on submerged areas of the hull should also be applied. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including yearly engine service, to ensure reliable, safe operation. Factory-recommended service should be performed at an authorized Beneteau dealer.

Beneteau’s Flyer line is designed with recreational watersports — including inflatable tubing, waterskiing and wakeboarding — in mind. Beneteau’s Airstep hulls provide quick acceleration and skiing-friendly top speeds. Amenities include aft tow bars that raise the towrope over the boat’s outboard engine, easy access to aft swim platforms and deep-water reboarding ladders.

Beneteau has a vast dealer network spread over five continents. Find your local Beneteau dealer here .

How to Care for a Beneteau

How to properly flush your boat’s motor.

How to run inboard, outboard and sterndrive engines on land.

How to Maintain a Boat’s Trim-and-Tilt System

How to care for your outboard’s trim-and-tilt system.

Marine Transmission Care Tips

Eight tips to help you properly maintain a marine transmission.

Tools for Drying Your Boat

Easily dry your boat promptly after each wash.

How to Wash a Boat the Right Way

These tips will turn your boating chore into a labor of love.

How to Keep Boat Upholstery Looking New

10 ways to keep marine vinyl upholstery looking like new.

Explore Other Brands

Cruisers Yachts

View More >>

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. Boating may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site.

Copyright © 2024 Boating Firecrown . All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.