Beneteau First 310 Sailboat Review, Specs, and Listings

Design and Construction

The First 310's hull is moderately beamy, particularly toward the aft sections, a shape that enhances form stability and opens up usable space below anchor. At 10 feet 6 inches of beam and roughly 7,040 pounds of displacement, she carries 1,785 pounds of iron ballast in a fin-keel configuration with a spade rudder. Construction is fiberglass with inner structural reinforcement, and the hull-to-deck logic follows Beneteau's practice. The aftward beam and hull give her a recognizable Finot performance profile without tipping fully into race-boat austerity. What Finot tradition means inside is plain: the interior is quite sparse and plastic, with stainless steel table supports that can jar against the eye, yet the layout is practical and the finish durable rather than luxurious.

Rig and Handling

The fractional sloop rig favors a larger mainsail and smaller headsail, and halyards and control lines are led aft to the cockpit for easy single- or short-handed sailing anchor. Reefing lines and control systems stay accessible from the helm, so a couple can manage sail without leaving the wheel. The fin keel and spade rudder deliver excellent maneuverability and responsiveness under sail, and the boat points well to windward thanks to the rig configuration and keel design. In light to moderate wind she accelerates easily and holds good speed from her relatively light displacement and efficient sail plan; in heavier winds or choppy seas the hull form offers respectable stability, and the rudder gives reliable control even when heeled. Through it all she remains balanced on the helm, providing a connected feel to the sailor rather than a detached autopilot-style detachment.

Accommodations

Below decks the First 310 typically includes a forward V-berth, a double aft cabin, and a saloon with convertible seating, comfortably accommodating up to four for cruising anchor. Yachting Monthly specifics the large double aftercabin, a plain forecabin, a small but adequate galley, a basic aft-facing chart table, and a good heads — all pretty much in the Finot tradition. The galley itself is equipped with a stove and sink, while the nav station and head compartment are well proportioned for a boat of this size. Adequate headroom and ample natural light contribute to a pleasant atmosphere, and the joinery and finish are typical of Beneteau from this era: durable, practical, and aesthetically pleasing without being overly luxurious.

Deck and Cockpit

The cockpit is deep and secure, with ergonomically positioned seating and winches, and the overall cockpit design protects crew in rougher conditions anchor. Wide side decks and secure handholds allow safe movement on deck, which matters when short-handed sail handling sends one crew member forward. The deck layout supports the led-aft control philosophy: nothing about the cockpit suggests a boat that punishes a couple for leaving the helm to trim.

Known Issues

Survey reports flag rudder-blade water intrusion anchor that can lead to internal delamination or swelling over time. Another reported issue relates to the keel bolts, and signs of weeping or slight movement around the keel-hull joint — the so-called smile crack — can develop. The electrical system, especially in early models, is relatively basic and may be prone to corrosion or outdated wiring configurations. On deck, original portlights and hatches may develop leaks over time, particularly if seals haven't been replaced. Some owners have noted limited holding tank capacity and minimal gray water management systems.

The Verdict

The First 310 is a Finot-penned cruiser-racer that delivers genuine performance without abandoning weekend-cruise livability. She is quick to accelerate, points well, and stays balanced, yet carries a practical four-berth interior in a beamy, modern hull. The known structural and systems watch-items are typical of her era and manageable with survey diligence.

Pros