The Beneteau 423 is a well-regarded cruising sailboat designed by Groupe Finot, known for its combination of comfort, performance, and spacious accommodations. Launched in 2002 and produced until around 2007, this model quickly became popular among both seasoned sailors and those new to the world of sailing. With its sleek lines and modern features, the Beneteau 423 offers an excellent platform for long-distance cruising, making it a favorite choice for families and couples alike.
Design and Construction
The Beneteau 423 features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, which contributes to its stability and maneuverability. The boat’s overall length is 42.8 feet (13.03 meters) with a beam of 12.8 feet (3.91 meters), creating a balanced hull that performs well in various wind conditions. Constructed primarily from fiberglass (FG), the 423 offers durability and low maintenance, which are essential for cruising.
Designed by Groupe Finot, the hull shape is optimized for performance while still allowing for spacious interior accommodations. The masthead sloop rigging provides ample sail area, enhancing the boat’s speed and responsiveness under sail. Overall, the construction quality is typical of Beneteau’s high standards, ensuring that the 423 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Performance
With a reported sail area of approximately 860 square feet (79.90 square meters), the Beneteau 423 is designed for effective performance on the water. The boat’s displacement of 19,500 pounds (8,845 kg) and ballast of 5,836 pounds (2,647 kg) provide a solid foundation, contributing to its stability in rough waters.
The hull speed is estimated at 8.32 knots, which is impressive for a vessel of its size. The well-balanced design, combined with the efficient rigging setup, allows for good performance in a range of wind conditions. Sailors can expect the Beneteau 423 to respond well to adjustments, making it enjoyable to sail both upwind and downwind.
Comfort and Accommodations
One of the standout features of the Beneteau 423 is its spacious and comfortable interior. The layout typically includes two to three cabins, depending on the configuration, along with a generous salon and a well-appointed galley. The interior design emphasizes light and ventilation, with large windows and hatches throughout the living space.
The boat provides approximately 154 gallons (583 liters) of freshwater capacity, allowing for extended trips without frequent resupply stops. The cockpit is also designed for comfort, featuring ample seating and easy access to the helm, making it ideal for entertaining guests or relaxing after a day of sailing.
Safety and Practicality
Safety is a key consideration in the design of the Beneteau 423. The boat features a reliable auxiliary power system, typically equipped with a Volvo diesel engine, which ensures that you can navigate back to port even in calm winds. Additionally, the design includes thoughtful safety features such as wide side decks, secure handholds, and non-slip surfaces, which are crucial for safe movement around the boat while underway.
The practical layout of the Beneteau 423 also facilitates ease of sailing. The well-placed controls in the cockpit mean that a small crew can effectively manage the sails and perform necessary maneuvers without difficulty.
Conclusion
In summary, the Beneteau 423 is a versatile cruising sailboat that successfully blends performance, comfort, and safety. Its design caters to the needs of sailors looking for a reliable vessel for both coastal cruising and longer voyages. With a robust construction, spacious accommodations, and excellent sailing characteristics, the Beneteau 423 stands out as a strong contender in the cruising sailboat market. Whether you are an experienced sailor or a newcomer to the world of sailing, the Beneteau 423 offers a compelling package for those looking to explore the open waters.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/bulb & spade rudder |
| Rigging Type | Masthead Sloop |
| LOA | 43.14 ft / 13.15 m |
| LWL | 38.55 ft / 11.75 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 860.00 ft² / 79.90 m² |
| Beam | 12.93 ft / 3.94 m |
| Displacement | 19,500.00 lb / 8,845 kg |
| Ballast | 5,836.00 lb / 2,647 kg |
| Max Draft | 5.58 ft / 1.70 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 2002 |
| Builder | Beneteau |
| Designer | Groupe Finot |
Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) | |
|---|---|
| Make | Volvo |
| Type | Diesel |
| HP | 80 |
| Fuel | 53 gals / 201 L |
Accommodations | |
| Water | 154 gals / 583 L |
Sailboat Calculations | |
| S.A. / Displ. | 19.07 |
| Bal. / Displ. | 29.93 |
| Disp. / Len. | 151.95 |
| Comfort Ratio | 24.97 |
| Capsize Screening Formula | 1.93 |
| Hull Speed | 8.32 kn |
| Pounds/Inch Immersion | 1,781.02 pounds/inch |
Sailboat Links | |
| Designers | Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot) |
| Builders | Beneteau |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau 423 CC 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.