2009 Beneteau First 40

This 2009 Beneteau First 40 is a Bruce Farr design built to balance racing performance under IRC with comfortable cruising capability. She features a deep T-keel at 8 feet and a tall fractional rig with three-spreader tapered mast, delivering strong upwind performance and light-air power. The moderate-displacement hull has a fine entry, broad stern sections, and a balanced spade rudder for responsive handling. Her sail plan exceeds 1,050 square feet with symmetric spinnakers over 1,300 square feet, making her competitive offshore and around the course.

The deck layout includes an open racing cockpit, efficient traveler and mainsheet systems, and Harken winches—arranged to work for a full racing crew but manageable for two-handed sailing on shorter passages. Below deck, a Nauta Design interior provides three cabins: two double cabins aft and a forward owner's cabin with ensuite head and shower. Additional accommodations include an L-shaped galley, navigation station, and convertible saloon berths that sleep eight total.

Power comes from a single Yammer 40 hp diesel with shaft drive, sufficient for reliable motoring in confined waters or against heavy current. Systems are straightforward and designed for both racing durability and long-distance reliability. This deep-draft, tall-rig configuration is the most sought-after version of the First 40, delivering stiff, high-pointing upwind performance, quick tack acceleration, and strong reaching and downwind capability. She functions equally well as a regatta competitor or a comfortable cruising yacht.