1985 Beneteau First 305Sold
$14,000
Boat in Greenwich, RI 02818 US
Built in 1985
First 305
1 Engine (--)
30 feet
Gas
Fiberglass/Reinforced
1985 Beneteau First 305 - 31' Performance Cruiser.
Lightly Used | Upgraded Systems | Excellent Condition
This well-maintained 1985 Beneteau First 305 is a rare find-lightly used with thoughtful upgrades and long-term ownership care. A performance cruiser designed by Jean Berret and built by Beneteau France, the First 305 is known for its strong sailing characteristics, responsive tiller helm, and comfortable layout for both racing and coastal cruising.
This boat is on its third owner, has less than 1,000 engine hours, and is turnkey ready with many recent upgrades and maintenance highlights including a freshly painted bottom (2025) and a comprehensive electronics suite.
-Specifications
Length Overall (LOA): 31 ft
Beam: 10.5 ft
Draft: Approx. 5.75 ft (deep fin keel)
Displacement: ~8,000 lbs
Hull Material: Fiberglass
Engine: Inboard diesel (Volvo Penta, <1000 hours)
Fuel Capacity: ~17 gallons
Water Capacity: ~45 gallons
Berths: Sleeps 5-6
Keel Type: Fin keel with spade rudder
*Key Features & Upgrades
-Electronics & Navigation
Garmin 4 HD Radar (2016)
Garmin Chart Plotter (2015)
Depth Sounder
Wind System Display w/ Masthead Transducer
Auto Pilot (Tiller Mount)
Electronic Compass Display + Bulkhead Mount Compass
VHF Radio (25 watt)
-Rigging & Sails
Mainsail with cover
Spinnaker with bag
Fractional sloop rig
-Galley & Comfort Systems
CNG gimbaled range
6-gallon water heater
Pressure water system
Newport cabin lighting
Dual batteries (one new in 2024) with switch
Dual 10-amp battery charger
Maintenance & Additional Upgrades
Soda blasted and barrier coated (2013)
New starter and alternator (2016)
New drive hatch (2016)
New lens (2010)
New transducer (2017)
Bottom paint just completed (2025)
Why This Boat?
This Beneteau First 305 is ideal for sailors looking for a reliable and sporty cruiser that is already equipped with modern electronics and essential upgrades. It combines comfort, speed, and practicality, making it a fantastic value in the 30' sailboat category.
Price History
| Date | Event | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 8/29/25 | Price decreased | $14,000(-20.0%) |
| 7/12/25 | Initial price | $17,500 |
1985 Beneteau First 305 Video Tours
Overview from around the web 1985 Beneteau First 305
Customers appreciate the 1985 Beneteau First 305 for its classic design and solid performance
Many highlight its responsive handling and balanced sailing characteristics, making it enjoyable for both cruising and club racing. Owners often praise the spacious interior layout for a 30-foot boat, noting comfortable accommodations and practical use of space. The build quality and durability of the 1985 model receive positive remarks, with several users mentioning that, with proper maintenance, these boats remain reliable and seaworthy after decades. Some also appreciate the boat's sleek lines and timeless aesthetic, which continue to turn heads on the water. Overall, the Beneteau First 305 from 1985 is seen as a well-rounded sailboat that offers a rewarding sailing experience for enthusiasts.
The Biggest Pros and Cons
The 1985 Beneteau First 305 is a popular classic cruiser-racer that offers a blend of performance and comfort. Here are some of the pros and cons to consider:
Pros
Performance-Oriented Design: The First 305 has a sleek hull and efficient sail plan, making it responsive and enjoyable to sail, especially in moderate to strong winds.
Spacious Interior: For a 30-foot boat, it offers a well-laid-out interior with comfortable accommodations for a small family or crew, including a functional galley and ample storage.
Build Quality: Beneteau’s solid construction methods for this model provide good durability and seaworthiness.
Versatility: Suitable for both club racing and cruising, making it a flexible choice for sailors who want to do a bit of everything.
Good Resale Value: As a classic model with a strong reputation, it tends to hold its value well in the used boat market.
Cons
Aging Systems: Being a 1985 model, many boats will require updates or maintenance to electrical, plumbing, and rigging systems to ensure reliability.
Limited Headroom: While the interior is spacious for its size, taller sailors may find the cabin headroom somewhat restrictive.
Outdated Design Elements: Some interior fittings and hardware may feel dated compared to modern sailboats, which could require refurbishment or replacement.
Performance in Light Air: The boat may be less responsive in very light wind conditions compared to more modern designs optimized for light air sailing.
Maintenance: Older fiberglass and wood components might need extra attention to prevent issues like osmosis or wood rot.
Made For
The 1985 Beneteau First 305 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser-racer. It appeals to those who want a boat that performs well both on weekend racing circuits and comfortable coastal cruising. With its manageable size and thoughtful design, it suits small families, couples, or solo sailors looking for a responsive, easy-to-handle vessel that offers a balance of performance and comfort. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or progressing your skills, the First 305 provides an engaging sailing experience with ample onboard amenities for enjoyable time on the water.
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Meet the Broker
Address
Boat Location
Contact National Vehicle LLC about 1985 Beneteau First 305
12110 Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE, 68128
Contact National Vehicle LLC
12110 Port Grace Blvd, La Vista, NE, 68128
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