First 35.7 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Beneteau First 35.7 followed the successful lineage of the First 35S5, with Beneteau partnering again with Jean Berret for the naval architecture and bringing in Philippe Starck for the interior design. Production for the First 35.7 commenced in 1993. While the exact end year of its production run is not specified in the initial data, it was a comparatively short-lived model in the mid-1990s, suggesting a focused period of manufacturing.

Jean Berret's design philosophy for the First series, including the 35.7, aimed to thrill keen regatta racers and demanding performance sailors, emphasizing the pure joy of sailing. The 35.7 was specifically developed to offer improved performance and a more enhanced lifestyle onboard compared to its predecessor, the 35S5. During this era, Beneteau, founded in 1884, was undergoing significant expansion, leveraging fiberglass construction for efficient production and broader market appeal, moving beyond its traditional fishing boat roots to become a global leader in recreational yachting. The company’s ethos during this time, and consistently throughout its history, has been to balance performance, comfort, and affordability through thoughtful design and collaboration with renowned naval architects. The First 35.7 was available with different keel configurations, including a shallow draft wing keel at 5.0 feet, a standard iron torpedo keel at 6.06 feet, and a deeper lead keel at 9.40 feet, offering versatility for various sailing preferences and cruising grounds. This model is also known as the 35S7 and, with a different deck, evolved into the First 36S7, indicating its place within a series of performance-oriented designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 35.7's design translates into a capable and engaging sailing performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.28, the vessel is indicative of good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, suggesting it can be easily driven and accelerate well. Its Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of around 173.88 places it firmly in the performance cruiser category, indicating a relatively light and nimble boat for its size, designed to offer a more exhilarating sailing experience than heavier, more traditional cruisers.

The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D) of 0.32 suggests a design that prioritizes performance and agility, though it may imply a need for earlier reefing in strong winds compared to vessels with higher ballast ratios. Despite this, the First 35.7 is celebrated for its exceptional speed and sailing prowess, attributed to its sleek hull design, deep keel options, and a responsive fractional sail plan that is well-engineered for both competitive racing and comfortable cruising. Reviewers have noted its "good performer" status and "user-friendliness," suggesting that even non-expert sailors can achieve good speed and enjoyment from the boat.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior details can vary, the Beneteau First 35.7’s interior was notably designed by Philippe Starck, aiming for a balance of practicality and style. Generally, the accommodations are described as well-built and practical. The interior finish in many models featured a "very dark and heavy feeling mahogany," which might offer a classic, robust aesthetic.

Based on typical layouts for vessels of this size and purpose, the First 35.7 likely features a traditional interior arrangement comprising a forward V-berth cabin, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Given its design as a performance cruiser with an emphasis on "lifestyle on board," it would typically include a functional galley adequate for meal preparation while cruising, and sufficient storage for personal effects and provisions. While specific ventilation features are not detailed, Beneteau's general focus on comfortable and practical accommodations suggests reasonable airflow and light through deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Beneteau sailboats often praise the brand's solid construction and ability to deliver a satisfying balance of performance and comfort. While specific widespread owner reviews for the First 35.7 are less abundant, partly due to its "relatively rare" and "short-lived" production, general feedback on the Beneteau First series highlights their reputation for being robust and well-suited for spirited sailing. Owners appreciate the responsive handling and the boat's capacity for good speeds.

Common discussions among Beneteau owners, applicable to various models of the era, sometimes involve general maintenance considerations such as potential for strange creaking sounds, and the importance of monitoring fiberglass integrity and deck fittings over time, to address common issues like deck core rot or leaks. The Beneteau brand fosters a strong sense of community, with numerous owner groups and rallies providing opportunities for shared experiences and mutual support.