2003 Beneteau First
$55,550
Boat in Alameda, CA 94501 US
Built in 2003
First
--
36 feet
--
Fiberglass/Reinforced
PRICE REDUCTION
SELLER OFFERING TO FINANCE TO A QUALIFIED BUYER
Internationally popular one-design and well suited for San Francisco Bay Regattas and beyond.
Original owner, not raced hard, great sail inventory ...and clean! Well serviced, many upgrades and
low hours! Come see soon (before it's gone!)
("This dual-purpose boat, designed by Bruce Farr, is more user-friendly than its high-performance progenitors, but will still sail fast as a one-design or in handicap fleets." Practical Sailor)
Hull Type: Fin w/bulb & spade rudder
Rigging Type: Fractional Sloop
LOA: 35.76 ft / 10.90 m LWL: 30.25 ft / 9.22 m
Beam: 11.33 ft / 3.45 m Draft: 7.22 ft / 2.20 m
Displacement: 12,941 lb / 5,870 kg
Ballast: 3,847 lb / 1,745 kg
Construction: Fiberglas
First Built: 2000 Last Built: 2021
# Built: 800
Builder: Beneteau (USA) Designer: Farr Yacht Design
There have been substantial upgrades including:
Harken Roller Furler
Multiple (little used) Spinnakers
S.A. (reported): 845.00 ft2 / 78.50 m2
S.A./Disp.: 24.62 Bal./Disp.: 29.73
Disp./Len.: 208.71 Comfort Ratio: 24.72
Mast Height from DWL: 55.75 ft / 16.99 m
The salon measures almost 10′ on the centerline. There’s 6′ 2″ of headroom, and 8′ of clearance between the settee backs. Settees are 6′ 4″ long and 2′ 1″ wide, and will double as berths if lee cloths are installed.
The L-shaped galley to port is small but adequate, equipped with a twoburner stove and double sink. A counter covers a 24″ deep x 17″ wide reefer located outboard that needs shelves or portable baskets to be organized. Storage is in enclosed cupboards with teak doors, and opening ports provide ventilation.
To starboard, the nav station faces forward and is fitted with wood cabinetry large enough for mounting electronics and fuse panels. The chart table measures 31″ x 23″-large enough for use with a folded chart or computer.
The salon table: When in place it provides a surface for four to six diners; remove it, and its stainless steel support provides a foot brace for crew when underway.
The master stateroom is furnished with a V-berth measuring 6′ 1″ long and 5′ 3″ wide at the head. The cabin also has a hanging locker and shelves on the hull sides.
Aft, the bunk to port is nearly queen-sized, while the one to starboard is basically a single quarterberth with some privacy....actually an ideal sea berth.
The head compartment, with six feet of headroom, showers will be taken while seated on the toilet, The head space is shiny fiberglass, vented overhead- so it will be low-maintenance.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 3/31/26 | Initial price | $55,550 |
2003 Beneteau First Video Tours
Boattest.com Review
Overview
The Beneteau First 35 Carbon Edition is a versatile cruiser-racer designed to blend high-performance racing features with comfortable day sailing and weekend cruising accommodations. With a beam measuring 11 feet, 11 inches, this model incorporates advanced carbon fiber technology and racing accoutrements while maintaining practical functionality for recreational use.
Exterior Design and Deck Features
The deck layout of the First 35 Carbon Edition is thoughtfully arranged to support both racing efficiency and cruising comfort. Forward on the bow, the boat is equipped with roller furling gear paired with a high-tech racing jib, though racers seeking maximum performance might opt to remove the roller furler to increase sail area. A recessed anchor windlass with a concealed chain feed tube enhances usability for both racing and cruising scenarios. Control lines are led aft from the mast to the companionway, centralized through banks of jammers on both sides to companionway winches, ensuring all lines are within easy reach. The rigid boom vang features a robust block and tackle system, providing precise mainsail shape control and added safety by preventing the boom from dropping unexpectedly into the cockpit. The cockpit itself is spacious and open, serving as an efficient racing platform and a comfortable lounging area at anchor. The starboard bench seat conceals ample sail gear storage, while winches are strategically placed outboard for effective sail trimming and ease of movement. A removable bridge beam at the aft cockpit opens access to the stern for swimming, gear transfer, or med mooring. Additional practical features include a freshwater faucet and shower, propane tank storage, performance instrumentation, and an emergency bilge pump on the port side, with engine controls, gauges, autopilot, and a life raft locker conveniently positioned on the starboard side near the helm.
Carbon Fiber Rigging and Sailing Hardware
A defining characteristic of this model is its carbon fiber rigging. The boat features a signature black carbon fiber mast and sprit, rod rigging with PBO fibers, an adjustable backstay, outboard chain plates, and a tilting carbon fiber steering wheel. The carbon mast is both lightweight and strong, enhancing racing performance by reducing heel and hobby horsing, which also improves cruising comfort in challenging conditions. The mast is keel-stepped and paired with an adjustable PBO backstay, allowing for precise control over mast bend and mainsail shape. The carbon fiber steering wheel offers fingertip control and can be fixed upright or canted to either side via a foot pedal release. Fore and aft jib lead pullers, along with adjustable in-haulers, optimize the jib's angle of attack for improved upwind performance. For downwind sailing, a large asymmetrical spinnaker is deployed from a carbon fiber sprit housed within an integral bow tube, extending sail area forward to increase speed while maintaining manageable sail handling.
