Beneteau First 210 Sailboat Review, Specs, and Listings

A fixed-keel version called the Classic appeared in 1993, while the centreboard form was later updated as the 211 in 1998. In a design review, one tester compared the general approach with the Mini-Transatlantic Class, although the First 210 isn’t as radical in its proportions as a true mini-transat racer. It also remains the only design ever endorsed for sailing instruction by a national sail-training organization such as ASA or US Sailing.

Design and Construction

The First 210 has a modern, round-bilge hull and a very broad transom, giving it dinghylike proportions. Maximum beam sits well aft, around station nine, where the deck line has a curious little hook. There are no overhangs. The bow has a hint of concavity that allows the forward sections to flare, while the midsection combines moderate waterline beam with a tiny amount of tumblehome.

The hull’s size and shape remained consistent across all versions. Period reviews confirm that the boat is unsinkable. Its twin rudders are canted outboard at 15 degrees and connected by a member across the top of the open transom. This arrangement allows the boat to sit upright when grounded.

Above the hull, the bubblelike deck is striking, set off by a varnished mahogany toerail. The deck plan is practical, with logical, well-positioned fittings that make the boat easy to use.

Keel, Rig, and Handling

The First 210’s extremely high-aspect-ratio ballasted swing keel is not a centerboard. It sits in an unusually shaped nacelle below the hull, giving a board-up draft of 2 feet 3 inches and a deep configuration of around 5 feet 11 inches.

Across the different versions, the spars and basic sailplan are the same, apart from the squared-off top of the mainsail on newer boats. A deck-stepped spar with a hinged step supports a big, powerful rig that delivers plenty of performance. The hinged step also simplifies trailering and mast handling.

The shrouds lead to the deck edge, allowing a small jib to be sheeted inside them. The mainsheet leads to a single point on the cockpit sole, while all halyards run aft to jammers within easy reach of the helm. Together with the twin rudders and effective sail-handling hardware, this makes the boat easy to control.

At the open transom, the swim ladder and outboard bracket fit neatly between the rudders. Two cockpit lockers include a dedicated space for the outboard fuel tank.

Accommodation

Below, the interior consists of a one-piece GRP molding. It has been described as cavernous, though it is sparsely fitted out. A trunk carrying the top of the swing keel divides the cabin, and a hinged-leaf table attaches to it.

All four berths are adult-sized. A portable head fits beneath the V-berth, while a small sink and one-burner stove complete the galley. The manufacturer describes the First 210 Spirit as a comfortable four-berth boat. The simple layout also makes it a good introduction to cruising for dinghy sailors with growing families.

Versions and Used-Boat Ownership

Buyers on the used market will find the same hull shape throughout the production run. The differences between versions are limited to rig details and keel type rather than structure. The fixed-keel Classic arrived in 1993, and the centreboard form was later updated as the 211 in 1998.

The Verdict

The First 210 Spirit is a sporty yet unsinkable little trailer-sailer. It trades cabin luxury for a lively, dinghylike hull, a powerful rig, and straightforward launching and handling. Finot’s design suits sailors looking for responsive performance in a package intended for family coastal cruising and endorsed for instruction.

Pros