First 38S5 Beneteau

Built from 1989 to 1994, this Beneteau represents a fascinating collaboration between yacht designer Jean Berret and renowned industrial designer Philippe Starck. The First 38S5 emerged during Beneteau's push to create performance-oriented cruising boats that could satisfy both racing enthusiasts and coastal cruisers. With her fin keel and bulb configuration paired with a spade rudder, this 38-footer delivers responsive handling characteristics that make her well-suited for both weekend racing and spirited coastal cruising. The fractional sloop rig provides excellent sail control and allows for easy single-handed sailing, while the generous sail area of 670 square feet ensures good performance in light to moderate conditions. The boat's moderate displacement of 14,520 pounds strikes a balance between cruising comfort and sailing performance. Her comfortable cockpit and well-planned deck layout reflect practical French design philosophy, making her appealing to cruising couples who appreciate good sailing manners without sacrificing comfort. The First 38S5's hull speed of 7.50 knots and sail area-to-displacement ratio indicate she's capable of rewarding sailing in a variety of conditions. While primarily designed for coastal and near-shore sailing, her solid fiberglass construction and seaworthy design make her suitable for confident sailors planning longer passages in favorable weather windows.

No owner reviews yet — be the first to share your experience with this boat.