FIRST 18 SE (BENETEAU)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 18.21 ft |
| Beam | 7.81 ft |
| Draft | 4.92 ft/ 0.59 ft min |
| Displacement | 1,102 lb |
| Ballast | 276.1 lb |
About the FIRST 18 SE (BENETEAU)
In 2018 Beneteau purchased a controlling stake in the Slovenian builder Seascape, bringing all Seascape models into the fold of its First range. SE=Seascape Edition. Called the FIRST 18 from 2018-2020 Asym SA: 32 sqm / 344.45 sq ft Bowsprit: 1.4m / 4.59 ft Displacement above = light. Shallow keel: draft - 0.3 - 1.1m / 0.92 - 3.58ft; ballast: 145 kg / 320 lbs.
Designed by Samuel Manuard and built by Seascape, the Beneteau First 18 SE is a compact, high-performance day sailor produced in 2008. With a displacement of 1102.0 lb and a fractional sloop rig, it prioritizes speed and ease of handling over heavy cruising amenities.
- Best for:
- This boat is ideal for coastal day sailing, club racing, and single-handers seeking a lightweight, responsive package that is trailerable and easy to dock.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low displacement of 1102.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 3.03, this boat is not designed for offshore bluewater cruising and is best suited for protected coastal waters.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other 18-foot performance day sailors like the J/24 or Melges 18, though the First 18 SE distinguishes itself with a fractional rig and lighter displacement for quicker acceleration.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FIRST 18 SE (BENETEAU) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 18.21ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
10 reported issues across 5 systems for the FIRST 18 SE (BENETEAU), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FIRST 18 SE (BENETEAU)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 10 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
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