Beneteau Figaro Solo Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Figaro Solo is defined by its responsiveness and its somewhat "twitchy" nature, a characteristic common among high-performance racers of the early 90s. With a displacement of roughly 3,000 kg and a generous sail area, the boat is exceptionally fast off the wind. Its defining technical feature is the twin 200-liter water ballast tanks situated on either side of the hull. These tanks allow the solo sailor to simulate the weight of several crew members on the rail, significantly improving the boat’s righting moment when sailing upwind or on a tight reach.

According to technical reviews by the Finot-Conq design office, the hull was optimized for planing, featuring a relatively flat after-section and a fine entry. Handling the Figaro Solo requires constant attention; while it tracks well under autopilot compared to its predecessors, its narrow beam and light weight mean it can be prone to "broaching" if overpowered in a following sea. The rigging is robust, featuring a fractional 7/8ths spar with swept-back spreaders and running backstays, the latter of which adds a layer of complexity for the solo sailor but allows for precise control over mast bend and forestay tension.

Interior Comfort & Variations

As a vessel designed for elite solo competition, the interior of the Figaro Solo is spartan and strictly functional. The layout is optimized for weight distribution rather than luxury. It typically features two simple pipe cots for sleeping, a rudimentary navigation station, and a tiny, often-removable galley. Headroom is limited, and the finishes are generally exposed fiberglass or lightweight laminate, designed for easy cleaning and durability in a damp environment.

The hull proved so successful that Beneteau utilized it as the foundation for the more civil Beneteau First 31.7, which became one of the builder’s most popular production cruisers. While the Figaro Solo is a stripped-out racer, the First 31.7 sibling shares the same hull lines but includes a full wood-veneer interior, two private cabins, a proper head, and a standard keel without water ballast. Another close relative is the Beneteau First 310, which also drew heavily from the Figaro’s design evolution.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Figaro Solo is immortalized in sailing history as the "academy" boat for a generation of legendary offshore sailors. It was the vessel upon which icons like Michel Desjoyeaux, Jean Le Cam, and Dame Ellen MacArthur honed their craft. The boat's role in the Solitaire du Figaro is documented extensively in French maritime literature and racing archives. Because every competitor sailed the exact same model, the Figaro Solo is often credited in sailing media with having elevated the tactical level of solo ocean racing more than any other design in the 20th century.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

For a buyer looking at a Figaro Solo today, it is important to remember that these boats were often sailed exceptionally hard for decades.

• Water Ballast System: The plumbing, pumps, and valves for the 200-liter ballast tanks are common fail points. Inspect the sea cocks and the integrity of the tank baffles to ensure they are not leaking into the bilge.
• Structural Grid (Varangues): Given the high loads placed on the hull during offshore racing, the internal structural grid should be inspected for signs of "crazing" or delamination from the hull, especially around the keel attachment points.
• Mast Step and Rigging: The Figaro Solo uses running backstays, which put significant compression on the mast. Inspect the mast step for deformation and the chainplates for any signs of stress.
• Rudder Bearings: These boats were often steered by powerful autopilots in heavy seas, leading to accelerated wear on the rudder bearings. Check for excessive "play" in the tiller.
• Deck Core: Inspect the deck around high-load hardware (winches and tracks) for soft spots, as the balsa core can rot if deck fittings were not properly re-bedded over the years.

Community & Resources

The Figaro Solo is supported by a legacy of dedicated racing associations. The Classe Figaro (the official class association) maintains the historical records and class rules that governed these boats for over a decade. While the class has moved on to the Figaro 2 and the foil-assisted Figaro 3, technical knowledge remains abundant within the French "Sailing Valley" (Brittany) and through various offshore racing forums.

The Verdict

The Figaro Solo is a legendary racing machine that offers incredible performance for its size, but it is not a boat for the casual weekend cruiser.

Pros:

• Historic Pedigree: Owning a Figaro Solo is owning a piece of offshore racing history.
• Performance: Exceptional speed-to-length ratio and the ability to plane in moderate breezes.
• Durability: Built to withstand the Bay of Biscay and the North Atlantic.
• Technical Education: The water ballast and adjustable rig offer a masterclass in sail trim and boat handling.

Cons:

• Lack of Comfort: The interior is strictly utilitarian with almost no amenities.
• High Maintenance: Complex rigging (running backstays) and ballast systems require constant upkeep.
• Demanding to Sail: Requires an active, experienced hand to prevent broaching in heavy weather.
• Wear and Tear: Many units on the market have been "raced hard and put away wet," requiring significant refit work.