First 24 SE (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the First 24 SE begins with the Slovenian builder Seascape, whose successful 24-foot model formed the foundation for this Beneteau iteration. Production of the Seascape 24 started in 2016. In 2018, Beneteau acquired a controlling stake in Seascape, integrating all Seascape models into its revered First range. Consequently, the Seascape 24 was rebranded as the Beneteau First 24, and the "SE" (Seascape Edition) designation highlights its heritage and specific enhancements, 15]. The Beneteau First 24 SE officially began production in 2017.

The design philosophy behind the First 24 SE, stemming from its Seascape roots, aimed to create a "pocket-rocket" with a strong racing background, capable of exhilarating performance. It was also intended to complete Seascape's "Inshore range" by offering a four-berth solution, balancing speed with practical, if basic, liveability. A significant variation between the original First 24 and the First 24 SE is the latter's lighter construction, incorporating a carbon mast, boom, and bowsprit, alongside increased sail area, contributing to its enhanced performance. This aligns with Beneteau's broader evolution, as the company, originating from Benjamin Bénéteau's fishing boat yard in 1884, embraced fiberglass in the 1960s to create lighter, more efficient hulls for the burgeoning leisure market. Beneteau's consistent collaboration with naval architects like Sam Manuard reflects their commitment to contemporary designs that balance performance with user-friendly features.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 24 SE is engineered for an engaging sailing experience, described as a "true sailing sensation". Its modern hull shape, combined with a very light displacement of 2,028 lbs and a deep wing keel with a maximum draft of 6.56 feet, allows it to perform exceptionally well. The lightweight construction, particularly with its carbon mast and increased sail area, ensures that the boat maintains momentum even in light winds.

Designed to be a versatile sport cruiser, the First 24 SE can "let it rip" on the race course but also "glide along in a relaxed manner" for casual outings. Its design facilitates easy trailability, making it suitable for competitive international one-design regattas or adventurous coastal races. Anecdotal observations suggest its upwind performance is comparable to that of a J24. The boat's emphasis is on high-performance sailing, yet it is also noted for being easy to handle, making it a viable option for solo or double-handed sailing. It excels in inshore and coastal conditions, reflecting its design brief as an agile and responsive day sailer and club racer.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its focus on performance, the Beneteau First 24 SE offers a surprisingly functional interior layout for a boat of its size. The design is intentionally minimalistic and weight-sensitive, yet it still manages to include key amenities expected on a small cruiser. While headroom specifications are not typically highlighted due to its compact nature, the interior is configured to provide a four-berth solution, making it suitable for short touring trips.

The layout typically features a forward V-berth, and while the keel trunk does intrude somewhat into the cabin sole, limiting open space, the overall arrangement is designed for utility. Owners can expect a basic but practical arrangement with sleeping berths and some storage, adhering to the "stripped down to its bare essentials" philosophy of the Seascape design. The design prioritizes sailing efficiency, leading to an interior that is functional for quick getaways and overnights rather than extended liveaboard cruising.