1988 Beneteau First 285 Boat in Saint Petersburg, FL 33701 US
Built in 1988
First 285
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28 feet
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Fiberglass/Reinforced
1988 Beneteau First 285
Hull # 85
Powered by a Yanmar 2GM20F (Rebuilt in 2023)
Very responsive and fun to sail. Perfect for Key's and Bahamas.
Sails:
- Sobstad battened main with reef points
- UK roller furling genoa
- UK Flasher (asymmetrical cruising spinnaker)
- Harken roller furling
- Whisker pole
Electronics & Mechanicals:
- Garmin 478
- Raymarine Wheel Autopilot
- Navisound Depth sounder
- Compass
- VHF radio and cockpit handset; extra handheld unit
- Cockpit table
Mechanicals & Additional Features:
- Yanmar 2GM20F (rebuilt in 2023)
- Two main self tailing winches
- Cabin top standard winch
- Adjustable outhaul, vang, & backstay
- Bimini; Wheel cover; Captain's seat cushion
- Swim ladder
- Automatic float switch bilge pump & manual bilge pump
- Dual water heater - electric dock power & engine heated
- Transom Shower
- Down-the-hatch wind scoop
- Windex wind vane with bird spike
- AGM house and starting batteries
- Shore power & solar power battery chargers with controller
- LED lights throughout
- Leather bound wheel w/ emergency tiller
- Pedestal compass and table
- 12V & USB power at steering pedestal
Interior Accommodations:
- 6'-2" headroom
- Sleeps 4
- Double V-berth forward
- Aft cabin with a double berth
Vessel Walkthrough:
Main salon has varnished teak bulkheads, port/starboard settee, centerline table with drop leaves, wood hull panels & ceiling
The galley to port includes island sink, electric pump hot & cold fresh water, two burner propane stove with gas detector/alarm, ice box
Chart table with VHF radio is opposite galley to starboard
Aft to starboard is the enclosed head with marine toilet, sink, vanity, mirror
3 cabin storage lockers; numerous under berth & settee storage areas
large cockpit storage locker. Fans throughout entire salon.
Construction:
· Hull is solid fiberglass (not cored)
· Engine Model: Yanmar 2GM20F
· 20 gal water, 10 gal holding, 10 gal fuel
**Preliminary listing with additional Details & Photos to follow***
Contact us today for additional details, to schedule your personal inspection or video walkthrough.
The Beneteau First 285 is a French sailboat designed by Group Finot and built by Beneteau in France and the United States. It's a small recreational keelboat, known for its solid build quality and comfortable accommodations, making it suitable for both weekend getaways and club racing. The First 285 is a racer/cruiser with a wing keel, which gives it a shallow draft, allowing it to access more shallow waters.
Key Features:
Design: Designed by Group Finot.
Build: Predominantly fiberglass construction with wood trim.
Rig: Fractional sloop rig with internal halyards.
Keel: Shoal draft wing keel with spade rudder, offering good shallow water access and performance.
Engine: Usually powered by a Volvo Penta diesel engine.
Accommodations: Features a comfortable interior with sleeping for six, a galley, and head.
Electronics: Often equipped with electronic navigation and communication equipment, including chartplotters, autopilots, VHF radios, and more.
Sails: Typically comes with a main, jib, and spinnaker.
Additional Features: May include features like a dodger, bimini, and a cockpit table for added comfort and protection.
Versatility:
The First 285 is a versatile sailboat, suitable for various sailing activities, including:
Cruising:
Its comfortable interior and good sailing characteristics make it suitable for overnight cruising and coastal exploration.
Racing:
The boat's design and performance qualities make it suitable for club racing and other competitive sailing events.
Weekend Getaways:
Its relatively small size and manageable sail plan make it easy to handle for weekend trips.
Water Sports:
The "sugar-scoop" transom and swim ladder provide easy access for water sports activities.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5/26/26 | Initial price | $15,000 |
1988 Beneteau First 285 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1988 Beneteau First 285
Customers who have owned or sailed the 1988 Beneteau First 285 often praise its excellent sailing performance and sturdy construction
Many appreciate the boat's responsive handling, which makes it a joy to sail in various conditions, from light breezes to stronger winds. Owners frequently commend the interior layout, highlighting the practical use of space, comfortable accommodations, and ample storage. The two-cabin design allows for a cozy yet functional living area, making it suitable for both day sailing and longer voyages. The quality of craftsmanship is another point of admiration, with many noting that the boat has held up well over the years, showcasing Beneteau's reputation for creating durable vessels. Overall, feedback emphasizes that the Beneteau First 285 offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and reliability, making it a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts looking for a compact yet capable cruiser.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The Beneteau First 285, first launched in 1988, is a beloved sailboat known for its balance of performance and comfort. Below are some pros and cons of this model:
Pros
Performance: The First 285 features a well-balanced hull design that provides excellent sailing performance, particularly in various wind conditions. Its moderate displacement and fin keel enhance stability and maneuverability.
Spacious Interior: Despite its compact size, the interior is thoughtfully designed to maximize space. It typically includes a comfortable salon, a galley, and sleeping accommodations for four, making it suitable for weekend cruising or longer trips.
Build Quality: Beneteau is known for its attention to detail and quality construction. The First 285 is no exception, featuring robust materials and a strong build that lends itself to longevity and durability.
Ease of Handling: Designed for both experienced sailors and novices, the layout and sail controls are accessible, making it easier to manage single-handed or short-handed sailing.
Community and Parts Availability: Being a popular model, there is a robust community of owners and resources for parts and advice, which can be a significant advantage for maintenance and upgrades.
Cons
Space Limitations: While the interior is well-designed, it can feel a bit cramped for those used to larger cruising yachts, especially when accommodating more than four people.
Age Considerations: As a vessel from 1988, older models may require more maintenance and upgrades than newer counterparts, which can result in additional costs for owners.
Limited Storage: Storage space is somewhat limited, especially for cruising gear and supplies. This can be a drawback for those planning longer voyages or trips with additional passengers.
Not the Best for Racing: While it performs admirably for cruising, serious racers may find that the First 285 falls short compared to more modern, dedicated racing designs.
Older Technology: Features and systems on older models may not reflect the advances in marine technology available today. Upgrades may be necessary for navigation and safety equipment.
Made For
The 1988 Beneteau First 285 is designed for sailing enthusiasts who appreciate the blend of performance and comfort. Ideal for both newcomers and experienced sailors, this model is especially suited for those who enjoy coastal cruising and weekend adventures. The compact size makes it manageable for solo sailors or couples, while the spacious interior offers comfort for small families or groups of friends. With its sporty hull design and responsive handling, the First 285 will appeal to those looking to engage in competitive racing as well as leisurely outings. It's a great choice for individuals who relish the thrill of sailing, yet need a cozy space to relax after an exhilarating day on the water. Its easy-to-sail nature and reliable construction make it perfect for adventurers who seek both excitement and tranquility on the open sea.
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| $15,000 | $14,999 | $26,900 | $29,990 | $33,999 | $52,200 |
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