Beneteau First 45 F5 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

At its core, the First 45f5 is a performance machine, benefiting from Bruce Farr’s expertise in IOR and IMS racing designs of the era. The hull features a powerful, wide stern and a fine entry, designed to provide exceptional speed off the wind while maintaining enough bite to climb to windward. With a Displacement/Length ratio typically hovering in the mid-160s, it is significantly lighter and more agile than the Oceanis cruising range of the same period.

According to Farr Yacht Design, the 45f5 (designated as Design 232) was engineered to be a versatile performer. On the water, owners report a boat that is stiff and capable of carrying its sail area well into the upper teens before needing a reef. The steering is generally described as responsive, though the wide beam requires the helmsman to keep the boat relatively flat to avoid loading up the rudder. In light air, the generous sail plan allows the 45f5 to ghost past pure cruisers, while in heavy weather, the deep-draft version (approx. 7'10") provides the necessary leverage to handle offshore conditions with confidence.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the First 45f5 was a radical departure from the traditional "teak box" cabins of the late 1980s. Pininfarina introduced sweeping curves, overhead grab rails integrated into the cabinetry, and the extensive use of molded fiberglass components paired with warm mahogany or cherry veneers. The salon is characterized by a large, C-shaped settee and a circular dining table that echoes the "Pininfarina curve."

The Beneteau Group's official archives note that the boat was offered in multiple configurations to suit different markets. The most common "Owner’s Version" features a massive forward master suite with a centerline island berth and an en-suite head. The "Charter" or "Performance" layouts often included two double cabins aft and a split forward cabin arrangement, accommodating up to eight guests. A hallmark of the design is the "hidden" storage and the integration of the nav station, which feels more like a cockpit in a luxury car than a traditional chart table. However, the curved surfaces, while beautiful, can make aftermarket modifications or repairs more challenging than on boats with straight joinery.

The First 45f5 was part of a broader family of Pininfarina-styled yachts, including the smaller First 35f5 and 38f5, and the larger, more powerful First 53f5. All shared the same design language, though the 45f5 is often cited as the most balanced in terms of scale and performance.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a First 45f5 with an understanding that these were high-performance boats often pushed hard in their early years.

• Mast Step and Rigging: Many units were equipped with rod rigging from the factory. If this hasn't been replaced in the last decade, it should be considered an immediate capital expense. Additionally, the mast step area should be inspected for signs of compression or corrosion, common in boats of this vintage with high rig loads.
• Deck Crazing and Core: The "f" series utilized a cored deck construction. While generally robust, the intricate curves of the Pininfarina deck can make repairing soft spots or "spider web" crazing more labor-intensive. Pay close attention to the areas around the shroud chainplates and the windlass.
• Interior Linings: The "soft-touch" headliners and side panels used in the 1990s are notorious for losing their adhesive bond over time. Buyers should check if the overhead panels are sagging or if there is a sticky residue behind the fabric, which indicates the foam backing is disintegrating.
• Keel Bolts and Grid: Given the Farr-designed deep keel, any signs of a "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint or stress cracks in the internal fiberglass grid should be professionally surveyed to rule out previous groundings.

Community & Resources

The First 45f5 maintains a loyal following, particularly in Europe and the Mediterranean. The Beneteau Owners Association serves as a primary hub for technical documentation and historical brochures. Owners also frequently exchange specific technical advice on the Beneteau First 45f5 Facebook Group, which is a high-signal resource for sourcing legacy parts for the unique Pininfarina interior fixtures.

The Verdict

The Beneteau First 45f5 is a "modern classic" that offers a level of style and speed that few boats in its price bracket can match. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who values pedigree and performance over the voluminous, upright cabins of modern coastal cruisers.

Pros:

• Exemplary performance across all points of sail thanks to the Farr hull.
• Iconic, timeless exterior styling that still looks modern today.
• High-quality Pininfarina interior that feels like a luxury yacht.
• Capable of both serious offshore cruising and club racing.

Cons:

• Complex interior curves make DIY cabinetry repairs difficult.
• Aging rod rigging and high-load hardware require diligent maintenance.
• Low-profile coachroof results in slightly less vertical storage than pure cruising models.