Beneteau First 345 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Jean Berret hull is characterized by a moderate displacement and a powerful masthead rig, a combination that allows the First 345 to excel in a wide range of conditions. According to technical documentation from the Beneteau Group Heritage archives, the vessel was offered with two main keel configurations: a deep fin draft of approximately 6'3" and a shallower 4'11" version.

In terms of handling, the 345 is known for being remarkably stiff, a trait attributed to its generous ballast-to-displacement ratio (approaching 40% in some configurations). Under sail, the boat tracks well, though the large masthead genoa—typical of the mid-80s—requires significant winch work when tacking in heavy air. For modern sailors accustomed to fractional rigs with large mainsails, the 345 feels traditional, requiring early reefing of the headsail to maintain balance as the breeze builds.

Owner anecdotes often highlight the boat’s "sea-kindliness" in a chop; the V-shaped entry cuts through waves effectively, avoiding the "slamming" often associated with modern, flatter-bottomed designs. While the IOR influence is visible in its wide maximum beam (11'6") that tapers toward the stern, the hull avoids the extreme "tumblehome" that made many IOR boats difficult to handle downwind. Instead, the 345 remains predictable and stable under spinnaker.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the First 345 was considered revolutionary for the mid-1980s. Beneteau offered the model in two primary configurations: an "Owner’s Version" with two cabins and a "Team Version" featuring three cabins. The three-cabin layout was particularly impressive for a 34-foot boat, providing two symmetrical double cabins aft and a V-berth forward, making it a favorite for charter fleets and larger families.

The joinery typically features a mix of solid teak and teak veneers, finished in the rich, dark tones prevalent in that era of French boatbuilding. The salon is centered around a large folding table with U-shaped seating to port and a straight settee to starboard. A key design highlight is the forward-facing navigation station, which is sized for full-sized paper charts—a luxury often lost in modern yachts of this size.

While the "Team Version" maximizes sleeping capacity, the two-cabin "Owner’s Version" is often preferred by long-distance cruisers. This variant typically features a larger head and an expansive storage locker accessible from the cockpit, providing the room necessary for sails, fenders, and cruising gear. Headroom is generous throughout the main cabin, reaching approximately 6'2", which contributes to the airy feel of the interior despite the dark wood finishes.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a First 345 should focus their survey on a few specific areas common to Beneteau models of this vintage:

• The "Beneteau Smile": This refers to a hairline crack that can appear at the forward leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often a cosmetic issue in the fairing compound, it can indicate a need to retorque keel bolts or inspect the internal fiberglass grid (matrix) for signs of separation.
• Deck Core Saturation: Like many boats of this era, the 345 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around aging stanchion bases, chainplates, or the mast step can lead to core rot. A professional moisture meter test and "sounding" the deck with a phenolic hammer are essential.
• Original Gate Valves: Many 345s were originally fitted with brass gate valves rather than modern bronze seacocks. These are prone to internal corrosion and seizing. If they have not been replaced with Tru-Design or Marelon/bronze ball valves, this should be a priority for the buyer.
• Osmotic Blistering: Produced before the widespread use of vinylester resins in the outer hull laminates, these boats are susceptible to gelcoat blisters. While rarely structural, a haul-out inspection is required to determine the extent of any osmotic activity.
• Rudder Bearing Wear: The 345 uses a spade rudder. Over time, the bushings can wear, leading to "play" in the steering wheel or tiller. This is usually fixable by replacing the bearings but should be checked during the survey.

Community & Resources

The First 345 benefits from a very active global community, largely due to the sheer volume of boats produced. The Beneteau Owners Association serves as a primary hub for technical manuals and historical brochures. Additionally, the Club Beneteau (France) and various national chapters provide a wealth of knowledge regarding specific DIY repairs and performance upgrades for this specific model.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 345 is a quintessential classic that offers a high "smiles-per-dollar" ratio. It is fast enough to be competitive in club racing yet comfortable enough for extended coastal cruising. While its aging systems and 1980s aesthetics may require updates, its structural integrity and Jean Berret lines have aged gracefully.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume for a 34-footer, especially in the 3-cabin version.
• Stiff, predictable sailing performance with excellent upwind capability.
• Timeless design that avoids the extreme aesthetic quirks of the IOR era.
• Extensive spare parts availability through the Beneteau dealer network.

Cons:

• Large overlapping genoa can be physically demanding for short-handed crews.
• Potential for "Beneteau Smile" and deck core issues typical of mid-80s construction.
• Original teak interiors can feel dark compared to modern, light-oak alternatives.