First 25 SK (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the First 25 SK lies in Beneteau's pivotal transition from traditional wooden fishing vessels to modern fiberglass yachts, a strategic shift that began in the 1960s. This era saw Beneteau, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, embrace fiberglass construction to democratize sailing, making it more accessible and appealing to a broader leisure market. The First 25 SK, like other models in the "First" series, embodies this philosophy, aiming to strike a balance between performance, comfort, and affordability.

The design of the First 25 SK is credited to the acclaimed naval architect Jean-Marie Finot, of Groupe Finot (also known as Finot-Conq). Finot's design philosophy for this model emphasized both safety for family cruising and a fast, enjoyable steering experience. While the First 25 was available with a fixed keel, the "SK" variant incorporated a swing keel, allowing the boat to reduce its draft significantly from 5.58 ft to 2.62 ft. This innovative feature provides enhanced versatility, enabling access to shallower anchorages and easier trailering, distinguishing it from its fixed-keel counterpart.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 25 SK was conceived as a performance-oriented cruiser, offering a blend of speed and maneuverability. Owners often praise its "sleek sporty line" and a "generous sail plan" that contributes to a satisfying sailing experience. It is described as being a good "first step towards coastal cruising at all speeds," suggesting a responsive and enjoyable boat for various conditions. While some characterizations note it as "slightly under powered," it maintains a reputation for being stable and stiff, ensuring a secure feel on the water. Its masthead sloop rig, with a substantial foretriangle and main sail area, provides ample power for its displacement, allowing it to move efficiently in light to moderate breezes. The swing keel, in particular, offers a unique advantage, providing deep draft for upwind performance when deployed and shallow draft for exploring when retracted.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau First 25 SK is designed to maximize habitability and comfort within its 24.61-foot length overall. While specific headroom figures are not detailed, the design incorporates clever solutions to enhance the sense of space. Notably, the mast prop is integrated into the forward bulkhead, a design choice that contributes to a more open and spacious salon area. This arrangement typically provides a comfortable living space for coastal cruising.

The layout generally includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can often serve as berths, a small galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Descriptions emphasize its "good habitability," suggesting a functional and comfortable arrangement for a boat of its size, suitable for weekend trips or extended coastal voyages. While focusing on practicality, Beneteau's standard finish quality of the era would have likely included well-executed fiberglass moldings with wood trim accents, providing a robust yet inviting interior.