At the same time, the new design continues the styling of the larger Oceanis 47 and 52 models (YACHT test issue 3/2026). Marc Lombard Yacht Design is once again responsible for the hull design, whilst Nauta Design has designed the deck and interior.
The same length, but slightly wider
With a hull length of 11.99 metres, the Oceanis 42 remains just under twelve metres despite its generous name. Compared with its predecessor, however, the boat is now five centimetres wider. It measures an impressive 4.23 metres in width, which extends from the centre of the boat right through to the stern. This not only provides plenty of space below deck, but also benefits the cockpit in particular. According to the shipyard, the cockpit’s floor area has increased by twelve per cent compared with its predecessor, whilst the seating areas are said to be ten per cent larger.
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Beneteau offers two different solutions for the rear of the cockpit. In the open version, when the bathing platform is folded down, the outdoor area flows almost seamlessly into the access to the water. Alternatively, the stern can be enclosed with a continuous bench seat. This variant provides additional seating right next to the two helm stations, making it particularly appealing for families and longer cruises. The helm stations are also modelled on those of the larger sister ships. The seats and backrests are permanently integrated, whilst the consoles house instruments, controls and the throttle lever. This is designed to allow the essential functions to be operated from the respective helm position.
Taller rig, more sail area
Compared with its predecessor, the Oceanis 40.1, the rig is also significantly taller across all variants. The standard furling mast is 60 centimetres taller, whilst the classic and performance versions are each 30 centimetres taller. The self-tacking jib comes as standard ex-factory. Alternatively, the Oceanis 42 can also be fitted with a short-overlapping genoa with halyard points on deck.
The range of interior layouts is particularly versatile. Beneteau is planning a total of five layout variants: from the owner’s version with two cabins and one wet room to the charter version with four cabins and two bathrooms. In between, there are several three-cabin versions to choose from, featuring one, two or even three wet rooms. There are also two layout options for the galley: an L-shaped kitchen by the companionway or a version built lengthways into the saloon with a particularly large worktop. The possible interior layouts can be viewed above in the extensive photo gallery.
Larger hull and superstructure windows, as well as more and larger hatches, are designed to bring additional natural light into the saloon and the cabins. According to the shipyard, the total window area in the saloon and the cabins is two and a half times larger than that of the previous model.
Beneteau has also already announced an initial price: the new Oceanis 42 is set to cost 248,500 euros net, including the sails. Adding 19 per cent VAT brings the gross price to 295,715 euros. The world premiere of the new model is set to take place in November this year at the Paris Nautic Show.
Technical Specifications: Oceanis 42
- Designer: Marc Lombard Yacht Design
- Exterior/Interior Design: Nauta Design
- CE design category: A10 / B10 / C12
- Hull length: 11.99 m
- Overall length including bowsprit: 12.86 m
- Length at the waterline: 11.42 m
- Width: 4.23 m
- Weight: 7.98 t
- Standard draught (deep keel): 2.25 m
- Ballast/ballast ratio, standard deep keel: 2.05 t / 25.7 %
- Draught (short keel): 1.68 m
- Ballast/ballast ratio (short keel): 2.23 t / 28%
- Mast height above waterline (retractable mast): 18.36 m
- Mast height above waterline (Classic mast): 18.72 m
- Furling mainsail: 37.7 m²
- Standard mainsail (Classic Mast): 45.1 m²
- Self-tacking jib: 28.7 m²
- Genoa (106%): 35.6 m²
- Code Zero: 58.3 m³
- Engine: Inboard diesel 45 PS / Saildrive
- Fuel capacity: 195 litres
- Fresh water capacity: 235 litres
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology