Beneteau First 24-2 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The sailing characteristics of the First 24-2 are defined by its relatively light displacement (approximately 3,300 lbs) and a generous sail area that gives it a Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio in the high 19s to low 20s. This suggests a boat that is "slippery" in light air and capable of punching above its weight class when racing in PHRF fleets. According to design data from Groupe Finot, the hull's teardrop shape and flat aft sections allow it to plane under the right conditions, particularly when equipped with a spinnaker.

Handling is generally described as nimble, with a high degree of responsiveness at the helm. However, because of its light weight and significant beam, the boat can be tender if overpowered. Owners typically report that the boat "talks" to the helm clearly, signaling the need for a reef once the wind exceeds 15 knots to maintain a comfortable heel angle. The boat was offered in two main configurations: a fixed fin keel and a lifting keel (swing keel). The lifting keel version, which uses a cast-iron internal ballast and a fiberglass-encapsulated foil, significantly increases the boat's versatility for gunkholing and trailering, though it introduces slightly more leeway when beating to windward compared to the fixed-keel variant.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel under 25 feet, the First 24-2 provides an interior that feels surprisingly modern, largely due to the "open-plan" concept that Beneteau began championing during this period. The absence of a traditional bulkhead between the main salon and the V-berth creates an unbroken line of sight from the companionway to the bow, making the 8-foot 2-inch beam feel much larger than it is.

The layout typically features a small but functional galley to port and a compact navigation station to starboard. The 24-2 variant often included refined joinery and cabin liner improvements over the earliest 1982 models. Accommodations include a double V-berth forward and two long settee berths in the salon that extend under the cockpit seats, effectively acting as quarter berths. While the boat is marketed as sleeping four, it is most comfortable for a couple or a young family. Headroom is respectable for the size but requires a "crouch" for anyone over six feet. The head is typically located under the forward end of the V-berth or in a small enclosed compartment depending on the specific year's configuration, a design choice that maximized the central living area.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a First 24-2 should prioritize the following technical inspections to avoid common pitfalls associated with 1980s Beneteau builds:

1. Swing Keel Mechanism: On lifting keel models, the pivot bolt and the lifting cable/winch are critical failure points. Inspect the keel trunk for signs of stress cracking and ensure the keel does not "clunk" excessively when underway, which indicates worn bushings.
2. Deck Core Integrity: Like many production boats of this era, the First 24-2 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step can lead to soft spots. A thorough percussion test with a phenolic hammer is recommended.
3. Rudder Play: The transom-hung rudder is subject to significant stress. Check the gudgeons and pintles for ovaling or corrosion. Some owners have reported the rudder blade itself can delaminate if water enters the foam core through the top edge.
4. Hull-Deck Joint: The joint is a classic "shoebox" design, through-bolted and covered by a rub rail. Inspect the interior areas under the toe rail for evidence of weeping or salt streaks, which indicate the sealant has failed and requires re-bedding.
5. Mast Step Compression: Check the cabin top around the mast step for any sagging or "smiling" (concave deformation), which suggests the internal compression post or the deck core beneath the mast has compressed over time.

Community & Resources

The First 24-2 benefits from the massive global infrastructure of Beneteau. Owners can still access technical drawings and basic parts through the Beneteau Group Archives. For technical discussions specific to the Finot designs of this era, the Beneteau Owners Association (USA) and the French "Association des Propriétaires de First" provide technical wikis and historical documentation that are invaluable for restoration projects.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 24-2 is an excellent entry-level cruiser that offers more performance than a typical "marina queen" of the same size. It is a boat that rewards a sailor who enjoys tweaking sail trim but remains forgiving enough for family weekend outings.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and downwind speed.
• Spacious, airy interior for its length due to the open-plan layout.
• High resale value and strong parts availability through a global dealer network.
• The lifting keel version is highly versatile for shallow-water cruising.

Cons:

• Can be tender in heavy air, requiring early reefing.
• Swing keel maintenance is more labor-intensive than fixed keel alternatives.
• Aging 1980s deck hardware may require comprehensive re-bedding to prevent leaks.