New Beneteau Oceanis 42: A New Generation of Cruising Sailboat
Greater flexibility, an enhanced cockpit and a modernised interior – the successor to the popular Oceanis 40.1 brings a new level of comfort and functionality to the cruising yacht segment.
Beneteau introduces the new Oceanis 42, the successor to the successful Oceanis 40.1, bringing a series of improvements to one of the most competitive segments of the cruising sailboat market.
Developed in collaboration with Marc Lombard Yacht Design and Nauta Design, the new model retains the philosophy that defines the Oceanis range: easy handling, comfort during extended cruises and generous living space for families and friends.
Rather than focusing on a significant increase in size, the Oceanis 42 concentrates on making better use of available space, offering more flexible interior layouts and introducing practical details that improve everyday life on board. It also incorporates design ideas from the latest generation of larger models, including the Oceanis 47 and Oceanis 52.
What’s New Compared with the Oceanis 40.1?
The Oceanis 40.1 established a strong reputation for its balance of sailing performance, spaciousness and ease of handling. Its successor builds on these strengths with several important developments:
- Five interior layouts, ranging from two cabins to a four-cabin charter configuration.
- Two galley layouts – an L-shaped galley or a linear galley.
- An enhanced cockpit and aft platform, adaptable to different onboard activities.
- Improved helm ergonomics, with integrated seating, backrests and more clearly organised controls.
- Taller masts and increased sail area, depending on the selected configuration.
- A modernised interior, featuring more natural light, updated finishes and practical storage solutions.
1. A Redesigned Cockpit and Aft Platform
One of the most noticeable changes can be found at the stern. The new aft platform adapts to different ways of using the boat: when open, it extends the living area and provides easier access to the water; when closed, the aft seating creates an additional seating area.
The cockpit has been designed as the central outdoor living space, with a clearer distinction between the helm stations and the relaxation area. The helm positions feature integrated seats and backrests, ergonomically designed consoles and more conveniently arranged controls.
These improvements make handling and manoeuvring more comfortable while enhancing the experience during longer passages. They also bring the Oceanis 42 closer to the design philosophy of the latest, larger models in the range.
2. Five Interior Layouts for Different Needs
One of the Oceanis 42’s key innovations is the choice of five interior configurations. Owners can tailor the boat to family cruising, extended stays on board or charter operations.
- 2 cabins / 1 bathroom – greater privacy and comfort for owners.
- 3 cabins / 1 bathroom – a practical solution for families.
- 3 cabins / 2 bathrooms – increased convenience for larger crews.
- 3 cabins / 3 bathrooms – enhanced privacy on extended cruises.
- 4 cabins / 2 bathrooms – a layout designed for charter use.
The saloon has been designed to maximise natural light and functionality. Large hull windows connect the interior with the sea, while the sand oak finish creates a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Different upholstery styles are also available, allowing owners to personalise the interior.
Practical details include a dedicated desk, additional storage areas and a more organised arrangement of the boat’s electrical controls. These refinements become particularly valuable during longer stays on board.
3. Two Galley Concepts
The Oceanis 42 offers a choice between an L-shaped galley and a linear galley. This allows owners to select the arrangement that best suits their habits and preferred way of using the boat.
The L-Shaped Galley
The corner layout provides an efficient arrangement of work surfaces and storage, with convenient access to the saloon and cockpit. This configuration features two large sinks, two large storage compartments and a total refrigeration capacity of 215 litres – a significant advantage for extended cruising and provisioning for a larger crew.
The Linear Galley
The alternative linear arrangement offers a different approach to workspace and interior organisation. Both options give owners the opportunity to tailor the boat to their priorities from the outset.
[INSERT PHOTO 10 – GALLEY: Linear kitchen arrangement, if a separate image is available]
4. Refined Sailing Performance
Developed in collaboration with Marc Lombard Yacht Design, the Oceanis 42 focuses on balanced sailing characteristics and straightforward handling.
Compared with the Oceanis 40.1, the mast with in-mast furling is 60 cm taller, while the conventional and performance masts are 30 cm taller. Depending on the selected configuration, the increased mast height allows for a larger sail area and greater potential to make the most of favourable sailing conditions.
The objective remains unchanged: to deliver an enjoyable sailing experience without unnecessary complexity, whether the boat is handled by an experienced sailor or an owner primarily interested in relaxed family cruising.
5. Oceanis 42 vs. Oceanis 40.1: Technical Comparison
The technical specifications show that the Oceanis 42 is not significantly larger than its predecessor. Overall length is almost identical, and the lightship displacement remains unchanged. The main developments concern space planning, the cockpit, helm ergonomics and configuration options.
| Specification | Oceanis 42 | Oceanis 40.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Overall length | 12.86 m | 12.87 m |
| Beam | 4.23 m | 4.18 m |
| Lightship displacement | 7,985 kg | 7,985 kg |
| Draft – shoal-draft keel | 1.68 m | 1.68 m |
| Draft – deep-draft keel | 2.25 m | 2.17 m |
| Air draft | 18.72 m | 18.33 m |
| Fuel capacity | 195 l | 195 l |
| Water capacity | 235 l | 235 l standard |
| Maximum engine power | 45 hp | 45 hp |
| Interior configurations | 5 | Multiple layouts |
Note: Specifications may vary depending on the selected configuration and equipment. The latest official technical data for both models should be checked before publication.
The comparison highlights the Oceanis 42’s approach to development: rather than relying on increased dimensions, it focuses on more efficient use of space, greater interior flexibility and improved ergonomics. These are meaningful changes for owners looking for a modern boat for everyday use and extended cruising.
6. Digital Connectivity with Seanapps
The Oceanis 42 supports integration with Seanapps, allowing owners to monitor selected boat information through a mobile phone. Depending on the installed equipment, this can include battery status, fuel and water levels, and maintenance information.
This connectivity makes boat care and preparation for the next trip easier, particularly for owners who use their yacht seasonally.
[INSERT PHOTO 12 – SEANAPPS: Mobile app interface or official digital connectivity image]
7. The New Oceanis 42 Is Joining Ultra Sailing’s Charter Fleet in Split!
Special news for sailing enthusiasts visiting Croatia: in 2026, the new Beneteau Oceanis 42 is joining Ultra Sailing’s charter fleet, based in Split.
This will give guests the opportunity to experience the new model on the Adriatic, exploring the Dalmatian islands and coastline aboard a yacht from Beneteau’s latest generation. Its adaptable interior, enhanced cockpit and easy handling make the Oceanis 42 an appealing choice for family holidays and week-long sailing adventures.
For anyone considering purchasing a yacht, chartering the model can also be a valuable way to experience its layout, functionality and sailing characteristics in real-world conditions before making a decision.
Conclusion: A Thoughtful Step Forward
The Beneteau Oceanis 42 introduces a series of improvements focused on the real experience of sailing and living on board. A redesigned cockpit, adaptable aft platform, more ergonomic helm positions, five interior layouts and a choice of two galley arrangements make it a more versatile successor to the Oceanis 40.1.
While retaining almost the same overall dimensions, the new generation places greater emphasis on comfort, functionality and the ability to tailor the yacht to individual needs. Whether for private cruising or charter use, the Oceanis 42 is a model worth discovering.
Interested in the new Beneteau Oceanis 42?
Contact Ultra Sailing, the authorised Beneteau representative in Croatia, for information about available configurations, equipment options and the new model. The basic price is 248.500 EUR VAT Excl.
Ultra Sailing – Beneteau in Croatia since 1999.