First 22 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The First 22 began its production run in 1978 and continued until 1983, with 763 units built during this period. Its design lineage traces back to Groupe Finot's successful "Clémentine" mini-tonner, establishing its roots in performance sailing. Beneteau, having embraced fiberglass construction in the 1960s, applied its manufacturing ethos of efficient production and robust build quality to the First 22. The collaboration with external naval architects like Groupe Finot was central to Beneteau's strategy, ensuring contemporary designs that balanced performance, comfort, and affordability.

The First 22 was offered with significant variations in its keel configuration, notably a centerboard (swing keel) version and a fixed keel option. The lifting keel system on the First 22 was an innovation developed jointly by Finot and Beneteau. Furthermore, specific iterations, such as the ASA First 22, were designed with an emphasis on a larger cockpit to accommodate multiple students and an instructor, leading to a comparatively smaller cabin space.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 22 is celebrated for its lively sailing performance and responsive handling. It is consistently described as a high-performance sailing yacht, offering a "light, responsive" feel at the helm. Owners and reviewers often note its capability to be "very seaworthy in a breeze" and "stiff under sail," which contributes to a confident sailing experience.

For versions equipped with a swing keel and twin rudders, such as the ASA First 22, the boat benefits from shallow draft capabilities, expanding its cruising grounds while maintaining excellent control. The design also features an generously sized cockpit, which facilitates easy sheet handling, enhancing its appeal as both a recreational and training vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its length overall of just under 23 feet, the Beneteau First 22 offers basic yet functional accommodations, typical of a performance-oriented small cruiser or daysailer. While specific interior headroom figures vary by version and are not widely detailed, the emphasis in some variants, particularly the ASA First 22, was on maximizing cockpit space, resulting in a more compact cabin.

The interior layout would typically feature a V-berth forward, which might serve as the primary sleeping area. A small salon area, possibly with settees that could convert to additional berths, would comprise the main cabin space. Given its size, amenities such as a galley or a dedicated head compartment would be minimal, likely consisting of a simple sink and a portable toilet or a very basic fixed marine head. Storage would be limited but practical for weekend cruising or daysailing provisions. The finish quality, consistent with Beneteau's general approach of the era, would likely involve a combination of fiberglass liners with some wood trim, prioritizing durability and functionality over luxurious appointments.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 22 generally express satisfaction with the boat, often highlighting its responsive nature and enjoyable sailing characteristics within its size class. Forum discussions and owner communities exist, indicating a loyal following for this model. A common sentiment among owners is appreciation for its "light, responsive" handling, though some acknowledge its limitations as a smaller, lighter displacement boat not specifically designed for heavy weather offshore passages. As with many older fiberglass vessels, potential maintenance considerations across Beneteau models of this vintage can include general corrosion on older fittings if not properly maintained.