First 38

Main

Appendages
Keel : fin without bulb
Category
Cruiser-racer sailboat
Construction
GRP (glass reinforced polyester): - Hull: Single skin fiberglass polyester - Deck: Sandwich balsa fiberglass polyester
Country
France
First built hull
1982
Former French navigation category
1
Helm
Single helm wheel
Hull type
Monohull
Last built hull
1985
Model
First 38
Number of hulls built
566
Rudder
Single spade rudder
Sailboat builder
Bénéteau
Sailboat designer
Berret Racoupeau Yachts Design
Sailboat range
First
Standard public price ex. VAT (indicative only)
N/A €
Trailerable
No
Unsinkable
No
Version
Deep draft

Dimensions

Ballast weight
3000.0
Beam
3.9
Draft
2.1
French customs tonnage
14.00 Tx
Hull length
11.75
Light displacement (MLC)
7100.0
Mast height from DWL
16.0
Overall length
12.25
Waterline length
10.32

Sails

Downwind sail area
139.0
Genoa area
48.5
Jib area
28.0
Mainsail area
30.0
Mast configuration
Keel stepped mast
Number of levels of spreaders
2
Rigging type
Sloop Marconi masthead
Rotating spars
No
Spars construction
Aluminum spars
Spreaders angle
0 °
Standing rigging
1x19 strand wire
Stormjib area
7.69
Symmetric spinnaker area
109.0
Upwind sail area
78.5

Engine

Engine(s)
1 inboard engine
Engine(s) power
40.0
Engine(s) power peak
60.0
Fuel tank capacity
130.0
Fuel type
Diesel

Performance

Ballast ratio
42.0
Critical hull speed
7.8
Displacement-length ratio (DLR)
183.0
Downwind sail area to displacement
37.63
Upwind sail area to displacement
21.25

Accomodation

Berth(s)
6
Berth(s) max
10
Cabin(s)
3
Cockpit
Closed aft cockpit
Freshwater tank capacity
400
Head(s)
2
Maximum headroom
1.93
The First 38 is a sailing boat that was designed and built by the French yacht manufacturer, Beneteau. It is part of the First series, which is known for its performance-oriented sailboats. The First 38 was first introduced in the late 1980s and has since gained popularity among sailors for its speed, handling, and comfortable cruising capabilities.

The boat has a length overall (LOA) of approximately 38 feet and a beam of around 12 feet, providing a spacious and comfortable interior. It features a sleek and modern design with a deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, allowing for excellent maneuverability and stability.

The First 38 is typically equipped with a sloop rig, consisting of a large mainsail and a genoa or jib. This sail plan, combined with its lightweight construction, allows the boat to achieve impressive speeds and perform well in various wind conditions. It is often favored by sailors who enjoy competitive racing or fast cruising.

Inside, the First 38 offers a well-designed and functional layout. It typically has a spacious saloon with a dining area, a fully equipped galley, and multiple cabins that can accommodate a small crew or family. The boat also features a head (bathroom) with a shower and ample storage space for extended trips.

Overall, the First 38 is a versatile and reliable sailing boat that offers a balance between performance and comfort. Its combination of speed, handling, and comfortable living space makes it a popular choice for both racing and cruising enthusiasts.

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