Sailing Performance & Handling
The Beneteau First 50 is built around a performance-oriented hull that utilizes a high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, typically hovering around 22–24 depending on the rig configuration. This makes the vessel remarkably responsive in light air, a trait often noted in professional sea trials. The yacht was offered with two main keel configurations: a standard 2.40m draft and a deep-draft 2.80m T-bulb keel. According to technical assessments by Yachting World, the deep-keel version provides exceptional righting moment, allowing the boat to carry its massive mainsail deep into the wind range before needing a reef.
Handling is defined by a single, deep spade rudder that provides significant bite, though the boat's wide beam carried aft requires the helmsperson to stay attentive to heel angles to avoid rounding up in heavy gusts. The cockpit layout is optimized for a full crew, with primary winches positioned for easy reach by the trimmers, yet the inclusion of a German mainsheet system led back to the twin helm stations makes it manageable for a capable couple. Owners often report that the boat "finds its groove" quickly, tracking with a stability that belies its performance pedigree.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The collaboration with Nauta Design resulted in an interior that was revolutionary for Beneteau at the time. Eschewing the traditional "cave-like" feel of older cruisers, the First 50 utilizes light oak veneers, clean horizontal lines, and a "loft-style" open plan. The standard layout features a three-cabin, two-head configuration. The forward master suite is particularly notable for its island berth and split head/shower arrangement, providing a level of privacy usually reserved for the Oceanis cruising line.
While the flush deck design creates a stunning exterior silhouette, it does necessitate a slightly shallower bilge and lower floorboards, which can impact storage for long-term provisioning. Beneteau produced several variations within the same hull mold, including the "S" or "Performance" package, which often included a carbon fiber rig and rod rigging. A sibling model, the First 45, was developed shortly after on a similar design language, offering a smaller footprint but sharing the same minimalist aesthetic and structural philosophy.
Popular Mentions & Media
The First 50 gained significant attention upon its release, winning the "Sailing World Boat of the Year" award in the Cruiser-Racer category. It was lauded for its ability to disguise its high-volume interior behind such a slim, aggressive profile. The model has also been a frequent subject of editorial praise in Sail Magazine, where reviewers highlighted its departure from the "charter-spec" look of previous Beneteau models toward a more bespoke, high-end finish.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers should approach the First 50 with a focus on its complex structural and mechanical systems. High-signal technical areas for inspection include:
- Hull-to-Grid Bonding: Like many Beneteaus of this era, the First 50 utilizes a structural fiberglass grid (liner) bonded to the hull. A professional surveyor should check for any signs of "star crazing" or separation in the bonding agent, particularly around the mast step and forward of the keel, which can occur if the boat has been grounded or campaigned hard in offshore races.
- Keel Bolt Torque: Given the high loads generated by the 2.80m deep-draft keel, the stainless steel keel bolts and their backing plates should be inspected for any signs of movement or weeping.
- Teak Deck Wear: Many First 50s were delivered with teak side decks and cockpits. Given the age of these vessels, the thickness of the teak and the condition of the caulking should be verified; early signs of "bung" failure can lead to water ingress into the core.
- Rigging Fatigue: If the vessel is equipped with the optional rod rigging, buyers must adhere to strict replacement schedules (typically every 10–12 years), as rod rigging does not show signs of fatigue as clearly as traditional wire.
Community & Resources
The First 50 is supported by a robust network of owners and technical experts. The Beneteau Yacht Club serves as the primary manufacturer-backed community for technical manuals and historical documentation. Additionally, the Beneteau First Owners Association provides a platform for owners to share specific tuning guides and modification ideas for this particular Philippe Briand design.
The Verdict
The Beneteau First 50 remains one of the most aesthetically successful yachts in the builder's history, offering a rare combination of "big boat" performance and high-concept interior design. It is a vessel for the sailor who values speed and style but requires the comforts of a modern three-cabin home.
Pros:
- Exceptional light-air performance and windward ability.
- Striking "flush deck" Mediterranean styling that remains contemporary.
- High-quality interior finish by Nauta Design.
- Manageable for short-handed sailing due to the German mainsheet system.
Cons:
- Deep draft (up to 2.8m) limits access to some shallow-water anchorages.
- Lower interior headroom in some areas compared to the Oceanis series.
- Expensive maintenance requirements for rod rigging and carbon spars (if equipped).
