First 20 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau First 20 first entered production in 2011, continuing the legacy of Beneteau's "First" series, which has been a cornerstone of their performance cruiser offerings for decades. The design by Finot-Conq, a firm known for their innovative and performance-oriented naval architecture, aimed to imbue the First 20 with a modern and sporty aesthetic while prioritizing stability and habitability. Beneteau, a company that pioneered fiberglass construction in the 1960s, leveraged its efficient production methods and robust build quality to create the First 20. The boat features a harmonious and high-performing hull, designed for stability, and incorporates an unstayed mast, which allows for a generous sail plan. This model did away with traditional bulkheads, aiming for a more open and comfortable interior. It is also noted for its twin rudders and a mainsail with a rectangular top, features often found on racing boats. The Beneteau First 20 shares its hull, swing keel, twin rudders, and rig with the earlier First 21.0, indicating a consistent design philosophy for this popular small cruiser-racer. Production for the First 20 ran at least until 2014, although specific end years can vary by source.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 20 is recognized for its dynamic sailing performance and agile handling. With a calculated hull speed of approximately 5.94 knots, the boat is designed to be quick and responsive. Its fractional sloop rig, combined with a total sail area of around 215 square feet, provides ample power for spirited sailing. A distinctive feature is its twin rudders, which contribute to precise steering and control, particularly when heeled. The boat also boasts a centerboard keel, allowing for a variable draft between 2.3 feet (minimum) and 5.91 feet (maximum), which is advantageous for exploring shallow anchorages while still offering good performance upwind. The unstayed mast design further contributes to its modern performance characteristics. Owners often praise its fun and high-performing nature, noting its ability to handle well in various conditions and its stability. It is seen as a "pocket cruiser or daysailer that jumps over traditional performance design features right to modern, fun-and-fast features".

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau First 20 is designed to maximize living space within its compact footprint, focusing on habitability and comfort for its size. The design eliminated traditional bulkheads to create a more open and airy feel, complemented by light wood finishes. While it does not include a dedicated bathroom, provisions are typically made for a portable bio-toilet. The cabin is arranged to sleep up to four people, making it suitable for short coastal cruises with family or a small group. The emphasis is on efficiency and practicality, providing essential comforts for its role as a pocket cruiser or daysailer. Storage solutions are integrated to make the most of the available space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 20 consistently commend its solid qualities and ease of use, making it an affordable and enjoyable boat. Its modest size is often seen as an advantage, offering characteristics more akin to racing boats, such as its performance-oriented sail plan and twin rudders. The First 20 is frequently recommended for those seeking a boat for short coastal cruises. While general discussions on Beneteau forums sometimes touch upon common issues like corrosion on older vessels, specific widespread problems directly attributed to the First 20 are not prominently reported, suggesting a generally reliable build for its era. However, one anecdotal point suggests that the movement of the centerboard in a seaway might be a discomforting issue for some owners. Overall, the consensus leans towards a boat that offers good sailing performance and practical accommodations for its size, appealing to both new and experienced sailors.