At 11,552 pounds displacement, the First 36.7 is no ultralight. Even so, its generous 655-square-foot working sail plan gives it the turn of speed expected from Beneteau’s First line. From the outset, the boat was offered with a provisional one-design class rule developed with Farr, strict weight controls, and a valid IMS rating certificate already on file.
Design and Construction
Farr’s design produced a hull measuring 35.1 feet LOA with an 11.5-foot beam. The racing version carried a deep 7.2-foot keel, while the cruising-oriented model had a standard 5.9-foot keel.
The aft sections of the cockpit seats are easily removable lockers. Taking them out opens the cockpit into an efficient T-shape with ample room for a racing crew. With the lockers installed, it still looks and functions like a conventional cruising cockpit.
Teak rails along the sheer provide firm footing when working to leeward, though they’re an uncomfortable obstruction for anyone hiking outboard. Below, the African mahogany woodwork has an evenly applied cherry stain and a high-quality varnished finish—a step above the utilitarian interiors found in many dual-purpose designs.
Rig and Handling
A raised, extended traveler track sits forward of the wheel. It provides plenty of mainsail travel without crowding the helm. Molded-in footrests serve both the helmsman and the foredeck crew working forward.
Owners choosing the full racing model could specify a three-spreader aluminum Sparcraft rig, Navtec rod rigging, a Tuff Luff headstay system, and spinnaker gear with a carbon-fiber pole. This configuration added a substantial premium over the base price.
Accommodations
Below, the First 36.7 makes a genuine attempt at cruising comfort without abandoning its racing brief. Two mirror-image aft staterooms each contain a large double berth, a hanging locker, and a privacy door.
The forward vee berth is minimal for two average-sized adults, though it works well for children. The galley has a suitably sized countertop with full 3-inch-deep fiddles. To starboard, the navigation station is spacious, and the forward head is adequately sized. A removable dining table opens the saloon for racing while preserving a practical living area for coastal cruising.
Verdict
The First 36.7 is a thoughtfully resolved racer-cruiser that handles both roles without apology. Farr’s hull and the configurable cockpit allow it to shift between one-design racing and weekending. The interior—particularly the twin aft cabins and deep-fiddled galley—shows real cruising intent.
The teak sheer strake and varnished mahogany are period-correct details that reward the eye, even if the rails themselves are no friend to a hiking crew.
Pros
- Fast racer-cruiser with a 655-square-foot working sail plan and one-design rule development
- Easily removable aft cockpit lockers create a true T-shaped racing cockpit
- Twin aft staterooms with double berths, hanging lockers, and privacy doors
- Spacious navigation station and deep-fiddled galley counter for cruising
- Choice of a deep 7.2-foot racing keel or standard 5.9-foot cruising keel
Cons
- Teak sheer rails make hiking outboard uncomfortable
- Forward vee berth is minimal for two average-sized adults
- Full racing rig and spinnaker gear carried a steep premium over the base price
