1996 Grand Soleil 42 (Frers), 140 000 EUR

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.