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Sailboat Specifications

First 35 Beneteau

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Jean Berret · Built by Beneteau (Fra) · First built 1980

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LOA 35.17 ft  ·  Beam 12.17 ft  ·  Displacement 10,485.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 555.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the First 35 Beneteau Sailboat

Designed by Jean Berret and launched in 1980, this French-built sailboat represents Beneteau's successful entry into the performance cruising market of the early 1980s. With 455 hulls produced, the First 35 became a popular choice among sailors seeking a capable coastal cruiser with spirited sailing characteristics. The boat's fin keel and spade rudder configuration delivers responsive handling, while the masthead sloop rig provides versatile sail handling options for varied conditions. At 35.17 feet overall with a waterline length of 28.83 feet, she offers a good balance of interior space and sailing performance. The substantial beam of 12.17 feet creates generous accommodation below while maintaining stability under sail. With a displacement of 10,485 pounds and ballast ratio that supports her 555 square feet of sail area, the First 35 demonstrates Jean Berret's skill in creating boats that sail well without sacrificing comfort. Her comfort ratio of 18.91 indicates a relatively quick motion at sea, making her better suited for coastal cruising and club racing rather than extended offshore passages. The fiberglass construction has proven durable over the decades, and many examples remain active on the used boat market, testament to the design's enduring appeal among recreational sailors.

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Known Issues View all 7 issues →
High
The balsa-cored deck used throughout the First 35 is susceptible to core saturation around chainplate fastenings, stanchion bases, and genoa track bolts. Wet core in these areas is common and often extensive by the time of resale.
High
The fin keel attachment on early First 35s used a relatively narrow keel stub with a limited number of keel bolts; the keel-to-hull joint should be carefully inspected for cracking, weeping rust stains, or soft gelcoat indicating water intrusion and potential bolt corrosion.
High
Chainplate knees on the First 35 are glassed to the hull liner rather than tied into the main structural grid, and the bond can fail over time under load, causing chainplate movement and deck leaks that are difficult to detect without removing interior headliner panels.
+ 4 more issues — see full list →
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 35.17 ft / 10.72 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 28.83 ft / 8.79 m
Beam 12.17 ft / 3.71 m
Max Draft 6.25 ft / 1.91 m
Displacement 10,485.00 lb / 4,756 kg
Ballast 4,850.00 lb / 2,200 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 555.00 ft² / 51.56 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Jean Berret
Builder Beneteau (FRA)
First Built 1980
Number Built 455
Associations IOR 3/4 ton
Related Sailboats Maxi 108 · Niagara 35 · Scanmar 35 · Bianca 107 · Tartan 3500
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Volvo or Yanmar
Engine Type Diesel
Fuel Capacity 18 gals / 68 L
Water Capacity 53 gals / 201 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First 35 Beneteau's sail area to displacement ratio?

The First 35 Beneteau has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 18.6. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the First 35 Beneteau's comfort ratio?

The First 35 Beneteau has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18.91. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the First 35 Beneteau safe for offshore sailing?

The First 35 Beneteau has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.23. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the First 35 Beneteau?

The theoretical hull speed of the First 35 Beneteau is 7.19 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a First 35 Beneteau weigh?

The First 35 Beneteau has a displacement of 10,485.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 35.17 ft.

Who designed the First 35 Beneteau?

The First 35 Beneteau was designed by Jean Berret, first built in 1980.