1996 Beneteau First 42s7
$85,000
Boat in Westbrook, CT 06498 US
First 42s7
1 Engine (Yanmar)
42.5 feet
Diesel
Fiberglass/Reinforced
Perigee has had so many systems upgraded - it's difficult to think of her as being from 1996!
Bruce Farr's First 42s7 is known as a fast boat and why she selected by this owner. His goal was to compete in a Bermuda with his Sons and a few close friends.
In 2016 he had his chance and in preparation for the race, he systematically went through the entire boat and refit ALL of the major systems.
His effort paid off!
Perigee finished 1st in St. David's Lighthouse Division - Class 4
Perigee also finished 1st in the 2016 ORR East Coast Championships
Since 2017, she's been mostly a fast family cruiser with an occasional club race.
Prior to the 2016 Bermuda Race;
- Complete Repower - Yanmar 53 HP- Including - Flex Mounts, Stop Solenoid, Starter, Harness, Control Panel, Water/Fuel Separator, Water Heater Connection, Transmission, and Exhaust.
Note: When thinking about repowering Perigee - the Owner did not want a Common Rail Engine. Instead, he sought out an older non-common rail model - but still a new engine. He found one that was brand new - still in the crate through Mack Boring. Manufactured in 2009 - installed in 2015/16 and currently with 1385 Hours.
- Replaced Keel Bolts, Repacked Rudder and Added a Gori Prop.
- Replaced ALL Plumbing and Water Heater
- Replaced ALL Electrical - Battery Switches, Winch Breaker
- Replaced/Added - AIS, VHF @ Nav Station with Cockpit Remote, Garmin Chart Plotter, Garmin Radar and Pole Mount. Fusion Stereo can be played from the Chart Plotter and can also display a Fuel Gauge.
- Replaced Primaries with 2 Pontos 4 Speed Winches
- Added Deck Fitting and Track with cars for a Staysail. Including a substantial underdeck custom made aluminum bracket for the deck fitting. - See Pictures.
- All New Clutches, Sheets, Halyards and Topping Lift
- Main Outhaul, Main Sheet, Traveler and Double Reefing lines.
- Genoa Car Control Lines
- Added Strong Mast Track and Slide System
Sails
Main + 155%, 110%, Storm Sail, Staysail, Light and Heavy Spinnakers and Code 0 with Snuffer.
2018 Upgrades
- New A/C Unit
- Galvanic Isolator
- New ProFurl Furler
2020 Upgrade
- Newer Smaller Bimini
2025 Upgrades
- Keel Media Blasted. Faired, Barrier Coated and Repainted
Perigee has had a tremendous amount of thought, care and love thrown at her over the years and it shows. The owner's family is very attached to Perigee but, it's getting larger, they're no longer racing, they need more room and are moving up to a larger Beneteau.
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
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 10/21/25 | Initial price | $85,000 |
1996 Beneteau First 42s7 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1996 Beneteau First 42s7
Customers praise the 1996 Beneteau First 42s7 for its excellent balance of performance and comfort
Many highlight its responsive sailing capabilities, noting that it handles well both in light and strong winds, making it a favorite for cruising and racing alike. The spacious and well-designed interior receives positive remarks for providing ample living space and thoughtful accommodations, ideal for extended trips. Users also appreciate the solid build quality and reliable craftsmanship typical of Beneteau, which contributes to the boat's durability and ease of maintenance. Overall, owners value the First 42s7 for offering an enjoyable and versatile sailing experience.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1996 Beneteau First 42s7 is a well-regarded performance cruiser that combines speed, comfort, and style. Here are some of the key pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Performance-Oriented Design: The 42s7 offers excellent sailing characteristics with a sleek hull and efficient sail plan, making it responsive and fast, especially upwind.
Spacious Interior: For a 42-foot boat, it provides a surprisingly roomy and comfortable interior layout, with well-designed cabins and ample headroom.
Quality Build: Constructed by Beneteau, known for solid craftsmanship, the First 42s7 features durable materials and a robust build suitable for offshore cruising.
Balanced Handling: The boat is easy to handle with a well-balanced helm and manageable sail controls, ideal for both short-handed sailing and crewed voyages.
Good Storage: Plenty of storage options below deck help keep the living areas tidy and organized during extended trips.
Cons
Older Design: As a 1996 model, some aspects of the design and onboard systems may feel dated compared to newer yachts, potentially requiring upgrades.
Maintenance Needs: Given its age, ongoing maintenance and occasional refitting might be necessary to keep the boat in top condition.
Limited Modern Amenities: The original fit-out may lack some modern conveniences and electronics that contemporary sailors expect, possibly requiring installation of updated equipment.
Weight Considerations: While performance-oriented, the boat is not ultra-light, which can affect speed in light wind conditions.
Made For
The 1996 Beneteau First 42s7 is perfect for sailors seeking a versatile cruiser-racer that combines performance with comfort. Ideal for those who want a boat capable of competitive racing as well as leisurely coastal cruising, it suits experienced sailors and adventurous couples or small families who appreciate spacious accommodations and responsive handling. Its design appeals to enthusiasts looking for a reliable and stylish yacht that performs well in a variety of conditions.
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Address
Boat Location
Contact Prestige Yacht Sales
48 Calf Pasture Beach Rd, Norwalk, CT, 06855



































































































