First 21.7 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The First 21.7 began production in 2004, building upon the legacy of the highly successful First 21 series. This lineage includes models like the First 210, First 210 Spirit, and First 211, all sharing the same fundamental hull design, which itself was born in 1992 as the First 210. Beneteau, with its rich history dating back to 1884, transitioned into fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a move that revolutionized its production and allowed for a broader appeal beyond traditional fishing fleets. The First series, including the 21.7, exemplifies Beneteau's design philosophy of balancing performance, comfort, and affordability through collaboration with acclaimed naval architects.

The core design goal for the First 21.7, crafted by Groupe Finot, was to create a small, high-performance cruiser that was both safe and family-oriented. Beneteau incorporated buoyancy foam sections throughout the hull of the 21.7, making it unsinkable and enhancing its safety profile. Its lifting keel design, with a minimum draft of 2.3 feet and a maximum of 5.91 feet, provides versatility for exploring shallow anchorages while offering improved upwind performance when deployed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 21.7 is celebrated for its lively sailing performance and responsive handling. Sailors often describe it as feeling like a large, fast dinghy, praising its exemplary cockpit and control layout. Its dynamic design and clean lines contribute to a spirited experience on the water, offering a blend of performance and simplicity that appeals to a wide range of sailors. The boat is reported to be easily single-handed and capable of handling challenging conditions, with owners noting its stability even in winds up to 25 knots. This makes the First 21.7 a versatile vessel suitable for both spirited club racing and relaxed day cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau First 21.7 offers a cleverly designed interior that maximizes its limited volume to provide functional accommodations. The layout typically features four berths, including a double V-berth forward and two single berths. It includes a compact galley area, often equipped with a single-burner cooker, providing basic facilities for meal preparation. Reviews consistently highlight the interior as a "smart space" with comfortable cabins, making it suitable for overnight stays or weekend cruising for a couple or small family. While specific details on finish quality and materials require closer inspection, Beneteau's reputation generally points to a practical and durable construction typical of production boats of its era, focusing on efficient use of fiberglass and wood trim where appropriate.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 21.7 frequently laud its solid construction and its ability to provide an enjoyable sailing experience. Many appreciate its ease of handling, even for single-handed sailing, and its robust performance in various wind conditions. The trailerable nature of the boat is a significant advantage for many, allowing for easy transport to different sailing grounds. The collective sentiment points to the First 21.7 as an intelligently designed small cruiser that captures the essence of sailing for pleasure. While no widespread, recurring mechanical or structural issues are commonly reported for the 21.7 specifically, general discussions among Beneteau owners sometimes touch upon broader topics like keel maintenance, which is not unique to this model. Overall, the First 21.7 is well-regarded for its reliability and the sheer fun it offers on the water.