FIRST 285 (BENETEAU)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 28.16 ft |
| LWL | 24.25 ft |
| Beam | 9.83 ft |
| Draft | 5.25 ft |
| Shoal Draft version | 3.75 ft(1.14 m) |
| Displacement | 6,160 lb |
| Ballast | 2,114.7 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.6 kn |
Engine
| Volvo Penta | 200218 hpSee all 17 parts → |
About the FIRST 285 (BENETEAU)
Winged Keel: 3.8'/1.16m Photo courtesy of Adam Hunt.
Designed by Group Finot and built by Beneteau, the First 285 was produced from 1985–1993, with a total of 451 hulls constructed. This compact fractional sloop offers a displacement of 6160.0 lb and a beam of 9.83 ft, representing a significant portion of the late-80s/early-90s production sailboat market.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize interior volume and ease of handling over extreme performance or heavy offshore capability. Its fractional rig and moderate displacement make it accessible for couples or small families seeking a manageable, trailerable-sized cruiser.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.15 and a comfort ratio of 17.84, the First 285 is designed for protected waters and coastal passages rather than extended bluewater voyaging. Its relatively light displacement of 6160.0 lb and fin keel configuration prioritize speed and maneuverability in moderate conditions over heavy-weather stability.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Beneteau First 27.5 and the O'Day 27, as they share similar fractional sloop rigs, displacement ranges, and target the same market of entry-level cruisers from the same era. The Hunter 27 is also a relevant competitor, offering similar interior layouts and coastal cruising capabilities.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(7 certificates)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 3.0 | 4.1 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.9 | 6.1 | 6.3 | 6.3 | 6.2 |
| 60° | 3.2 | 4.4 | 5.2 | 5.8 | 6.1 | 6.3 | 6.4 | 6.5 | 6.5 |
| 75° | 3.3 | 4.5 | 5.4 | 6.0 | 6.3 | 6.5 | 6.7 | 6.9 | 7.0 |
| 90° | 3.3 | 4.6 | 5.5 | 6.2 | 6.5 | 6.7 | 6.8 | 7.1 | 7.4 |
| 110° | 3.3 | 4.6 | 5.6 | 6.3 | 6.6 | 6.9 | 7.2 | 7.7 | 7.9 |
| 120° | 3.2 | 4.5 | 5.5 | 6.2 | 6.5 | 6.9 | 7.2 | 7.8 | 8.4 |
| 135° | 2.8 | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.8 | 6.3 | 6.7 | 7.0 | 7.7 | 8.5 |
| 150° | 2.3 | 3.4 | 4.4 | 5.3 | 5.9 | 6.4 | 6.7 | 7.3 | 8.1 |
| Beat VMG | 1.9 | 2.7 | 3.3 | 3.7 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.2 |
| Run VMG | 2.0 | 3.0 | 3.8 | 4.6 | 5.3 | 5.8 | 6.2 | 6.8 | 7.4 |
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FIRST 285 (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 28.16ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Articles & Reviews
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
25 reported issues across 11 systems for the FIRST 285 (BENETEAU), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FIRST 285 (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 25 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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Engine Parts & Maintenance
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Used sails that fit the FIRST 285 (BENETEAU)
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