Boat test for the 2007 Jeanneau Prestige 42 with boat pictures, boat specifications, and boat test results. Includes pricing, videos, engine test reviews, and ratings for the 2007 Jeanneau Prestige 42.

But while the 42 is efficient and roomy, she has some areas that could use fine-tuning. The flying bridge’s helm seats are so low, my knees could barely stretch under the console (I’m only 5'7”). If you are six feet or taller, you may be faced with eating-knee syndrome. Yet sightlines from here (bridge clearance is 15'2”) are good forward and to the sides; visibility aft is inhibited by the flying-bridge overhang, which offers lounge seating. In addition, while the Twin Disc single-lever electronic controls operated flawlessly, the hydraulic steering had air in the lines, which resulted in slow wheel response. It’s an easy fix.

The lazarette, which houses the standard 9-kw Onan genset, offered reasonable workspace, but I could barely squeeze myself into the engine compartment, which has a 15-inch catwalk between the powerplants, 3'5” headroom, and no outboard engine access. I think even regular maintenance checks would be best done by removing the saloon dinette table and lifting the hatches beneath it.

One aspect of the Jeanneau 42 I found appealing was the one-page options list. The standard price includes everything from those Cummins powerplants to the Onan genset to the bow thruster. While some owners may like an options list the size of a diner menu, this builder believes that its all-inclusive approach makes the buying process easier.

Jeffery Salter

The Jeanneau Prestige 42 has been available in the overseas market for a few years, but it’s the first U.S. powerboat launch for this noted sailboat builder.

The company’s strategy is as straightforward as the boats it’s building. While I think the some of the 42’s features could stand changes, such as using snaps for securing the cockpit cushions instead of straps that hang, less plastic hardware and more stainless steel, a transom door that drops a little lower to prevent water from washing up and over the swim platform, and improved engine-room space planning, she is a value. With a price as tested of less than $480K, my boat was fully loaded. Well, almost. The triple-cream brie is optional.

For more information on Jeanneau America, including contact information, click here.

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