Beneteau First - A formula that works

by Beneteau-Vicsail Sydney on 21 Jul 2010 No other range of production yachts has had such affirmed success racing and dually been able to answer the cruising needs of discerning yachtsman. It is with intent that Beneteau FIRST models are highly adaptable for racing but principally pointed towards fast cruising.

The synonymous relationship between Bruce Farr and the FIRST range continues with the release of the new FIRST 35. Making her debut at Sydney International Boat Show this year, she will be stabled next to her multi-award winning sister and last years Sydney to Hobart champion - the FIRST 40.

This pedigree thrives on hard conditions and the First 35 is no exception - designed and built to handle every sea. With a deep T-bulb fin keel and slender dagger rudder the under- water profile carves a path with balance, stiffness and agility.

Equally above the water; the tall, fractional rig with two swept spreaders and non overlapping headsails is designed for a wide range of conditions with ease of handling. Capable of single handed control, she also chomps at the bit for a gallop around the track!

Through the cockpit the First 35 is easily mounted and naturally welcoming with a redefined use of space. Open transom, wide cockpit sole, clean companionway access and slanted cockpit combings are ergonomic and elegant in style.

Below deck Studio Nauta blessed her with good looks and functionality. The two large cabins, spacious saloon, complete galley and the dedicated bathroom has remarkable space, comparable to the First 40.

The First 35 on display at the Sydney International Boat Show is available for immediate sale and will be offered with boat show promotions applied.


First 30 - Chime those chines!

Juan Kouyoumdjan, designer of the last two Volvo 70 around-the-World winners, has joined the Beneteau specialist designer list! Currently the most desired race-boat naval architect in the world, Juan K has 'waved his wand' over the long standing First 31.7 to produce a truly exciting new model for Beneteau - the FIRST 30.

In Conjunction with the French legend Open 60 sailor Michel Desjoyeaux - the two minds have lived up to reputation to create the First 30 - a legitimate coastal racer!

She is fine in the bow (with a positive sheerline) and boxy in the stern with a flat bum and long accentuated chines! Twin transom hung rudders (tiller steer) plus a forward slanted (and weighted) fin/bulb keel makes for an aggressive underwater profile, certain to have 'get up go' around the track.

The 'skiff like' qualities seen in the First 30 and can be directly related to the Volvo 70 developments made by Juan K and Michel Desjoyeaux's knowledge from professional offshore racing campaigns. The proportionately larger batwing mainsail (transom sheeted), exclusion of backstay and non-overlapping headsails formulate a vessel that is trimmed like a sports yacht yet easily managed short handed.

The wide, uncluttered cockpit with a simple rigging and working gear configuration is ideal for manoeuvring about the yacht and promotes clean teamwork or easy cruising. Specific knowledge from Desjoyeaux's offshore experience has been used for these advancements.

Below deck surprises most with the level of comfort, a large aft double with walk through access to the galley and saloon with a V-berth forward. It is typical of what to expect in a 34 footer and her interior fitt-out stays true to the latest range of Firsts making her one sexy 30 footer!

With Juan K and Michel Desjoyeaux's stamps on this vessel, it is sure footing to stay at the front yacht design and eye catching to those behind!

For further details on the First 30, First 35 and First 40 contact Vicsail Sydney. (02) 9327 2088 info@vicsail.com