The Beneteau 49 is a well-regarded model in the sailing world, known for combining performance, comfort, and practicality in a package that suits both experienced sailors and those looking for a luxurious cruising experience. Designed by Berret-Racoupeau and introduced in 2007, this 49-foot yacht is part of Beneteau’s Oceanis series, aiming to provide a perfect balance between elegance and functionality.
Design and Construction
The Beneteau 49 features a modern hull with a fin keel and bulb, paired with a spade rudder for responsive steering and control. Its fractional sloop rig offers flexibility in sail management and good upwind performance. The boat is built using fiberglass (FG), which provides durability while maintaining a lighter weight for better performance at sea. The large beam of 14.75 feet contributes to the vessel’s stability and spaciousness. Berret-Racoupeau’s sleek design includes well-proportioned lines and a low-profile deck, maximizing interior space without sacrificing the boat’s clean, elegant look.
Performance
With a sail area of 1,024 square feet and a displacement of 28,517 pounds, the Beneteau 49 offers solid sailing performance. Its moderate displacement-to-length ratio (152.86) and a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 17.62 allow for easy handling and decent speed under various wind conditions. Powered by a 76 HP Yanmar diesel engine, the yacht also performs well under motor power when needed. With a hull speed of 8.86 knots, it is capable of maintaining respectable cruising speeds, even on long passages.
Comfort and Accommodations
The interior of the Beneteau 49 reflects a strong focus on comfort and luxury, making it ideal for long-distance cruising or living aboard. The spacious saloon and cabins benefit from the boat’s wide beam, creating an open, airy feel. Multiple cabin configurations are available, typically with two or three cabins and en-suite heads. The large water tank (150 gallons) and generous fuel capacity (62 gallons) support extended cruising. Additionally, the yacht is designed with plenty of storage, allowing for a comfortable living space even on longer voyages. Headroom is ample throughout, ensuring comfort for taller crew members.
Safety and Practicality
Safety is a priority in the design of the Beneteau 49. The yacht has a high comfort ratio (26.94) and a capsize screening formula of 1.94, making it stable and safe for offshore sailing. The deck layout is organized for ease of handling, with all lines leading to the cockpit, which allows for secure sail management even in rough conditions. The solid construction, reliable Yanmar engine, and modern navigational equipment enhance the boat’s safety and reliability at sea. Practical design elements, like wide side decks and secure handholds, ensure safe movement around the vessel while underway.
Conclusion
The Beneteau 49 stands out as a well-rounded cruiser that combines performance, comfort, and safety. Its modern design and construction techniques, coupled with a luxurious and spacious interior, make it an attractive choice for sailors seeking both style and substance. Whether you’re planning to cruise the coastline or embark on longer bluewater voyages, the Beneteau 49 offers the versatility, reliability, and comfort required for an enjoyable and secure sailing experience.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/bulb & spade rudder |
| Rigging Type | Fractional Sloop |
| LOA | 49.50 ft / 15.09 m |
| LWL | 43.67 ft / 13.31 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 1,024.00 ft² / 95.13 m² |
| Beam | 14.75 ft / 4.50 m |
| Displacement | 28,517.00 lb / 12,935 kg |
| Ballast | 9,480.00 lb / 4,300 kg |
| Max Draft | 5.75 ft / 1.75 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 2007 |
| Builder | Beneteau |
| Designer | Berret-Racoupeau |
Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) | |
| Auxiliary Power | Yanmar Diesel, 76 HP |
| Fuel Capacity | 62 gals / 235 L |
Accomodations | |
| Water Capacity | 150 gals / 568 L |
Sailboat Calculations | |
| S.A. / Displ. | 17.62 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 33.24 |
| Disp. / Len. | 152.86 |
| Comfort Ratio | 26.94 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 1.94 |
| S# | 3.42 |
| Hull Speed | 8.86 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 2,301.56 pounds/inch |
Rig and Sail Particulars | |
| I | 59.75 ft / 18.21 m |
| J | 18.42 ft / 5.61 m |
| P | 51.67 ft / 15.75 m |
| E | 18.33 ft / 5.59 m |
| S.A. Fore | 550.30 ft² / 51.12 m² |
| S.A. Main | 473.56 ft² / 44.00 m² |
| Total Sail Area | 1,023.86 ft² / 95.12 m² |
| Est. Forestay Length | 62.52 ft / 19.06 m |
| Mast Height from DWL | 63.75 ft / 19.43 m |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau 49 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.