Used 40' Beneteau

[Phil M]

Looking for suggestions on which Beneteau models in the 40"+ size range make good boats to cruise on. We really like the look of the 42s7 too. We want to live aboard and use it for extended cruising. Possibly will do some bigger water one day too. Are any of these older "First" series good boats choices? What about their durability, do they require lots of structural repairs to keep them sailing well? Is this market (used) the way to go or is a late model (2-4) years old a better option.Replys welcome and appreciated.

 

[Joe]

7 series primarily racing boats

The 42 7 is an excellent boat for racing, but I would strongly advise against the 7 series as cruising boats. The 7 series generally have a mainsheet system that splits the cockpit. While great for performance sailing, it leaves no real option for addition of a bimini or other acceptable cockpit shade while sailing or at anchor. Again, they are great boats for racing, just not optimum for cruising. Take a look a the "1" or "3" series for crusing.

 

[MerrillM]

Give the 411 a look

I recently purchased a 2000 model year 2 cabin 411 as a planned live aboard. So far I am very pleased with both the performance and the liveability on board. The 2 cabin version has many advantages over the 3 cabin for this purpose: large cockpit locker (ours contains the genset), the galley is large and safe underway,forward cabin/head arrangement, excellent cockpit layout, etc