First 310 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the First 310 spanned from 1990 to 1995, a period during which Beneteau, under the stewardship of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, was actively embracing fiberglass construction to broaden its appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels. This shift allowed for more efficient production and lighter hulls, paving the way for recreational sailboats that were both accessible and desirable. Groupe Finot, known for their innovative and performance-oriented designs, was instrumental in shaping the First 310. Their design philosophy for this model emphasized safety and stability, alongside a clear deck layout and effective fittings, with the goal of creating a boat that revealed a "fiery temperament in regattas" while remaining suitable for family cruising.

Notably, the First 310 shares its hull design with several other Beneteau models of the era, including the Figaro Solo, First 31.7, Oceanis 300, and Oceanis Clipper 311. During its production run, variations of the First 310 were available. The standard model featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 5.92 feet, while a shoal keel version offered a shallower draft of 4.25 feet with increased ballast. A performance-oriented "First 310R" variant was also offered, characterized by a taller rig and a deeper keel, approximately 5 feet 11 inches, compared to the standard model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 310, with a length overall of 31 feet and a waterline length of 28.67 feet, is recognized for its above-average sailing characteristics, striking a balance between sportiness and comfort. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.1 suggests a vessel capable of good performance, particularly in lighter wind conditions, indicative of a design leaning towards performance cruising.

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of around 0.25 indicates a moderate degree of stability. While a higher ratio generally suggests greater stiffness, the First 310's design, including its fin keel and spade rudder, contributes to a responsive and manageable feel. Some owners have described the boat as "very tender" in certain conditions, suggesting that while performance-oriented, it may require a crew to get her "really going". Despite this, the boat is generally considered easy to sail, even single-handed. Its Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 134 positions it as a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for its size, rather than a heavy, traditional design. The hull's efficient shape allows for a theoretical hull speed of 7.17 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau First 310 is designed to offer practical and comfortable accommodations within its 10.58-foot beam, despite the limited headroom data in the specifications. As a family cruiser, it typically features a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that often convert into berths, and a galley and head. Descriptions often highlight a functional layout aimed at maximizing space and utility. The finish quality is generally considered robust, with materials typical of production boats of its era, often featuring wood trim alongside fiberglass elements. Owners' observations suggest that the design aims for efficient use of space, providing adequate storage for provisions and gear for weekend trips or extended coastal voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Beneteau First 310 for its blend of sporty sailing characteristics and comfortable cruising capabilities. Many appreciate its suitability for both casual family outings and competitive club racing. The ease of handling, even for single-handed sailing, is a commonly cited strength. The vessel's robust construction and thoughtful design are often highlighted, with some owners noting its status as one of the "first of the more modern Beneteau's" in its size range.

However, like any boat of its age, the First 310 may present some common maintenance considerations. General issues such as corrosion, particularly on older vessels, can be encountered. While specific recurring problems for the 310 are not widely documented, owner forums sometimes discuss topics such as the need for sail upgrades to optimize performance for racing. Some anecdotal reports suggest that while the boat is aesthetically pleasing, its performance can be "extremely lacking" if not properly trimmed or if overpowered, indicating it can be sensitive to sail plan and wind conditions. Despite these points, the overall sentiment among owners points to a boat that, with proper care, continues to provide a satisfying sailing experience.