First 24-2 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

Designed by Samuel Manuard, a naval architect known for performance-driven yachts, the First 24-2 aims to complete Beneteau's "Inshore range" by providing a four-berth solution in a highly portable and easily managed package. The interior design was handled by Sito Concept & R&D in collaboration with Seascape.

The First 24-2 entered production in 2021, building upon the well-regarded platform of the Seascape 24 and First 24 SE, which shared the same hull design [6, Notes in. This model embodies Beneteau's contemporary manufacturing ethos, which shifted significantly in the 1960s with the adoption of fiberglass construction. The builder embraced fiberglass to allow for more efficient production and lighter hulls, appealing to a broader leisure market. The First 24-2 benefits from advanced construction techniques like GRP vacuum infusion, resulting in a very light yet robust structure.

The design philosophy behind the First 24-2, originally conceived as the Seascape 24, was to create a boat that is both safe and easy to handle, yet exciting to sail. Key design features include a modern, flat planing hull, a deep keel, and twin rudders. A notable innovation for a boat of this size is its completely retractable keel, which dramatically reduces the minimum draft from 6.56 feet to just 0.82 feet. This feature allows access to shallow cruising spots and simplifies launching and recovery on standard slipways.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 24-2 is celebrated for its spirited sailing performance, earning it the reputation of a "pocket-rocket". The modern, flat planing hull, combined with a deep ballasted keel and twin rudders, ensures a fast and enjoyable experience on the water. While specific ratios are less applicable for a boat of this length, its inherent design provides an "incredible sail area to displacement ratio," contributing to its swiftness.

Owners and reviewers frequently praise the boat's easy handling, making it accessible to a wide range of sailors. Its twin rudders contribute to precise control and a responsive feel. The boat is known to heel, and its mainsheet can be managed effectively with a combination of arms and feet, indicative of its sporty nature. Under favorable conditions, the First 24-2 has demonstrated impressive speeds, reportedly clocking 12 knots in around 20 knots of wind on relatively flat water. It offers a "true sailing sensation" for those seeking a dynamic experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the First 24-2, while designed to be functional for a four-berth solution, is characterized by a "stripped down to its bare essentials" approach, prioritizing performance and light weight over extensive creature comforts. The forward area typically features a V-shaped berth. A notable aspect of the interior is the intrusion of the keel trunk, which leaves a limited open cabin sole area.

Despite its compact nature, the boat is designed with practicality in mind. It includes two hatches for convenience and ventilation. For racing, the interior table can be easily removed and left ashore to reduce weight. The overall finish quality and materials reflect a focus on lightweight, durable components suitable for a performance cruiser, consistent with Beneteau's use of advanced GRP vacuum infusion in its construction.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 24-2 (and its predecessors, the Seascape 24 and First 24 SE) frequently gather on online forums and social media groups to share experiences and knowledge. The consensus among owners often highlights the boat's solid construction, impressive sailing performance, and the sheer joy it brings on the water. Many appreciate its versatility, allowing for both spirited racing and comfortable, if minimalist, cruising. Some owners have discussed practical modifications, such as extending berths with sliding boards for more sleeping space, or the straightforward process of mast removal for transport through waterways like the Erie Canal. The active community surrounding these boats provides a valuable resource for maintenance tips and shared adventures.