1987 Beneteau First 405

Beneteau First 405 (1987) – Med-Ready Bluewater Cruiser-Racer, Never Chartered 1987 Beneteau First 405 Spirit III is a proven cruiser-racer, carefully prepared for Mediterranean and bluewater sailing. British-owned and never chartered, she offers an appealing balance of performance, strength, and long-range comfort. Her deep fin keel and powerful triple-spreader rig deliver fast, confident sailing with easy short-handed control. A Beta 50hp diesel installed in 2013, with under 1,500 hours, drives through a Gori folding prop for efficient motoring and reduced drag. The keel was removed, epoxy treated, and re-bolted in 2002, with a structural survey completed in 2025. The deck layout is practical and secure. Teak decks were replaced in 2012 and professionally refinished in 2025, presenting well and offering excellent grip. Standing rigging was renewed in 2011, and the sail inventory includes quality Sanders sails, a cruising chute, and twin spinnakers for versatile passagemaking. Below, the interior is bright and welcoming, with accommodation for eight to nine in three double cabins plus the saloon. Upholstery was renewed in 2017, with new foam fitted in 2021, and there is approximately 1.9 metres of headroom. The layout supports comfortable living aboard for extended periods. A major electrical upgrade underpins true cruising autonomy. Victron inverter and charging systems, E-xpert monitoring, and substantial solar capacity, including a 340W panel, support modern energy demands. Three 100Ah lithium house batteries are scheduled for installation in April 2026, completing a capable off-grid setup. Comfort systems include Eberspacher heating, pressurised hot water via calorifier and immersion, a Katadyn watermaker, and an efficient seawater-cooled fridge and freezer. LED lighting, fans, and a well-considered entertainment and IT installation further enhance life aboard. Navigation and safety equipment are comprehensive. A Raymarine navigation suite from 2013 is supported by AIS, autopilot, Iridium satellite communications, and extensive safety gear, making her well prepared for serious offshore passages. A brand-new 2.4-metre tender from 2025, with Honda 2hp outboard, is included. Cruised from the UK through Biscay into the Mediterranean, she is currently lying in Greece and ready to continue her adventures. EU VAT is paid. Offered exclusively by Williams & Smithells International, specialists in liveaboard and bluewater cruising yachts, this Beneteau First 405 represents an excellent opportunity for sailors seeking performance with genuine passagemaking capability. Construction Built by Beneteau Yachts, France 1987 Designed by Jean Berret Aft cockpit cruiser/racer White GRP hull (balsacore) deck & structure Teak decks (replaced 2012, refinished 2025) Deep fin keel (cast iron) Spade hung rudder Wheel steering Keel removed in 2002 to have full epoxy treatment, new keel bolts fitted (by previous owner). Last structural survey 2025 Beta 50 -