Home/ Boats/ Beneteau (Fra)/ First Class Challenge Beneteau
Sailboat Specifications

First Class Challenge Beneteau

Fractional Sloop · Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder

Designed by Groupe Finot/Jean Beret · Built by Beneteau (Fra) · First built 1989

+ Add to Compare
LOA 29.99 ft  ·  Beam 10.66 ft  ·  Displacement 5,291.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 525  ·  Fractional Sloop  ·  Fin W/Bulb & Spade Rudder
About the First Class Challenge Beneteau Sailboat

Beneteau's First Class Challenge represents an intriguing entry in the French builder's diverse portfolio, though detailed information about this particular model remains relatively scarce in contemporary sailing circles. Based on the naming convention, this yacht appears to have been positioned as a performance-oriented vessel, likely designed to bridge the gap between racing capability and comfortable cruising. The "Challenge" designation suggests this boat was engineered with competitive sailing in mind, potentially making it well-suited for club racing, coastal regattas, and spirited day sailing. Beneteau's design philosophy during various periods has consistently emphasized accessible performance, creating boats that offer racing-inspired handling characteristics while maintaining the comfort and build quality expected by cruising sailors. Given Beneteau's reputation for producing versatile vessels that appeal to both weekend racers and coastal cruisers, the First Class Challenge likely features a balanced design approach. The boat would be expected to deliver responsive sailing characteristics in a variety of wind conditions while offering adequate accommodations for extended outings. For sailors seeking a yacht that can transition seamlessly from Saturday racing to Sunday family cruising, this model would represent Beneteau's attempt to satisfy both ambitions in a single, well-executed package.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 29.99 ft / 9.14 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 27.56 ft / 8.40 m
Beam 10.66 ft / 3.25 m
Max Draft 5.92 ft / 1.80 m
Displacement 5,291.00 lb / 2,400 kg
Ballast 1,984.00 lb / 900 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 525
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Groupe Finot/Jean Beret
Builder Beneteau (FRA)
First Built 1989
Related Sailboats Figaro Solo Beneteau · J/30 · Capri 30 Catalina · Cs 30 · Moore 30
Owner Reviews

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

Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 8 gals / 30 L
Water Capacity 15 gals / 57 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The First Class Challenge Beneteau has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 27.75. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the First Class Challenge Beneteau's comfort ratio?

The First Class Challenge Beneteau has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 12.36. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the First Class Challenge Beneteau safe for offshore sailing?

The First Class Challenge Beneteau has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.45. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the First Class Challenge Beneteau?

The theoretical hull speed of the First Class Challenge Beneteau is 7.03 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a First Class Challenge Beneteau weigh?

The First Class Challenge Beneteau has a displacement of 5,291.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 29.99 ft.

Who designed the First Class Challenge Beneteau?

The First Class Challenge Beneteau was designed by Groupe Finot/Jean Beret, first built in 1989.