The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau First 44.7 2004 at 44,1 ft versus Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 at 44,0 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 44.7 2004 tips the scales at 22 068 lbs — 22 046 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 at 22 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 carries a rated maximum of 60 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 carries 396 gallons versus 53 gallons in the Beneteau First 44.7 2004. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 13 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 has a documented displacement of 22 068 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 draws 6,1 ft, compared to 3,0 ft for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008. That 3,1-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.
The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 has a documented auxiliary engine of 60 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 carries 169 gallons versus 106 gallons on the Beneteau First 44.7 2004 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 44.7 2004 and Beneteau Swift Trawler 42 2008 are closely matched on paper. A sea trial on both in representative conditions is the only reliable way to find which one suits your sailing style, home port, and intended cruising ground.