Description

This is a privately created ad for Grand Soleil 42, build year 1996. Explore the captivating universe of Grand Soleil aft cockpit sailboats and performance cruisers, designed with Italian style and celebrated for their remarkable speed and comfort. Since 1973, under Cantiere del Pardo, Grand Soleil yachts have combined Mediterranean elegance with innovative design, available in sizes ranging from 33 to 85 feet. Located in Forli, Italy, their modern facility has crafted over 3,900 yachts, with numerous models earning prestigious awards worldwide. Whether you're interested in mass-produced or custom-made yachts, Grand Soleil offers both fiberglass and carbon composite options. Experience the charm of these exceptional vessels through exclusive test drives and the annual Grand Soleil Cup regatta. For further info, as description, boat equipment list or photos for Sailingboat Grand Soleil 42 - please contact the seller via Send email. Please notice, the seller can have more detailed description of the Grand Soleil 42 in German, Swedish, Danish or Dutch. These languages are chosen to the right of the Insert advert button.

The Grand Soleil 42, designed by German Frers and built by Cantiere del Pardo, is widely regarded as one of the finest performance cruisers of her era. Often referred to as the “Italian Swan,” she combines elegant, timeless lines with excellent sailing performance and high-quality craftsmanship. Named “Bikkel”, this yacht stands out as a well-prepared and extensively upgraded vessel, offering not only style and sailing performance, but also the systems and reliability required for serious offshore cruising. Built in 1996, she features a beautiful teak deck and a striking deep blue hull that highlights her classic Italian heritage. Performance & Offshore Capability What truly sets this yacht apart is her balance between performance and seaworthiness. The sleek hull and responsive sail plan deliver fast and rewarding sailing, while remaining stable and predictable offshore. A heavier keel configuration enhances stability and safety at sea, making her particularly well suited for passagemaking. She has been extensively upgraded and successfully prepared for offshore sailing, including long-distance cruising conditions. Thanks to major investments in navigation, energy systems and onboard autonomy, she is a genuinely turn-key, ocean-ready yacht. Deck & Cockpit From the moment you step onboard, the quality and thoughtful design are immediately apparent. Everything on deck is built for real sailing — solid, functional and well laid out. The teak deck is in good condition, while the cockpit shows normal signs of use, with a few minor repairs to be addressed. Overall, it contributes to both safety and aesthetics. The spacious cockpit offers excellent ergonomics, with all controls within easy reach of the helm. A beautifully crafted folding teak cockpit table combines functionality and elegance, making the space equally enjoyable at anchor. Interior Below deck, the yacht offers a warm and inviting saloon with a practical L-shaped galley and a dedicated navigation area. The interior combines classic maritime character with a light and comfortable atmosphere. Aft, the generous full-beam owner’s cabin provides exceptional comfort, featuring a freestanding double bed and seating areas on both sides — ideal for extended stays on board. This cabin is served by a head with dual access from both the cabin and the saloon, fitted with an electric toilet and shower. Forward, there is a spacious double cabin, served by a second head located forward, also fitted with an electric toilet and shower. The green Alcantara upholstery remains in good condition, and the quality of the interior woodwork is evident throughout — solid, elegant and timeless. History The yacht has had only three private owners since 1996. Originally based in Germany, she was later owned by Danish owners who maintained her carefully and used her primarily for holiday sailing. In 2025, the current Dutch owners purchased her in Denmark, sailed her to the Netherlands and extensively upgraded her for offshore cruising, leaving her fully prepared and proven for transatlantic sailing. Condition & Recent Refits The yacht is structurally sound and presents well. Some minor cosmetic improvements could be considered, which has been reflected in the price. Importantly, she has recently undergone significant upgrades and refitting, transforming her into a highly capable and modern offshore cruising yacht. Recent Major Upgrades (2025) Complete Raymarine navigation system incl. Axiom+ plotter AIS transceiver + VHF Ray53 Raymarine Quantum 2 Doppler radar Raymarine autopilot system Raymarine instruments (2x i70 displays) Raymarine Raystar 150 GPS Echomax radar reflector Complete Victron electrical system: inverter/charger, lithium battery bank (300Ah), solar panels, MPPT controllers, Cerbo GX + monitoring 3300W inverter generator Shore power system Aluminium arch with solar panels and dinghy davits Schenker Zen 30 watermaker Engine service – Volvo Penta MD2040 New bigger alternator New standing rigging All seacocks replaced New sprayhood and bimini New dinghy with Suzuki outboard Liferaft (6 pers.) EPIRB Washing Machine Equipment Highlights Engine & Systems Volvo Penta MD2040 (42 HP) 142L Fuel tank (Diesel) Saildrive with folding propeller Bow thruster (requires service) Navigation Full Raymarine suite (2025) Radar, AIS, GPS/plotter Wind, depth & speed VHF Ray53 Radar reflector Rig & Sails Mainsail – fair condition Headsail – fair condition Gennaker – good condition Roller furling 4x Lewmar & 2x Harken winches Comfort & Living Diesel heating Hot & cold pressurised water Fresh water tanks (2x 150L) Large fridge Gas stove with oven Two heads with electric toilets and showers Washing machine Deck Equipment Electric windlass Anchor with chain Cockpit tent & bimini Bathing platform with swim ladder Electrical Victron energy system (2025) Shore power Inverter / charger Location Currently located around St. Maarten (Caribbean) until May 2026. After May, she will be sailing towards Europe. If not sold before the voyage to the Netherlands in October, alternative delivery locations can be arranged upon request. Handover can also be arranged from October 2026 onwards. Documents Official documents are available and will be transferred to the buyer: registration certificate (Zeebrief), nationality declaration, measurement certificate, European VAT proof, and KvK registration as an object. Final Note Bikkel is a carefully prepared and well-equipped cruising home, ready for new adventures. Whether you are planning Caribbean cruising, liveaboard life or offshore passages, she offers a rare combination of performance, style and true long-distance capability. Contact us for full inventory, additional photos and video walkthrough. Serious enquiries only.