First 285 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau First 285 was in production from 1985 to 1993, with 451 units built, making it a significant model in its class. Its creation aligns with Beneteau's pivotal transition in the 1960s to fiberglass construction, which allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels. During this era, Beneteau, under the guidance of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons, embraced the design freedoms offered by fiberglass, leading to recreational sailboats that were both accessible and appealing. The First 285's design by Jean-Marie Finot, known for performance-oriented designs, reflects Beneteau's consistent collaboration with leading naval architects to produce yachts that offer satisfying sailing performance while maintaining comfortable interiors.

While the standard model featured a fin keel, the First 285 was also offered with variations, including a shoal draft version with a draft of 3.75 feet and a winged keel version at 3.8 feet. There was also a notable version with a lifting keel and twin rudders, further enhancing its versatility for different cruising grounds. Early models of the 285 were built in France before Beneteau expanded its manufacturing capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 28.16 feet and a waterline length of 24.25 feet, the Beneteau First 285 offers a balanced and enjoyable sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.3 suggests a boat that performs moderately well in light air but truly comes alive in medium to stronger breezes, making it a capable performer for coastal cruising and club racing. The Displacement to Length ratio of around 193 classifies it as a relatively light and performance-oriented boat for its size, contributing to its lively feel on the water.

The First 285 features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a configuration known for providing good control and responsiveness. Owners frequently describe the First 285 as a "great little boat" that "sails very well" and is "moderately fast for her size." While generally praised for its sailing characteristics, some owners note that the winged keel version may "slide sideways" when sailing upwind, indicating it might not be as efficient as the fin keel option in certain conditions. Its hull speed is estimated at 6.6 knots, a respectable pace for a boat of its dimensions.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just over 28 feet, the Beneteau First 285 is recognized for offering a "quite comfortable cruising interior" with approximately 6 feet of headroom, a significant feature for a boat of this length. The interior layout is designed to maximize living space, typically featuring two private cabins, which is a notable advantage for a boat of its size, making it "super for couples and weekend cruising" and "doable for 4" people.

Typical interior arrangements for the First 285 include a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees and a table, and a galley. While specific details on finish quality and materials often vary with individual boats and owner customizations, Beneteau's designs of this era generally utilized a blend of wood trim and fiberglass liners, aiming for a balance of aesthetics and practicality. Storage solutions are integrated throughout, though owners sometimes describe the interiors of French boats from this period as being "a quart in a pint pot," implying efficient, albeit compact, use of space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 285 generally praise its solid sailing performance and suitability as a coastal cruiser or weekend racer. They often highlight its lively feel on the water and comfortable motion in a seaway. The boat's design, including the option for a shoal draft or winged keel, often appeals to those navigating shallower waters.

However, common issues noted by owners include the iron keel's susceptibility to rust if the seal is compromised, necessitating regular inspection and maintenance. Some owners have also observed that the original materials used in the boat's construction may not withstand prolonged exposure to tropical sun as effectively over time. Additionally, the design of the bilge area is sometimes mentioned, with observations that these boats do not have a dedicated deep bilge, meaning keel bolts and ribs are often visible directly beneath the teak floorboards. Despite these potential maintenance considerations, the First 285 remains a cherished model for many, appreciated for its robust build quality and enjoyable sailing characteristics.