Performance Under Sail
During testing in steady 13 to 15 knot winds over smooth water, the First 35 Carbon Edition demonstrated commendable performance. Sailing upwind with the 108 percent genoa and mainsail trimmed, the boat achieved 6.4 knots at approximately 40 degrees true wind angle, benefiting from a 7 foot 5 inch deep keel that provided stability and lateral resistance. Heel angles ranged between 18 and 20 degrees, with light and balanced helm feedback. As the boat bore off to 60 degrees true wind angle, speed increased to 7.5 knots, and further eased sails at 80 degrees yielded 8 knots. At 100 degrees, the boat reached 8.4 knots. Deploying the large asymmetrical spinnaker at 120 degrees true wind angle produced a peak speed of 8.6 knots. Throughout these conditions, the helm remained balanced and responsive, and the boat tracked steadily. At broader angles, speed tapered slightly to 8.2 knots at 140 degrees with reduced heel to about 10 degrees, and further down to 7.3 knots at 160 degrees true wind angle, maintaining a comfortable and lively sailing experience.
Power and Maneuverability
The First 35 Carbon Edition is powered by a Yanmar 29 horsepower diesel engine, which provides responsive handling under power. The boat demonstrated excellent maneuverability, responding promptly to throttle and steering inputs in both forward and reverse directions. Docking in tight quarters and backing into slips in crosswinds was accomplished with ease and precision, reflecting the boat's well-balanced helm and efficient propulsion system.
Conclusion
The Beneteau First 35 Carbon Edition successfully integrates advanced carbon fiber technology and racing features with practical cruising amenities. Its thoughtful deck layout, responsive rigging, and balanced handling under sail and power make it a versatile choice for sailors seeking both competitive performance and comfortable weekend cruising. The boat’s performance metrics and ease of handling underscore its dual-purpose design intent, offering a compelling option for those who value speed without sacrificing usability.
Overview from around the web 2003 Beneteau First
Customers praise the 2003 Beneteau First for its excellent blend of performance and comfort
Many highlight its responsive handling and solid build quality, making it a favorite among both casual sailors and more experienced enthusiasts. The spacious interior and thoughtful layout receive positive remarks for maximizing comfort during extended trips. Overall, owners appreciate the boat’s versatility, reliability, and timeless design, which continue to make the Beneteau First a standout choice in its class.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 2003 Beneteau First is a popular model known for its blend of performance and comfort. Here are some of the key pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Performance-Oriented Design: The First series is designed with a focus on sailing performance, offering responsive handling and good speed potential.
Modern Styling: The 2003 model features contemporary lines and a sleek profile that appeals to sailors looking for a stylish boat.
Comfortable Interior: Despite its performance focus, the interior layout provides practical accommodations suitable for weekend cruising, including comfortable berths and a functional galley.
Build Quality: Beneteau is known for solid construction and use of quality materials, contributing to durability and longevity.
Easy Handling: The rig and sail plan are designed to be manageable by a small crew, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those looking to learn.
Cons
Limited Space: While comfortable for short trips, the interior space may feel cramped for extended cruising or larger groups.
Maintenance Costs: As with many performance-oriented sailboats, upkeep can be higher, especially if the boat has been actively raced or sailed hard.
Market Competition: The 2003 model faces strong competition from other performance cruisers in its size range, which may offer more interior volume or different sailing characteristics.
Resale Value: Depending on condition and local market, resale values can fluctuate, so it's important to assess the specific boat's maintenance history.
Made For
The 2003 Beneteau First is designed for sailors seeking a versatile and performance-oriented cruiser that excels both on coastal waters and in club racing. Ideal for those who want a responsive and agile boat with comfortable accommodations, it suits couples, small families, or experienced sailors who appreciate quality craftsmanship and a balance between speed and cruising comfort. Whether you're a weekend adventurer or a competitive racer, the Beneteau First 2003 offers an engaging sailing experience with style and reliability.
Finance your dream boat!
Finance your dream boat!
Be the first to know when similar boats hit the market
Get notified when new boats become available
Boats For Sale in California, United States Similar to the 2003 Beneteau First
Compare with similar boats and find the perfect one for you.
 2003 Beneteau First | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $55,550 | $52,500 | $47,100 | $64,000 | $73,000 | $79,000 |
| Alameda | Ventura | Coronado | Redondo Beach | Marina Del Rey | Monterey |
| 36' | 25' | 41' | 36' | 34' | 36' |
| 11' | - | - | - | - | - |
| - | Yanmar | Perkins | Volvo | Yanmar | Volvo |
| - | - | 50 hp | 29 hp | 29 hp | 28 hp |
| 1178 | 166 | 376 | 35 | 86 | 18 |
Other Beneteau boats for sale in California, United States
Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact Richard Boland Yachts about 2003 Beneteau First
1070 Marina Village Parkway Suite #107, Alameda, CA, 94501
Login with Google