FIRST 53F5 (BENETEAU)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 52.17 ft |
| LWL | 43.33 ft |
| Beam | 14.75 ft |
| Draft | 8.08 ft |
| Displacement | 30,864 lb |
| Ballast | 9,481.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 8.8 kn |
About the FIRST 53F5 (BENETEAU)
Also called BENETEAU 53F5. Double aft cabin and four cabin versions and shoal draft (wing keel) available(draft: 6.25'/1.9m).
The Beneteau First 53F5 is a distinctive 1990 model designed by Bruce Farr and Pininfarina, representing a specific era of high-performance cruising yachts. With a displacement of 30864.0 lb and a beam of 14.75 ft, this vessel combines racing pedigree with cruising amenities, though the exact build count remains unverified in available data.
- Best for:
- This boat suits experienced coastal cruisers and performance-oriented sailors who prioritize speed and modern interior layouts over heavy offshore ruggedness. Its design appeals to those seeking a fast, comfortable day-sailer or short-range cruiser rather than a dedicated bluewater expedition vessel.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low D/L ratio of 169.37 and a capsize ratio of 1.88, the boat is designed for performance rather than heavy offshore endurance, making it suitable for protected coastal waters but requiring careful consideration for open ocean passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable vessels include other late-80s/early-90s performance cruisers like the Oyster 53 or Hallberg-Rassy 382, which share similar eras and roles. However, the First 53F5 is more directly comparable to other Beneteau First series models or Farr-designed yachts from the same period that emphasize light displacement and wide beams for speed.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
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 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 5.7 | 6.9 | 7.8 | 8.3 | 8.6 | 8.7 | 8.9 |
| 60° | 6.2 | 7.4 | 8.2 | 8.6 | 8.9 | 9.0 | 9.2 |
| 75° | 6.6 | 7.8 | 8.5 | 8.9 | 9.2 | 9.4 | 9.8 |
| 90° | 6.6 | 7.8 | 8.5 | 8.9 | 9.2 | 9.6 | 10.2 |
| 110° | 6.0 | 7.4 | 8.3 | 8.8 | 9.3 | 9.7 | 10.5 |
| 120° | 5.8 | 7.1 | 8.1 | 8.7 | 9.1 | 9.6 | 10.6 |
| 135° | 5.1 | 6.4 | 7.5 | 8.3 | 8.8 | 9.2 | 10.1 |
| 150° | 4.3 | 5.5 | 6.5 | 7.4 | 8.2 | 8.7 | 9.4 |
| Beat VMG | 3.6 | 4.5 | 5.1 | 5.6 | 5.9 | 6.1 | 6.3 |
| Run VMG | 3.7 | 4.8 | 5.7 | 6.5 | 7.2 | 7.9 | 8.8 |
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the FIRST 53F5 (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 52.17ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
2 reported issues across 2 systems for the FIRST 53F5 (BENETEAU), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a FIRST 53F5 (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 2 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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