FIRST 38S5 (BENETEAU)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 38.25 ft |
| LWL | 31.33 ft |
| Beam | 12.33 ft |
| Draft | 6.5 ft |
| Shoal Draft | 5.16 ft(1.57 m) |
| Displacement | 14,520 lb |
| Ballast | 4,849.7 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 7.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Pmainsail luff | 17.29 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 15.42 ft |
About the FIRST 38S5 (BENETEAU)
Similar versions sold to charter trade as MOORINGS 38. (Not to be confused with an earlier MOORINGS 38 that was based on the FIRST 38.)
Designed by Jean Berret and Phillipe Starck and built by Beneteau from 1989–1994, the First 38S5 is a popular fractional sloop with a displacement of 14520.0 lb and a beam of 12.33 ft. While specific hull production numbers are unverified, the model is widely recognized for its performance-oriented layout and interior volume.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and performance-oriented sailors who prioritize sailing dynamics over heavy bluewater comfort, given its moderate comfort ratio of 23.67 and relatively light displacement.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 2.03 and a fin keel, the boat is capable of offshore passages, though its relatively low displacement and narrow beam suggest it is better suited for protected coastal waters than heavy ocean voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats from this era include the Beneteau First 36.7 and First 40.5, which share similar fractional rig configurations and performance-focused hull forms, as well as the J/36 for those seeking similar speed characteristics.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(2 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° | 3.5 | 4.8 | 5.8 | 6.5 | 6.8 | 7.0 | 7.1 | 7.2 | 7.1 |
| 60° | 3.8 | 5.1 | 6.1 | 6.7 | 7.0 | 7.2 | 7.3 | 7.4 | 7.4 |
| 75° | 3.9 | 5.3 | 6.3 | 6.9 | 7.2 | 7.4 | 7.6 | 7.8 | 7.8 |
| 90° | 3.8 | 5.3 | 6.4 | 7.0 | 7.4 | 7.6 | 7.8 | 8.0 | 8.3 |
| 110° | 3.8 | 5.3 | 6.5 | 7.2 | 7.5 | 7.9 | 8.2 | 8.6 | 8.9 |
| 120° | 3.6 | 5.1 | 6.3 | 7.0 | 7.5 | 7.8 | 8.1 | 8.8 | 9.5 |
| 135° | 3.2 | 4.5 | 5.7 | 6.6 | 7.2 | 7.5 | 7.9 | 8.6 | 9.5 |
| 150° | 2.6 | 3.8 | 4.9 | 5.8 | 6.6 | 7.1 | 7.4 | 8.0 | 8.6 |
| Beat VMG | 2.2 | 3.1 | 3.8 | 4.3 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.8 |
| Run VMG | 2.3 | 3.3 | 4.3 | 5.1 | 5.7 | 6.2 | 6.6 | 7.3 | 7.8 |
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FIRST 38S5 (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 38.25ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
16 reported issues across 8 systems for the FIRST 38S5 (BENETEAU), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FIRST 38S5 (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 16 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 38S5 (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, Perkins — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the FIRST 38S5 (BENETEAU)
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…