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Sailboat Specifications

First 325 Beneteau

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Jean Berret · Built by Beneteau (Fra) · First built 1985

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LOA 32.48 ft  ·  Beam 11.05 ft  ·  Displacement 9,700.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 440.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the First 325 Beneteau Sailboat

Designed by Jean Berret and launched in 1985, this French-built sailboat represents Beneteau's successful blend of performance and practicality during the mid-1980s sailing boom. The First 325 showcases the era's move toward lighter displacement hulls with modern fin keel and spade rudder configurations, delivering responsive handling that appeals to both weekend cruisers and club racers. With a displacement of 9,700 pounds and 440 square feet of sail area, this 32-footer strikes an appealing balance between stability and speed. The masthead sloop rig provides straightforward sail handling, while the fin keel design offers good windward performance without sacrificing interior volume. A comfort ratio of 20.89 indicates this boat favors performance over heavy-weather comfort, making it well-suited for coastal cruising and bay sailing rather than extended offshore passages. The hull's proportions suggest nimble sailing characteristics, with enough beam to provide reasonable accommodations below. Like many boats in Beneteau's First series, the 325 was designed to offer accessible performance sailing without the extreme nature of pure racing designs. This approach made it popular among sailors seeking a versatile boat capable of spirited day sailing, short cruises, and occasional club racing competition.

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Known Issues View all 8 issues →
High
The balsa-cored deck used by Beneteau in this era is highly susceptible to water ingress around deck hardware, chainplates, and stanchion bases. Once saturated, the core loses structural integrity and soft spots are common, particularly around the mast base and genoa tracks.
High
The fin keel attachment on early First 325 models uses a relatively shallow sump with a limited number of keel bolts. Keel bolt corrosion and keel-to-hull joint cracking or weeping is a known issue; the joint should be inspected carefully for rust staining, cracking, or movement.
1985–1989 models
High
The chainplate knees on this model are glassed to the hull liner rather than to the structural hull itself in some configurations, leading to potential delamination of the chainplate backing under load. Verify that chainplates are solidly backed and that surrounding laminate shows no cracking or lifting.
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 32.48 ft / 9.90 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 27.88 ft / 8.50 m
Beam 11.05 ft / 3.37 m
Max Draft 5.80 ft / 1.77 m
Displacement 9,700.00 lb / 4,400 kg
Ballast 3,747.00 lb / 1,700 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 440.00 ft² / 40.88 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Jean Berret
Builder Beneteau (FRA)
First Built 1985
Related Sailboats First 32S5 Beneteau · Ericson 32 3 · Pearson 33 2 · J32 · Catalina 320
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo
Engine Model 2002
Engine Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity 15 gals / 57 L
Water Capacity 53 gals / 201 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First 325 Beneteau's sail area to displacement ratio?

The First 325 Beneteau has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.53. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the First 325 Beneteau's comfort ratio?

The First 325 Beneteau has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 20.89. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the First 325 Beneteau safe for offshore sailing?

The First 325 Beneteau has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.08. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the First 325 Beneteau?

The theoretical hull speed of the First 325 Beneteau is 7.08 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a First 325 Beneteau weigh?

The First 325 Beneteau has a displacement of 9,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 32.48 ft.

Who designed the First 325 Beneteau?

The First 325 Beneteau was designed by Jean Berret, first built in 1985.