• Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat deck with blue covers and ropes in marina. - 1The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat deck with blue covers and ropes in marina. - 1
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden deck and steering wheel. - 2The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden deck and steering wheel. - 2
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit view of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat docked in marina. - 3The Image of Cockpit view of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat docked in marina. - 3
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and steering wheel. - 4The Image of Cockpit of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and steering wheel. - 4
  • Slide: The Image of Stern view of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with lifesaving equipment and wooden deck. - 5The Image of Stern view of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with lifesaving equipment and wooden deck. - 5
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with navigation instruments and compass. - 6The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with navigation instruments and compass. - 6
  • Slide: The Image of Steering wheel of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden deck details. - 7The Image of Steering wheel of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden deck details. - 7
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with gauges and rusted handle. - 8The Image of Control panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with gauges and rusted handle. - 8
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and navigation display. - 9The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and navigation display. - 9
  • Slide: The Image of Raymarine depth gauge on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat dashboard. - 10The Image of Raymarine depth gauge on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat dashboard. - 10
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with Raymarine display. - 11The Image of Control panel on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with Raymarine display. - 11
  • Slide: The Image of Compass on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, wooden deck background. - 12The Image of Compass on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, wooden deck background. - 12
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with Yanmar engine gauges. - 13The Image of Control panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with Yanmar engine gauges. - 13
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with navigation instruments and compass. - 14The Image of Cockpit of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with navigation instruments and compass. - 14
  • Slide: The Image of Cockpit view of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat docked at a marina. - 15The Image of Cockpit view of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat docked at a marina. - 15
  • Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat cockpit with ropes and wooden deck in marina. - 16The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat cockpit with ropes and wooden deck in marina. - 16
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and cozy seating area. - 17The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and cozy seating area. - 17
  • Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht kitchen with stove, sink, and wooden cabinetry. - 18The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht kitchen with stove, sink, and wooden cabinetry. - 18
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and navigation equipment. - 19The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and navigation equipment. - 19
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wood finish and cozy seating area. - 20The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wood finish and cozy seating area. - 20
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with kitchen and seating area. - 21The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with kitchen and seating area. - 21
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue sofa and wooden cabinetry. - 22The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue sofa and wooden cabinetry. - 22
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with cozy seating and wooden finishes. - 23The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with cozy seating and wooden finishes. - 23
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wood paneling and blue seating. - 24The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wood paneling and blue seating. - 24
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and seating area. - 25The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden cabinetry and seating area. - 25
  • Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht bathroom with wooden cabinetry and compact design. - 26The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht bathroom with wooden cabinetry and compact design. - 26
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and a white appliance. - 27The Image of Interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden flooring and a white appliance. - 27
  • Slide: The Image of Navigation station inside a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring wooden desk and blue cushioned seat. - 28The Image of Navigation station inside a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring wooden desk and blue cushioned seat. - 28
  • Slide: The Image of Navigation station inside a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring control panels and seating. - 29The Image of Navigation station inside a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring control panels and seating. - 29
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel on a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring Xantrex and Blue Sea Systems. - 30The Image of Control panel on a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring Xantrex and Blue Sea Systems. - 30
  • Slide: The Image of Interior of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and nautical equipment. - 31The Image of Interior of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with wooden finish and nautical equipment. - 31
  • Slide: The Image of Electrical panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring AC power controls. - 32The Image of Electrical panel of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring AC power controls. - 32
  • Slide: The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring DC and AC power centers. - 33The Image of Electrical control panel on a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring DC and AC power centers. - 33
  • Slide: The Image of VHF radio on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring Standard Horizon Matrix AIS+ GX2150. - 34The Image of VHF radio on 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring Standard Horizon Matrix AIS+ GX2150. - 34
  • Slide: The Image of Control panel inside 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring radio and navigation equipment. - 35The Image of Control panel inside 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring radio and navigation equipment. - 35
  • Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 cabin interior with wooden finish and storage area. - 36The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 cabin interior with wooden finish and storage area. - 36
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components. - 37The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, showcasing mechanical components. - 37
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring mechanical components and wiring. - 38The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, featuring mechanical components and wiring. - 38
  • Slide: The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, showing wiring and components. - 39The Image of Engine compartment of a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat, showing wiring and components. - 39
  • Slide: The Image of Interior cabin of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue cushions. - 40The Image of Interior cabin of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue cushions. - 40
  • Slide: The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht bathroom with wooden cabinetry and stainless steel sink. - 41The Image of 1985 Beneteau First 38 yacht bathroom with wooden cabinetry and stainless steel sink. - 41
  • Slide: The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue bedding. - 42The Image of Cozy cabin interior of 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with blue bedding. - 42
  • Slide: The Image of Storage area in a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with yellow fuel containers. - 43The Image of Storage area in a 1985 Beneteau First 38 sailboat with yellow fuel containers. - 43
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1985 Beneteau First 38

