Beneteau First 40.7

[viktor.baraga]

Dear all,

I have a Beneteau First 40.7 , racing version( longer keel and higher mast)
The year of production is 2001 , but since 2006 it has not been used, stored in dry dock.
I'm planing to join the ARC , Atlantic relly from Canary Islands to Caribien and then continue accross the Panama canall to Pacific, where I want to spent a year or so cruising. The question is , is this boat suitable for something like this. I'd install a windwane autopilot, generator and watermaker plus other gear necessary for blue water cruising. Most of the time I'm planning to do it solo.
Any advise is most wellcome.

Regards

Viktor

 

[Ducati]

Love those boats!

Keel depth of 7'9" would be my main concern. Ducking in to a safe (shallow) harbor during bad weather could be a problem.

 

[viktor.baraga]

Thanks .
So appart from deep keel, you think it should be ok, to do Bluewater cruising?
V.

 

[sailingandsuch]

Viktor,

I think it would be, as long as you don't try to sail in really heavy weather you should be fine. Watching your weather windows, a Bene 24 would be capable of such a cruise.

So, watch the weather, be patient and don't set yourself to a time limit or you may find yourself trying to make a passage in unfavorable weather.