Beneteau First 305 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the First 305 is characterized by its stability and predictable tracking, a departure from the "twitchy" nature of smaller 1970s racers. The boat features a moderate-displacement hull with a relatively high ballast ratio (approximately 33%), which allows it to carry its sail area well into freshening breezes. In an editorial review by Yachting Monthly, testers noted that the 305 remains remarkably balanced on the helm, particularly when equipped with the deep-draft (5'9") fin keel.

The masthead sloop rig is simple but effective. While the standard version provides ample power for coastal cruising, the "S" (Sport) variant featured a taller mast and deeper keel for competitive club racing. In light air, the boat benefits from its relatively clean underbody, though like many designs of its era, it requires a sizable genoa to maintain speed in under 8 knots of breeze. Conversely, when the wind picks up, the hull’s flared sections provide significant secondary stability, making it a "dry" boat for its size compared to the flatter, modern designs that succeeded it.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The First 305 was a pioneer in the 30-foot class for successfully integrating two private sleeping cabins without compromising the aesthetics of the coachroof. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward and a genuine aft cabin tucked under the cockpit sole on the port side. This aft cabin was a major selling point in the mid-80s, offering a level of privacy rarely seen in vessels under 31 feet.

The main saloon is finished in a warm, traditional teak, featuring two longitudinal settees and a central folding table. Headroom is generous for a boat of this vintage, hovering around 6 feet near the companionway. The galley is functional, usually equipped with a two-burner stove, a small icebox, and a sink, though counter space is limited—a common trade-off for the expanded sleeping quarters. A dedicated navigation station to starboard serves as the command center, reflecting an era when paper charts were still the primary tool for coastal navigation. Beneteau also offered a sibling variant, the First 325, which utilized a similar design philosophy on a slightly larger hull, offering an even more expansive head and galley arrangement.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a First 305 should conduct a focused survey on several age-related and model-specific areas. As with many Beneteaus from the 1980s, the "inner grid" or structural liner is a critical point of inspection. This fiberglass grid is bonded to the hull to provide rigidity; if the boat has suffered a significant grounding, the bond can fail, particularly around the keel bolts. Owners on various technical forums often highlight the importance of checking for hairline cracks in the gelcoat near the forward end of the keel and the aft section of the grid.

• Keel Bolts and Gasket: Inspect the keel-to-hull joint for "Beneteau Smile" (cracking at the leading edge). While often cosmetic, it can indicate the need for re-torquing the keel bolts or replacing the bedding compound.
• Portlight Leaks: The original Lewmar or Goiot portlights are prone to seal failure after four decades. Check the woodwork below the windows for water staining or delamination.
• Engine Maintenance: Many units were originally fitted with the Volvo Penta 2002 series or Yanmar 2GM20 engines. The Volvo 2002 is known for cooling system scale buildup and spline wear on the transmission; a mechanical inspection of the raw-water intake and exhaust elbow is advised.
• Deck Cored Areas: While Beneteau used solid fiberglass for much of the hull, sections of the deck are balsa-cored. Check for "spongy" spots around stanchion bases and the mast step, which may indicate water ingress and core rot.

Community & Resources

Owners of the First 305 benefit from one of the largest support networks in the maritime world. The Beneteau Owners Association (BOA) provides a wealth of technical documentation and historical brochures for legacy models. Additionally, because the 305 shares many components with other "First" models of the 1980s, parts like rudder bearings and specialized hardware are often still available through Beneteau’s spare parts divisions or specialized aftermarket suppliers.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 305 remains a compelling choice for sailors seeking a classic "all-rounder." It offers enough performance to satisfy former dinghy racers while providing the privacy and amenities necessary for a family of four to enjoy a weekend cruise. While it lacks the "open-concept" feel of modern wide-stern cruisers, its build quality and sea-kindliness make it a robust entry-level yacht for those willing to manage the maintenance of a vintage fiberglass vessel.

Pros

• Excellent balance of racing pedigree and cruising comfort.
• Pioneering two-cabin layout for its size.
• Stiff, seaworthy hull that inspires confidence in heavy weather.
• Strong resale value and high demand in the used market.

Cons

• Original Volvo 2002 engines can be costly to maintain/repair.
• Interior galley space is cramped by modern standards.
• Potential for structural liner (grid) issues if previously grounded.
• Deck hardware and portlights often require systematic upgrading.