Beneteau -Briand First 45 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The First 45 is frequently described by helmspersons as a "wolf in sheep’s clothing." With a displacement of approximately 11,545 kg and a generous sail area, the boat exhibits a high power-to-weight ratio that allows it to excel in light to moderate air where heavier cruisers would struggle. The Philippe Briand hull design utilizes a deep T-bulb keel (standard at 2.40m or an optional 2.74m deep-draft version) which provides exceptional righting moment and allows the boat to point remarkably high into the wind.

According to technical reviews from the era, the boat’s steering is exceptionally communicative thanks to its twin-wheel configuration and a deep, high-aspect-ratio spade rudder. On the racecourse, the boat is known for its "tracking" ability, maintaining a steady groove even in a choppy seaway. Owners often highlight that the boat feels "stiff," a result of the structural inner grid (hull liner) that is bonded and glassed to the hull to distribute the high loads of the rig and keel. For those looking for maximum performance, some hulls were delivered with a carbon mast and rod rigging, significantly reducing pitching moment and enhancing the vessel's responsiveness in a blow.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the First 45 showcases the "New Design" philosophy of the late 2000s, featuring light-colored wood—typically blond oak—and clean, horizontal lines that emphasize the boat's 4.20m beam. The layout is almost exclusively configured with three cabins and two heads. The forward master suite is a standout feature for a performance-oriented boat, offering a large island berth and a private en-suite head with a separate shower stall.

The salon is designed with a linear galley to port and a large U-shaped settee to starboard, which provides a social hub that feels more like a pure cruiser than a racer. Beneteau and Nauta Design focused on "flush" surfaces, meaning lockers and cabinetry are recessed to prevent injury during high-angle sailing. While the First 45 is the primary hull, it is worth noting its close relationship to the First 40; the 45 offers significantly more headroom (nearly 1.95m in the salon) and a much larger cockpit, which is divided into a "working" area for the crew aft and a "relaxation" area forward of the twin pedestals.

Popular Mentions & Media

The First 45 gained significant traction in the European racing circuit shortly after its release, often appearing on the leaderboards of the Spi Ouest-France and the Giraglia Rolex Cup. Editorial coverage from Yachting World during its launch phase praised the boat for its "uncompromising" performance while maintaining the volume of a dedicated cruiser. It remains a popular subject in "used boat" reviews for its ability to transition from a family holiday platform to a competitive club racer.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a First 45 should focus on the following high-signal areas during survey:

• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the boat’s performance nature and deep T-bulb keel, the keel floors and the joint itself should be inspected for "smile" cracks or signs of grounding, which can compromise the structural grid.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Most units are powered by a Yanmar engine with a saildrive. The rubber seals (diaphragms) have a recommended service life of seven years; on many used models, these are overdue for replacement.
• Rigging Loads: If the boat has been campaigned heavily in regattas, the chainplates and the mast step should be checked for stress fractures or deformation, particularly on models with rod rigging which can fatigue faster than wire.
• Deck Hardware Bedding: The First 45 features many flush-mounted hatches and a plethora of deck organizers. Over time, the seals on these fittings can perish, leading to minor leaks that may affect the interior cabinetry if not addressed.

Community & Resources

The First 45 is well-supported by a global network of owners. The most prominent resource for technical documentation and historical data is the Beneteau Group's official heritage and spare parts portal. Additionally, the Beneteau Owners Association provides a platform for owners to share specific tuning guides for the Briand-designed hull, which is particularly helpful for those looking to optimize their IRC or ORC ratings.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 45 is a modern classic that successfully bridged the gap between the utilitarian racers of the 90s and the luxury-focused cruisers of the 2020s. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who refuses to accept a sluggish boat but still requires a high-quality interior for family coastal hopping.

• Pros: Exceptional upwind performance; sleek, contemporary interior design; large, ergonomic cockpit for both racing and entertaining.
• Cons: Deep draft may limit access to some shallow cruising grounds; the high-performance rig and sailplan require active management in heavy weather; secondary market prices remain high due to its "cross-over" appeal.