1985 Beneteau First 42

$59,900

Used

Boat in Annapolis, MD 21403 US

builtBuilt in 1985
Year the boat was built
model

First 42

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Volvo Penta)

Engine type and count
length

42 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material
Nominal Length
42ft
Length Overall
42.92ft
Length at Waterline
36ft
Beam
13.08ft
Max Bridge Clearance
64ft
Max Draft
7.33ft
Displacement
18738lb
Dry Weight
18738lb
Ballast
8818lb
Cruising Speed
7kn
Max Speed
8kn
Range
521nmi
Cabins
2
Heads
2
Seating Capacity
8
Fresh Water Tanks
50gal
Fuel Tanks
40gal
Holding Tanks
15gal
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
monohull
Engine 1
Engine Make
Volvo Penta
Engine Model
D2-55
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Drive Type
direct
Interior Description
Two cabin, two head version with pullman style v-berth stateroom with enclosed head forward. Large main saloon custom dinette with sea berths to port and settee with sea berth to stbd. Aft stateroom to port with aft head to stbd, Custom U-shaped galley to port just aft to dinette. She is spacious enough to make a great live-aboard or extended fast cruiser. Her rich teak woodwork gives you a warm nautical feel. Definitely built at a time when fine crafted interior woodwork was must. Her upholstery was redone and is in good condition. The main cabin headliner was professionally replaced.
Forward Master Cabin
  • Large Pullman berth
  • Storage
  • Hanging locker
  • Head w/ Porta Potty, Corian counter top, SS sink (2016)
  • Deck hatch replaced with Lewmar (2006)
  • AC/Heat
Main Salon
  • AC/Heat 16000 btu (2013)
  • Custom dinette and storage wall unit with built in folding table with extension leaf, open storage, and closed storage. (2013)
  • Teak and Holly floor boards - reengineered to manageable sizes, edge banded and epoxy sealed - Excellent condition.
  • Upholstery redone (2006)
  • Main cabin ceiling redone (2018)
  • Deck hatch replaced with Lewmar (2006)
  • Lee Cloths for all four saloon bunks
  • Cabin side windows replaced, show no signs of past or present leaking (2014)
  • All interior light LED, 9 dual red/white
  • USB ports installed throughout

Galley
  • Entire galley module redesigned and rebuilt in (2013)
  • Better storage
  • Corian countertops
  • Deep double bowl SS sink
  • Sea Frost freezer box (2013)
  • Dorm style fridge & freezer under nav station (Original furniture face available)
  • Force 10 Propane 2 burner stove with oven & broiler
  • Electric solenoid for propane stove
  • Sea water foot pump

Nav Station
  • True working nav station with large work surface and proper fiddle. This is the larger nav station design.
  • Completely redone electrical and communications panels (2015)
  • Excellent open and enclosed storage

Aft Cabin - Port

  • Good sized double bunk
  • Storage
  • Multiple ventilation ports

Aft Head
  • Manual marine toilet
  • SS Sink
  • Storage
  • Multiple ventilation ports
  • Macerator pump for holding tank

Disclaimer
The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Price History

DateEventPrice
1/20/26Initial price$59,900

Overview from around the web 1985 Beneteau First 42

Customers appreciate the 1985 Beneteau First 42 for its excellent balance of performance and comfort

Many highlight its solid construction and responsive handling, making it a favorite among sailors who enjoy both cruising and racing. The spacious interior layout is often praised for providing ample living space and practical accommodations for extended trips. Owners also note the boat's timeless design and reliable build quality, which continue to make it a sought-after classic in the sailing community. Overall, the 1985 Beneteau First 42 is regarded as a well-rounded vessel that delivers an enjoyable and dependable sailing experience.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1985 Beneteau First 42 is a classic cruiser-racer that offers a blend of performance and comfort, making it a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:

Pros

Performance-Oriented Design: The First 42 was designed with racing in mind, featuring a sleek hull and efficient sail plan that deliver good speed and handling.

Solid Construction: Built by Beneteau, known for quality craftsmanship, the 1985 First 42 has a sturdy fiberglass hull and reliable build quality.

Spacious Interior: For a 42-foot boat, it offers comfortable accommodations with a practical layout including multiple cabins, a functional galley, and ample storage.

Versatility: Suitable for both competitive racing and cruising, making it a flexible option for sailors who want a dual-purpose vessel.

Good Value: As a well-regarded older model, it often presents a more affordable entry point to a high-performance cruiser-racer.

Cons

Older Systems: Being a 1985 model, some onboard systems like electrical, plumbing, and engine components may require updates or maintenance.

Maintenance Requirements: Like many boats of this age, it may need regular upkeep to keep it in good condition, including potential deck and rigging inspections.

Interior Finishes: The interior design and materials reflect the era and may feel dated compared to modern yachts, potentially requiring refurbishment.

Limited Modern Amenities: Lacks some of the modern conveniences and technologies found on newer boats, such as advanced navigation electronics or updated comfort features.

Made For

The 1985 Beneteau First 42 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and performance-oriented cruiser. It suits individuals or couples who want a comfortable and spacious yacht for coastal cruising, weekend getaways, or longer offshore passages. With its blend of speed, stability, and well-designed living space, it appeals to both experienced sailors and those looking to step up to a larger, capable sailboat for adventure and relaxation on the water.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1985 Beneteau First 42. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$679.85/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 59,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1985 Beneteau First 42. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$679.85/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 59,900
OR
%

Contact Yacht Brokers of Annapolis

8 Anne Court, Severna Park, MD, 21146

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Severna Park, MD 21146

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