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Sailboat Specifications

First 38 Beneteau

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Jean Berret · Built by Beneteau (Fra) · First built 1982

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LOA 40.20 ft  ·  Beam 12.80 ft  ·  Displacement 17,636.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 845.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the First 38 Beneteau Sailboat

Launched in 1982, this Jean Berret-designed sailboat represents Beneteau's successful entry into the performance cruising market during the early 1980s. The First 38 combines French design sensibilities with practical cruising capabilities, featuring a modern fin keel and spade rudder configuration that delivers responsive handling and solid upwind performance. With a displacement of 17,636 pounds and generous beam of 12.80 feet, this boat offers excellent stability and interior volume while maintaining spirited sailing characteristics. The masthead sloop rig carries 845 square feet of sail area, providing a sail area-to-displacement ratio of 20.03 that places it firmly in performance cruising territory. The comfort ratio of 25.56 indicates a boat that balances motion at sea with speed potential, making it well-suited for coastal cruising and occasional offshore passages. The hull design achieves a theoretical hull speed of 7.80 knots, while the capsize screening formula of 1.97 suggests good stability margins for extended cruising. Beneteau's fiberglass construction ensures durability, and the 45-horsepower engine provides adequate auxiliary power. This model appeals to sailors seeking a versatile platform that can handle weekend coastal sailing as well as longer cruising adventures with equal competence.

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Known Issues View all 7 issues →
High
The deck-to-hull joint on early Beneteau First series boats uses an outward-turning flange bonded and through-bolted with aluminum toe rail. The aluminum rail corrodes and the sealant fails, allowing persistent water ingress into the joint and adjacent balsa-cored deck areas.
1982–1988 models
High
Beneteau used balsa core extensively in the deck of this era, including around chainplates and hardware penetrations. Inadequate original sealing leads to water intrusion and core rot, particularly under stanchion bases, cleats, and winch pads. Tapping the deck for soft spots is essential.
1982–1988 models
High
The fin keel on early First 38 models was attached with mild steel keel bolts prone to corrosion. Rust weeping at the keel-to-hull joint is common and may indicate compromised bolts. Full inspection with bolt removal or ultrasound is recommended.
1982–1986 models
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 40.20 ft / 12.25 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 33.85 ft / 10.32 m
Beam 12.80 ft / 3.90 m
Max Draft 6.90 ft / 2.10 m
Displacement 17,636.00 lb / 8,000 kg
Ballast 6,614.00 lb / 3,000 kg
Ballast Type Iron
Sail Area (Reported) 845.00 ft² / 78.50 m²
Headroom 6.33 ft / 1.93 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Jean Berret
Builder Beneteau (FRA)
First Built 1982
Related Sailboats Oceanis 400 Beneteau · Sun Fast 40 Jeanneau · J/122 · Tartan 40 · Olson 40
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Perkins
Engine Model 4108
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 45
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the First 38 Beneteau's sail area to displacement ratio?

The First 38 Beneteau has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 20.03. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the First 38 Beneteau's comfort ratio?

The First 38 Beneteau has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 25.56. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the First 38 Beneteau safe for offshore sailing?

The First 38 Beneteau has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.97. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the First 38 Beneteau?

The theoretical hull speed of the First 38 Beneteau is 7.80 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a First 38 Beneteau weigh?

The First 38 Beneteau has a displacement of 17,636.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 40.20 ft.

Who designed the First 38 Beneteau?

The First 38 Beneteau was designed by Jean Berret, first built in 1982.