$39,900

Used

Boat in Long Beach, CA 90803 US

builtBuilt in 1985
Year the boat was built
model

First 38

Boat model
engine

1 Engine (Yanmar)

Engine type and count
length

38 feet

Overall boat length
fuel

Diesel

Fuel type
material

Fiberglass/Reinforced

Hull material

New Yanmar Diesel Engine Installed in 2025 with 5 Year Yanmar Warranty

Introducing the Beneteau First 38, a remarkable Racer/Cruiser from 1985, known for its sleek design and impressive performance. This 38-foot monohull is crafted from durable fiberglass, ensuring both strength and stability on the water. The vessel is designed for exhilarating sailing, boasting a cruising speed of 8 knots, making it an ideal choice for both racing enthusiasts and leisurely cruisers. The First 38 features a well-appointed head, providing essential amenities for comfort during your journeys. Its thoughtful layout and classic design elements enhance the overall sailing experience. With its elegant lines and reliable construction, this boat is perfect for those seeking adventure on the open sea or a relaxing day on the water. Experience the thrill of sailing with the Beneteau First 38, a true Southern California recreational vessel.

Additional Items

  • Starlink
  • BBQ
  • Solar (portable)
  • Hydraulic Backstay
  • Gusher Manual Pump
  • Aft seating large storage lockers
  • Man overboard sling
  • Deck Winches : Mains 2 Barient 28+ Self tailing and (2) Lewmar 46 (Aft)
  • Upper Cabin Winches : 4-Lewmar 40 self tailing Winches
Nominal Length
38ft
Length Overall
38ft
Beam
12.75ft
Max Draft
4.92ft
Displacement
15655lb
Ballast
6500lb
Cruising Speed
8kn
Heads
1
Fuel Tanks
35gal
Holding Tanks
18gal
Electrical Circuit
12v
Hull Material
fiberglass
Hull Shape
monohull
Engine 1
Engine Make
Yanmar
Engine Model
3JH40
Total Power
39.43hp
Engine Hours
91
Engine Type
inboard
Fuel Type
diesel
Engine Year
2025
Drive Type
direct
Propeller Type
2-blade
Propeller Material
bronze
Teak Cockpit
✓
Solar Panel
✓
Cockpit Table
✓
Swimming Ladder
✓
Hot Water
✓
Cockpit Speakers
✓
Flat Screen Tv
✓
Mainsail Cover
✓
Shore Power Inlet
✓
Steering Wheel
✓
Disclaimer

The Company offers the details of this vessel in good faith but cannot guarantee or warrant the accuracy of this information nor warrant the condition of the vessel. A buyer should instruct his agents, or his surveyors, to investigate such details as the buyer desires validated. This vessel is offered subject to prior sale, price change, or withdrawal without notice.

