First 18 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the First 18 coincided with a pivotal era for Beneteau, as the company, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, fully embraced fiberglass construction. This transition, beginning in the 1960s, allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels, shaping Beneteau's commitment to well-built, accessible recreational sailboats. The First 18, introduced in 1978, was a direct result of this manufacturing ethos.

Designed by Groupe Finot, the First 18 was specifically crafted to the demanding Micro Class rule, aiming to offer a dinghy-like sailing experience on a more stable platform. This design philosophy emphasized performance and ease of handling, even for single-handed sailing, making it an agile and responsive boat for its size. Over its production run, 1065 units of the First 18 were built, reflecting its popularity among sailors looking for an affordable and versatile small yacht.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact dimensions, the Beneteau First 18 is celebrated for its engaging sailing performance. Designed as a racer-cruiser within the Micro Class, it delivers a lively, dinghy-like feel on the water, while benefiting from the increased stability of its deep-ballasted wing keel and relatively wide, flat hull shape. This combination allows the First 18 to be both nimble and forgiving, making for "sheer sailing pleasure." It is noted for being easy to handle, with features like a furling jib and minimized deck controls contributing to its accessibility for a wide range of sailors. Its design allows it to stand up to wind well for its size, offering confident performance in various conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau First 18 is best described as minimalist, focusing on providing essential shelter rather than extensive cruising comforts. Given its designation as a Micro Class racer-cruiser and day sailer, the interior layout typically features a basic open-plan arrangement. While specific details on maximum headroom are not provided in the boat's specifications, its small size suggests limited standing room. The design prioritizes sailing efficiency and space for equipment over lavish accommodations. Owners generally find enough space for overnight stays, with simple V-berths forward and perhaps two settee berths in the main cabin. Storage is likely limited to beneath berths, and ventilation would primarily rely on a forward hatch and companionway. The finish quality would reflect Beneteau's standard for series production boats of that era, emphasizing robust and functional fiberglass construction with minimal wood trim.