Beneteau First 47.7 Review

Introduction to Beneteau First 47.7 layout

The Beneteau First 47.7 is a high-performance sailing yacht that masterfully combines the racing pedigree of designer Bruce Farr with the comfort needed for extended cruising. Launched in 1999, it quickly earned its reputation both in offshore races and as a reliable cruising yacht.

Recently, we had the opportunity to deliver a First 47.7 from Opua, New Zealand, to Fiji—a passage of around 1,100 nautical miles.

This journey allowed us to thoroughly assess the yacht’s performance across varied conditions, from calm winds to challenging seas. In this review, we explore the yacht’s key features and capabilities.

Cockpit and Deck Layout for Beneteau First 47.7

The cockpit of the First 47.7 is designed to cater to both performance sailing and cruising comfort. Twin helm wheels provide excellent control and visibility, while a spacious cockpit table with folding leaves offers a convenient space for dining and socializing. The deck layout, optimized for racing, allows all lines to be led aft to the cockpit for ease of handling. Wide side decks and well-positioned handrails ensure safe movement around the boat, even in rough conditions.

Interior and Accommodation of Beneteau First 47.7

The First 47.7 features a bright and spacious interior, a pleasant surprise for a performance-oriented yacht. The saloon is airy and well-lit, with large hull windows and overhead hatches. The galley is practical and well-equipped with ample counter space and storage. The standard layout includes three cabins, with an option for a fourth cabin aft. The forward owner’s cabin is particularly comfortable, offering a private head and shower. The guest cabins are well-appointed, with practical storage. The interior finish balances style with durability, ensuring comfort for extended cruising.

Mechanical for Beneteau First 47.7

The First 47.7 is typically powered by a Yanmar 75hp diesel engine, offering both reliability and performance. A sail drive ensures quiet and smooth operation, making the boat efficient under power.

With substantial fuel and water capacity, the First 47.7 is well-suited for long-range cruising. Other optional features include a bow thruster for enhanced maneuverability, a generator for onboard power, and a comprehensive electronics package for navigation and communication.

• Engine Model: Yanmar 4JH3TE 75hp (standard)
• Tankage: Fuel – 250 liters, Water – 700 liters
• Other: Sail drive, optional bow thruster, generator, electronics packages

Construction for Beneteau First 47.7

The First 47.7 is constructed using high-quality production methods in Beneteau’s advanced facilities in France.

The hull features a solid fiberglass layup with a balsa core to provide additional stiffness and insulation, while the fiberglass deck is reinforced with a core material for added strength.

Beneteau’s attention to efficient production and stringent quality control results in a durable and well-built yacht that is both seaworthy and aesthetically appealing.

Yacht Delivery Solutions Verdict

The Beneteau First 47.7 excels in both performance and comfort. Throughout our delivery voyage from Opua to Fiji, the yacht demonstrated impressive speed, responsiveness, and seaworthiness across various sailing conditions, including light winds and strong trade winds.

Its comfortable accommodations, functional galley, and spacious living areas ensured a pleasant experience during long passages.

We highly recommend the Beneteau First 47.7 for sailors who seek a yacht capable of delivering both thrilling performance and cruising comfort.

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Yacht Delivery Solutions is your reliable partner for yacht deliveries across New Zealand, the South Pacific, and Australia. Whether you’re relocating your yacht, need an experienced crew for a challenging passage, or require yacht management and maintenance, our team of seasoned professionals can deliver tailored solutions to meet your needs.

Our delivery services cover:

• New Zealand: Opua, Auckland, Tauranga, Wellington, Nelson, Bay of Islands, Marsden Cove
• South Pacific: Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, Samoa
• Australia: Brisbane, Sydney, Gold Coast, Melbourne, Airlie Beach