First 305 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau First 305 began production in 1985, arriving during a transformative era for the Beneteau shipyard. Beneteau, which had pioneered the widespread adoption of fiberglass construction in the 1960s, was by this time a leader in mass-produced recreational yachts, known for efficient manufacturing and robust build quality. The First series, to which the 305 belongs, was specifically developed to bridge the gap between pure racing machines and comfortable cruising yachts, benefitting from design insights drawn from racing experience.

Jean Berret, the acclaimed designer behind the First 305, envisioned it as a versatile sailboat, adept at both competitive racing and leisurely cruising. This design ethos is evident in the boat's lines and internal layout. During its production run, the First 305 was offered with several keel and rig variations, including a shoal draft option of 4.33 feet (1.32m) and alternative short rig configurations, providing flexibility for different sailing grounds and preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 305 is characterized by its lively sailing performance and responsive handling, attributes frequently praised by those who sail her. With a displacement of 8,242 lbs and a waterline length of 26.75 feet, the sailboat exhibits a Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 192.4. This figure places it on the lighter, more performance-oriented side for a yacht of its size, suggesting good acceleration and agility.

Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) stands at around 15.5, indicating a moderate sail plan that offers capable performance in a range of conditions, though it may require a bit more effort in very light air compared to boats designed purely for racing. The Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) is approximately 0.36, contributing to its stability. While this suggests it may not be as stiff as some heavier-ballasted yachts, owners generally find it to be a well-mannered boat capable of standing up to a decent breeze. The calculated hull speed for the First 305 is 6.93 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Beneteau First 305 was designed with performance in mind, it does not neglect comfort and practicality below deck. The interior, also designed by Jean Berret, offers a well-designed space with comfortable cabins. Typically configured with two cabins, the layout is designed to accommodate up to six persons, making it suitable for families or small groups.

The deck layout is noted for being "intentionally clear but complete" and "well-appointed," featuring an ergonomic cockpit that facilitates efficient sail handling and comfortable lounging. Despite its classification as a cruiser-racer, which can sometimes imply a more spartan interior, the First 305 strives to provide a comfortable environment, though some owners have commented that it leans more towards performance than a dedicated cruising yacht in terms of interior volume and amenities.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 305 generally laud its enjoyable sailing characteristics and robust construction. Many consider it a "nice sailing boat" that is "reasonably well built" for its era. The solid construction of the boat is a frequent point of discussion among owners. While praised for its performance, some owners note that it functions more as a performance cruiser than a dedicated long-distance cruiser, suggesting its interior might be more focused on efficiency than extensive liveaboard comfort. Specific recurring issues are not widely reported across multiple sources, though isolated discussions mention managing cabin heat and problems with original windlasses on some older models.