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703data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this FIRST 25 (BENETEAU) buyer’s report
FIRST 25 (BENETEAU)

FIRST 25 (BENETEAU)

Beneteau🇺🇸· Design: Jean-Marie Finot
1979–19841,115 built
$900 – $2.4K est. annual maintenance
DaysailermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA24.61 ft
LWL21.82 ft
Beam9.19 ft
Draft4.26 ft
Displacement3,968 lb
Ballast1,543.2 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.3 kn

About the FIRST 25 (BENETEAU)

Available with fixed or swing keel. Not to be confused with the BENETEAU 25 (also called PLATU), designed by Farr, and later still, the BENETEAU 25S (2002), from Finot/Conq.

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Jean-Marie Finot and built by Beneteau (USA) from 1979–1984, the First 25 is a compact masthead sloop with 1115 hulls produced. It offers a lightweight displacement of 3968.0 lb and a beam of 9.19 ft, making it a popular choice for coastal cruising and trailerability.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers, trailerable boat owners, and single-handers who prioritize ease of handling and storage over heavy offshore endurance.
Bluewater capability:
With a low D/L ratio of 170.51 and a capsize ratio of 2.33, the First 25 is generally considered suitable for protected coastal waters rather than extended bluewater passages.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include the Catalina 25 and O'Day 23, which share similar dimensions and roles as trailerable coastal cruisers from the same era.

Performance

Comfort14.1
Capsize2.33
SA/Disp18.1
Disp/Len171
Bal/Disp38.9

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the FIRST 25 (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 24.61ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$900 – $2.4K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Articles & Reviews

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

28 reported issues across 9 systems for the FIRST 25 (BENETEAU), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

9 critical10 major9 minor
Structural7Rigging5Engine5Rudder3Deck3Hull2Keel1Electrical1Plumbing1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a FIRST 25 (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 28 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

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your FIRST 25 (BENETEAU)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Volvo Penta, Universal — is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the FIRST 25 (BENETEAU)

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