Sail Inventory
  • Fairly New Black Ulman #1 Racing Sail (Huge) In Great Shape
  • #2 Yellow with Yellow Strips of Kevlar going across it
  • Older Black #3 Racing Sail-Used in Strong Winds
  • Dacron #1 with Yellow Thread periodically
  • Mainsail is Fairly New and in Great Shape

Price History

DateEventPrice
3/31/26Initial price$39,900

1985 Beneteau First 38 Video Tours

Overview from around the web 1985 Beneteau First 38

Customers praising the 1985 Beneteau First 38 often highlight its excellent blend of performance and comfort

Many appreciate its responsive handling and solid build quality, making it a reliable choice for both cruising and racing. Owners frequently mention the spacious and well-designed interior, which offers ample living space for extended voyages. The boat’s classic yet timeless design continues to attract sailors who value a vessel that performs well while maintaining elegance. Overall, the 1985 Beneteau First 38 is regarded as a versatile and enduring sailboat that delivers an enjoyable sailing experience.

The Biggest Pros and Cons

The 1985 Beneteau First 38 is a classic cruiser-racer sailboat that has earned a solid reputation over the years. Here’s an overview of its pros and cons:

Pros

Performance-Oriented Design: The First 38 offers a good balance between cruising comfort and racing performance, thanks to its sleek hull and efficient sail plan.

Spacious Interior: For a 38-foot boat, it provides a surprisingly roomy and well-laid-out interior, making it comfortable for extended cruising.

Solid Construction: Built with quality materials and craftsmanship typical of Beneteau during the mid-1980s, it offers durability and reliability.

Good Handling: The boat is known for responsive handling and stability, making it enjoyable to sail in a variety of conditions.

Classic Styling: Its timeless design appeals to sailors who appreciate traditional aesthetics combined with practical functionality.

Cons

Older Systems: Being a 1985 model, some mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems may be outdated and potentially require upgrades or maintenance.

Limited Headroom: While spacious, the cabin headroom may feel somewhat restricted compared to more modern designs in the same size range.

Maintenance Requirements: Older fiberglass boats like the First 38 may need more regular upkeep to address issues such as gelcoat wear or deck hardware aging.

Less Modern Amenities: Compared to contemporary cruisers, the onboard amenities and layout might feel basic or less optimized for comfort.

Availability of Parts: Some specific parts or equipment unique to this model may be harder to source due to its age.

Made For

The 1985 Beneteau First 38 is ideal for sailors seeking a versatile and reliable cruiser-racer. It suits those who want a boat capable of comfortable coastal cruising while still delivering strong performance for club racing or weekend regattas. Its blend of speed, handling, and spacious interior makes it perfect for couples or small families looking to enjoy both competitive sailing and relaxed cruising adventures.

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1985 Beneteau First 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$452.85/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 39,900
OR
%

Finance your dream boat!

Use our boat payment calculator to estimate monthly payments for 1985 Beneteau First 38. Enter your down payment, choose a loan term, and adjust the interest rate to see an instant payment estimate — ideal if you're calculating boat payments before you enquire. Wondering how much does a Racer/Cruiser cost in today's market, or how much does a Beneteau cost for similar models? This boat financing calculator helps you compare scenarios in seconds, whether you're considering used boat financing or a new purchase.
Monthly payment
$452.85/mo
$
$
Loan amount$ 39,900
OR
%

Contact Seacoast Yachts – Long Beach

231 N. Marina Drive, Long Beach, CA, 90803

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Long Beach, CA 90803

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Contact Seacoast Yachts – Long Beach about 1985 Beneteau First 38

231 N. Marina Drive, Long Beach, CA, 90803

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Seacoast Yachts – Long Beach at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Contact Seacoast Yachts – Long Beach

231 N. Marina Drive, Long Beach, CA, 90803

By checking this box, I consent to receive recurring marketing text messages, phone calls, and emails from Seacoast Yachts – Long Beach at the number and email provided, including messages sent using an autodialer or prerecorded voice. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out or HELP for assistance. Consent is not a condition of purchase. We'll also send helpful email updates about your boat search. You can unsubscribe whenever you like. See Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

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