The First 24 is a sailing boat designed and manufactured by the French company Beneteau. It is a small, trailerable sailboat that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and ease of use.
The First 24 has a length overall of 7.99 meters (26.2 feet) and a beam of 2.75 meters (9 feet). It features a modern and sleek design with a plumb bow, a wide stern, and a fixed keel. The boat has a displacement of 1,300 kilograms (2,866 pounds) and a ballast of 450 kilograms (992 pounds), which provides stability and helps in maintaining a good sailing performance.
The cockpit of the First 24 is spacious and well-designed, providing ample seating for the crew. It features a tiller steering system, allowing for precise control and maneuverability. The boat also has a retractable carbon bowsprit, which enables the use of a gennaker or an asymmetric spinnaker for downwind sailing.
The interior of the First 24 is compact but functional. It can accommodate up to four people with a double berth in the bow and two single berths in the main cabin. The boat also has a small galley area with a sink and a portable stove, as well as a marine toilet.
In terms of performance, the First 24 is designed to be fast and responsive. It has a high aspect ratio rig with a large mainsail and a small jib, allowing for easy handling and good upwind performance. The boat is also equipped with a lifting keel, which can be raised or lowered depending on the sailing conditions, enabling access to shallow waters.
Overall, the First 24 is a versatile and well-built sailing boat that is suitable for both racing and cruising. Its compact size and trailerability make it easy to transport and launch, allowing for exploration of various sailing areas.