First 260 Spirit (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The First 260 Spirit began its production run in 1994, emerging from Beneteau's long tradition of boatbuilding that dates back to 1884. This model marked an evolution in Beneteau's fiberglass revolution, which began in the 1960s, allowing for efficient production and broader appeal. Groupe Finot, under Jean-Marie Finot, a designer renowned for his successful singlehanded ocean racing yachts, was tasked with creating the First series, particularly the smaller models. Their design philosophy for the First 260 Spirit centered on balancing elegance, performance, and functional comfort, ingeniously maximizing interior volume to create a sense of intimacy within its compact footprint.

In 2004, the Beneteau First 260 Spirit was renamed the First 25.7, continuing in production with largely unchanged specifications, solidifying its legacy within the Beneteau lineup. The design itself was forward-thinking for its era, featuring a distinctive chisel bow, twin rudders for enhanced control, and wide, relatively shallow sections aft, contributing to its modern appeal and performance characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its compact size, the Beneteau First 260 Spirit is known for its engaging sailing performance. Owners and reviewers consistently describe it as a "quick little boat," particularly responsive in lighter winds. It offers a sporty sailing experience, providing excellent sensations both upwind and downwind due to its efficient rig and hull shape. The boat is praised for being fast, responsive, and well-balanced, making for an enjoyable helm experience.

A notable design feature contributing to its handling is the twin rudder configuration. This setup provides excellent control and well-mannered handling, especially when sailing downwind or in challenging conditions. While generally considered a spirited performer, some reviews suggest that for family coastal cruising, particularly in stronger winds (gusting up to 30 knots), the boat's performance-oriented nature can make it "a bit of a handful," indicating its preference for an engaged sailor. Many First 260 Spirits were also built with a lifting keel, offering versatile draft options for exploring shallower waters.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the First 260 Spirit, while designed to maximize space within its overall length of just over 24 feet, focuses on functional comfort and intimacy. While the maximum headroom is not specified in direct data, the design emphasizes a clear deck layout and useful interior fittings, prioritizing safety and practicality below deck.

Typical interior arrangements for the First 260 Spirit include a saloon area, a forward cabin, and a dedicated heads compartment. Reviewers note that the design "plays the space card to the advantage of intimacy," suggesting clever use of the available volume to create comfortable living areas. Online walkthroughs and reviews often highlight a practical layout suitable for weekend trips or short cruises, with a focus on essential amenities. The general finish quality, consistent with Beneteau's ethos, typically features durable materials with practical design choices, balancing aesthetics with the realities of production boatbuilding.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 260 Spirit generally praise its lively sailing performance and responsiveness, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a more active sailing experience. The boat's ability to combine comfortable cruising with genuinely spirited performance is frequently highlighted.

However, some recurring themes emerge from owner discussions. A common issue reported by owners of both the First 260 Spirit and its successor, the First 25.7, is "rudder vibration," often discussed in various sailing forums. Additionally, for the lifting keel versions, some owners have noted specific considerations or issues related to the keel bolt. Despite these potential maintenance points, the overall sentiment remains positive, with many appreciating the boat's solid build and enjoyable characteristics for its size.