First 51 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau First 51 commenced production in 1987. At its inception, Beneteau aimed for a yacht that exemplified "power, perfection, beauty," reflecting a desire for a vessel that stood out for its intelligence, elegance, and passion. The design was entrusted to German Frers, a naval architect celebrated for his ability to craft fast yet seaworthy yachts. Frers's philosophy for the First 51 was to create a true "racer/cruiser," striking a balance between competitive performance on the racecourse and comfortable living spaces for extended voyages. This model was reportedly built at Beneteau's bespoke CNB yard, suggesting a focus on elevated quality and meticulous attention to detail during its construction. While precise production end dates or significant generational variations (such as MkI or MkII) are not widely detailed, the First 51 was offered with options like lead ballast and a shoal draft wing keel of 5.93 feet (1.81 meters) in addition to its standard 9.18-foot (2.80 meters) fin keel, providing flexibility for different sailing grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 51’s design metrics reveal a yacht engineered for engaging sailing. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.94, she demonstrates a strong sail plan relative to her displacement, indicating good performance in lighter winds and the ability to accelerate effectively. Her Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, at nearly 0.496, is significantly high. This substantial ballast ratio contributes to the yacht's impressive stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up to a strong breeze and maintain a more comfortable motion in a seaway. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 159.47 suggests a lighter, more performance-oriented hull form for its size, rather than a heavy, traditional cruiser. This combination of ratios points to a yacht that is responsive and capable, aligning with its "racer/cruiser" designation. Anecdotal evidence suggests the First 51 is a "magnificent" yacht that has "stood the test of time," with an appeal that rivals many contemporary designs. Owners and reviewers often describe Beneteau's First series as offering a "spirited sailing experience," indicating that the First 51 would deliver satisfying performance and a well-balanced feel at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Beneteau First 51 are not extensively documented in widely available public reviews, the yacht was designed as a performance cruiser, implying a thoughtful balance between racing functionality and onboard comfort. Typical layouts for a vessel of this size and era would generally include a forward V-berth cabin, a spacious salon for dining and relaxation, a functional galley for meal preparation, and a dedicated head compartment. Given Beneteau's reputation for producing practical and comfortable accommodations, the First 51 would likely feature well-finished interiors, possibly with a mix of wood trim and fiberglass elements, designed for both aesthetic appeal and durability. Storage would be ample for extended cruising, and ventilation would be provided through deck hatches and portlights, consistent with a yacht intended for liveability as well as performance.