First 35 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the First 35 in 1980 coincided with a pivotal era for Beneteau, as the builder continued to embrace fiberglass construction, a revolution spearheaded by Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons, André and François. This transition allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels. The First 35 itself was conceived by Jean Berret in 1979, specifically designed as an International Offshore Rule (IOR) 3/4 ton racer. This design brief aimed to deliver a yacht that was not only competitive on the race course but also offered true cruising capability.

Beneteau's manufacturing ethos during this period focused on robust build quality and thoughtful design, ensuring their yachts appealed to a wide range of sailors. The First 35 was built with a fiberglass hull and a solid fiberglass deck. Notably, a shoal draft version, the Idylle 11.50, was also produced using the same hull, offering greater versatility for different cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 35's design, with a length overall of 35.17 feet and a waterline length of 28.83 feet, translates into a lively and responsive sailing experience. Her calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.52 suggests good performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating she can accelerate well and maintain speed even when the wind is not robust.

With a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.462, the First 35 boasts a substantial amount of ballast relative to its displacement, contributing to its stiffness and stability. This allows the boat to stand up to a greater amount of wind, providing a more comfortable and secure ride, especially in challenging conditions. Her Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 195 further classifies her as a lighter, more performance-oriented vessel for her size.

Sailors consistently note the First 35's high speed and "live" control, making her a pleasure for active yachtsmen. Despite her racing pedigree, she is described as particularly easy to handle, offering a reassuring feel for both family sailing and smaller crews. Anecdotal evidence suggests that a well-sailed First 35 can "embarrass larger boats around the cans," highlighting her competitive edge. The design typically features all sail handling lines led aft to the cockpit, enhancing efficiency and safety for the crew.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Beneteau First 35 was designed with performance in mind, it also provided a functional and practical interior suited for cruising. The interior typically features a clean and tidy layout with solid grabrails for safety at sea. While specific headroom figures are not available, Beneteau's general approach emphasizes practical accommodations.

Reviews suggest the First 35 typically offers two guest cabins. The interior arrangement generally includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a central table, a galley, and a head compartment. Consistent with Beneteau's reputation, the finish quality and use of materials are generally geared towards durability and ease of maintenance, with a balance of wood trim and fiberglass surfaces. The thoughtful layout aimed to maximize available space for storage and ensure adequate ventilation, making it a comfortable platform for coastal and short-term offshore cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 35 frequently praise its robust construction and its ability to deliver an exciting sailing experience while remaining manageable for cruising. The boat is often seen as a good cruiser/racer, offering a versatile platform for various sailing activities. Some owners have noted its lively performance, stating it can feel faster and carry more sail area than similarly sized boats.

However, like many fiberglass boats of its era, particularly those with balsa-cored decks above the waterline, some owners of the First 35 and its close variations like the First 35-2 have reported issues such as deck core delamination around stanchions and fittings. This is a common maintenance concern across many older fiberglass boats and often requires re-bedding or repair to address potential water intrusion. General observations about Beneteau sailboats of this period also sometimes include reports of strange creaking sounds or minor fiberglass cracking. Despite these potential maintenance points, the First 35 generally holds a reputation as a solid and enjoyable boat, contributing to a strong sense of community among Beneteau owners worldwide.