First Class Europe (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Beneteau First Class Europe was in production for a short, impactful period, from 1989 to 1991. Its creation coincided with a significant era for Beneteau, as the company, under the leadership of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons André and François, had fully embraced fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a pivotal move that allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal beyond traditional fishing vessels. The First series, to which the First Class Europe belongs, was instrumental in establishing Beneteau's presence in the performance cruiser market.

The design of the First Class Europe by Jean-Marie Finot aligns perfectly with Groupe Finot's reputation for innovative and performance-oriented designs, emphasizing speed and efficiency, a philosophy that permeates many of Beneteau's most successful racing-focused models. This sailboat was specifically conceived as a one-design class, intended to provide a level playing field for competitive sailors. While it was even considered for prestigious events like the "Tour de France à voile," ultimately another design was chosen for that specific race. There is no information to suggest significant variations (e.g., MkI vs. MkII) were produced during its limited run, maintaining its strict one-design integrity.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First Class Europe is characterized as an ultralight, high-performance sailboat, making waves in the world of offshore racing and appealing to enthusiasts of fast cruising. Its design specifications translate into a boat engineered for spirited sailing.

The calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 27.48 is exceptionally high, indicating that the First Class Europe is well-powered and capable of impressive performance, particularly in light to moderate air. This high ratio suggests a yacht that accelerates quickly and maintains good boat speed with minimal wind. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at around 75.49, is very low, confirming its status as an ultralight displacement vessel. This contributes to its agility and speed, making it responsive to trim and helming inputs.

With a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of approximately 0.306, the First Class Europe possesses reasonable stability, especially considering its light displacement and performance focus. Its bulb keel enhances hydrodynamic efficiency and provides a lower center of gravity for improved stability, while the spade rudder offers precise control and responsiveness, crucial for competitive racing and nimble handling in various sea states. The overall design emphasizes a lively and engaging sailing experience, tailored for those who prioritize speed and responsive handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary role as a one-design racing and fast cruising yacht, the interior accommodations of the Beneteau First Class Europe are designed with a balance of functionality for sailing and basic comfort for overnight stays or between-race休息. While specific detailed layouts are not readily available in general information, boats of this type and era typically feature a relatively open-plan interior below decks.

Expected features would include a forward V-berth for sleeping, a main salon with settees that may double as berths, and a compact galley area suitable for preparing simple meals. A marine head would typically be included. Storage would likely be optimized for gear and sails rather than extensive cruising provisions. The finish quality, consistent with Beneteau's "First" range, would generally be robust and practical, blending fiberglass liners with some wood trim for a functional yet inviting space. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, common for yachts of this size.