Photo credit: © BENETEAU.
New and notable boats on our docks
Beneteau tends to offer more affordable, entry-level prices, and luxury than your average sailboat. Now Beneteau is debuting the First 30, a modern take on the fabled 1977 First 30. The First 30 really heels and reportedly planes at only 8 knots. With spacious quarters below, it’s well suited for a weekend among the San Juan Islands.
Built in Slovenia in collaboration with Seascape, the hull design is kindred to a race yacht. The transom is absent, except for two rectangular sections on each side that offer a bit more guardrail, storage, and seating than the true racer. Dual rudders supply great maneuverability under sail. A foam core with a fiberglass hull, plywood bulkheads, and poly deck cork make for a super light boat.
Sailing her looks easy and fun. In 15 knots of wind, expect 11-12 knots of speed downwind. The boom can be mounted or rigged on a traveler. The North Sails mainsail and furling genoa have similar sail areas for even power. The boat can be rigged with an asymmetrical spinnaker for downwind delight. The bow is spare and the genoa sheets are rigged inboard for easy cockpit sailing.
The interior is modern with lots of head room. View Garmin charts and enjoy a pared down electrical panel. The First 30 sleeps and seats six. She has wood details, fabric lockers with magnetic doors, and lots of hull-adjacent storage. Access the Yanmar diesel engine easily under the companionway. A simple galley and head have everything you need to settle in after a day of sporty sailing on your fast home. The First 30 is an affordable way to experience the freedom of speed and the comfort of cruising.
Specs:
- LOA: 33’11”
- Beam: 9’10”
- Draft: 6’6”
- Displacement: 3 tons
- Fuel: 9 gallons
- Water: 22 gallons
- Berths: 6
- Power: 14 HP Yanmar Diesel or 15 KW E-drive
- Base Price: $171,440
Broker Details:
Signature Yachts – Seattle
Phone: (206) 284-9004
Website: https://signature-yachts.com/
