First 50 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

Launched in 2007, the First 50 emerged from Beneteau's esteemed First series, which has historically positioned the French builder in the performance cruiser market. Beneteau, with its rich heritage dating back to 1884, transitioned into fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a pivotal move that allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond traditional fishing fleets. This fiberglass revolution catalyzed Beneteau's expansion and diversification, enabling them to embrace design freedoms and produce recreational sailboats that balanced performance, comfort, and affordability. The company's consistent collaboration with renowned naval architects, including Philippe Briand, has ensured its designs remain contemporary and incorporate the latest advancements in naval architecture.

Philippe Briand's design philosophy for the First 50 centered on creating a yacht that efficiently interacts with air and water streams, leaving them undisturbed to maximize performance. This pure performance objective underpinned the yacht's development. While primarily known for a singular interior layout, the First 50 was available with a deep keel option, offering a draft of 9.16 feet compared to the standard 7.83 feet, along with a corresponding adjustment in ballast. The hull itself features a monolithic design in polyester, complemented by an injection-molded deck constructed with a sandwich of fiberglass, balsa wood, and synthetic resin, reflecting Beneteau's focus on robust build quality.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 50 is engineered for a spirited sailing experience, translating its robust specifications into qualitative performance on the water. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.52, the First 50 demonstrates its potential for strong performance, particularly in light to moderate winds, characteristic of a performance cruiser designed to move efficiently. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 164.76 further underscores its performance-oriented design, suggesting a relatively light and nimble vessel for its size, capable of competitive speeds.

Despite its performance focus, the First 50 maintains respectable stability, indicated by a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 34.6%. This moderate ratio ensures the boat can stand up to a good breeze without excessive heel, contributing to a comfortable motion while sailing. Owners and reviewers consistently laud the First 50 for its impressive handling and sailing characteristics. The cockpit ergonomics are well-conceived, providing ample space around the twin wheels and conveniently placed winches and stoppers, enhancing ease of handling during maneuvers. The yacht is capable of achieving a hull speed of 8.84 knots, indicative of its potential for fast passages. Its sleek and sophisticated hull form contributes to its ability to perform well offshore, making it suitable for ocean crossings as well as coastal cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau First 50 offers a thoughtfully designed interior, focusing on both comfort and practicality for extended stays aboard. The interior layout is characterized by a single, well-appointed arrangement featuring a forward cabin and two aft cabins, each equipped with double berths. This configuration provides ample private sleeping accommodations for multiple guests or a large family.

The saloon is generously proportioned, described as perfectly sized for entertaining, comfortably accommodating six to eight adults. The interior aesthetic is modern, reflecting the contemporary design principles applied by Veerle Battiau. While specific details on material finishes are somewhat limited in available reviews, Beneteau typically employs quality finishes that balance durability with a pleasing aesthetic. The overall impression is one of a spacious and welcoming environment, suitable for both short trips and longer voyages.