• Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat docked in a marina under clear blue skies. - 2The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat docked in a marina under clear blue skies. - 2
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat docked at a marina, sunny day, waterfront homes. - 3The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat docked at a marina, sunny day, waterfront homes. - 3
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with ropes and navigation equipment. - 4The Image of Cockpit of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with ropes and navigation equipment. - 4
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat deck with winch and ropes, docked by calm water. - 5The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat deck with winch and ropes, docked by calm water. - 5
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat deck view at marina, showcasing rigging and hatches. - 6The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat deck view at marina, showcasing rigging and hatches. - 6
  • Slide: The Image of Bow of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with open storage compartments. - 7The Image of Bow of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with open storage compartments. - 7
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden furnishings and nautical decor. - 8The Image of Interior of a 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden furnishings and nautical decor. - 8
  • Slide: The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden finish and porthole. - 9The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden finish and porthole. - 9
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat, featuring a wooden kitchen with stove and sink. - 10The Image of Interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat, featuring a wooden kitchen with stove and sink. - 10
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht showing open storage compartments and sink. - 11The Image of Interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht showing open storage compartments and sink. - 11
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht interior with wooden navigation station and seating area. - 12The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht interior with wooden navigation station and seating area. - 12
  • Slide: The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden paneling and skylight. - 13The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1986 Beneteau First 42 sailboat with wooden paneling and skylight. - 13
  • Slide: The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and wooden cabinetry. - 14The Image of 1986 Beneteau First 42 yacht bathroom with sink, toilet, and wooden cabinetry. - 14
1/14

1986 Beneteau First 42

$44,900

Used

Boat in Marion, MA 02738 US

builtBuilt in 1986
Year the boat was built
model

First 42

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Perkins)

Engine type and count
length

42 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

--

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

The Beneteau First 42 is a respected Frers-designed cruiser-racer known for being a comfortable, capable and versatile sailboat, especially the mid-1980's models. Reviewers praise its performance, spacious and practical interior layouts for its size, and value, with the 42 model being particularly successful racing locally in PHRF.

Legacy has been donated to Massachusetts Maritime and is activly sailed by it's cadets. She is available for Charter / lease to own, call and get the details.

Nominal Length
42ft
Length Overall
42ft
Beam
13.08ft
Max Draft
7.25ft
Cabin Headroom
6.33ft
Hull Material
fiberglass
Engine 1
Engine Make
Perkins
Total Power
45hp
Cockpit Table
✓
Swimming Ladder
✓
Electric Bilge Pump
✓
Oven
✓
Manual Bilge Pump
✓
Marine Head
✓
Hot Water
✓
Battery Charger
✓
Depthsounder
✓
Wind Speed And Direction
✓
Repeater
✓
Plotter
✓
Autopilot
✓
Compass
✓
Gps
✓
Vhf
✓
Shore Power Inlet
✓
Steering Wheel
✓
Spinnaker Pole
✓
Battened Mainsail
✓
Spinnaker
✓
Gennaker Cruising Spinnaker
✓
Genoa
✓
Furling Genoa
✓
Additional Information

Updated B&G electronics

NEMA2000 backbone

Tridents located at companion way

Zues3 at the helm

Numerous racing and cruising sails

Both symmetrical and asymmetrical spinnakers (19'-3" J with the sprit) 

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
2/28/26Initial price$44,900

Overview from around the web 1986 Beneteau First 42

Customers praise the 1986 Beneteau First 42 for its excellent blend of performance and comfort

Many highlight its solid build quality and responsive sailing characteristics, making it a favorite for both cruising and club racing. Owners appreciate the spacious interior layout, which offers ample living space for extended voyages. The boat’s classic design and reliable handling continue to earn positive feedback from sailors seeking a versatile and timeless sailing experience.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1986 Beneteau First 42 is a classic cruiser-racer sailboat that offers a blend of performance and comfort. Here are some of the key pros and cons:

Pros

Performance-Oriented Design: The First 42 was designed with a focus on speed and handling, making it suitable for both racing and cruising.

Solid Construction: Built by Beneteau, it features sturdy fiberglass construction and quality craftsmanship typical of the era.

Spacious Interior: For a 42-foot boat, it offers comfortable accommodations with ample headroom, a well-equipped galley, and multiple cabins.

Good Sailing Characteristics: The hull shape and sail plan provide balanced handling and responsiveness in a variety of conditions.

Classic Aesthetic: The design embodies the elegant lines and style of 1980s performance cruisers.

Cons

Aging Systems: Being a boat from 1986, many of the onboard systems such as electrical, plumbing, and rigging may require upgrades or maintenance.

Interior Layout: While spacious, the interior design may feel dated compared to more modern yachts, with less optimized storage and ergonomics.

Maintenance Requirements: Older boats typically demand more upkeep to keep them in top condition, which can add to ownership costs.

Limited Modern Amenities: Features like advanced electronics, modern engines, and contemporary comforts are generally absent unless retrofitted.

Weight: Compared to newer designs, the First 42 may be heavier, potentially affecting light wind performance.

Made For

The 1986 Beneteau First 42 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and performance-oriented cruiser. It suits those who want a comfortable and spacious boat for extended coastal cruising or weekend getaways, while also delivering responsive handling and speed for competitive racing. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a passionate enthusiast looking to enjoy both relaxed cruising and spirited sailing, the First 42 offers a balanced blend of comfort, style, and performance.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1986 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
$509.60/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 44,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1986 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
$509.60/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 44,900
OR
%

Contact South Dartmouth, MA

1 Bridge St., P.O. Box 87082, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from South Dartmouth, MA at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market

Get notified when new boats become available

Meet the Broker

Address

1 Bridge St.
P.O. Box 87082
South Dartmouth, MA 02748

Boat Location

Be the First to Know

Get notified when new boats become available.

Contact South Dartmouth, MA about 1986 Beneteau First 42

1 Bridge St., P.O. Box 87082, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from South Dartmouth, MA at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Contact South Dartmouth, MA

1 Bridge St., P.O. Box 87082, South Dartmouth, MA, 02748

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from South Dartmouth, MA at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

or