January 2025 is set to be a pivotal moment in the long history of the BENETEAU First sailing yacht with the launch of the new First 30, the goal of which is to create a new category: the planing cruiser. This innovative model promises to give all sailors the thrill of planing while delivering top-level performance. 

Updating a Legacy

The First 30 follows in the footsteps of the popular model launched in 1977, which shaped the history of BENETEAU. The brand worked with Seascape for this new version, assembling a team of world-class designers and engineers: Samuel Manuard for the naval architecture and Lorenzo Argento for the design. This bold new project demonstrates BENETEAU’s commitment to innovation and is particularly meaningful as the brand celebrates its 140th anniversary. 

Performance and Comfort: Safe, Smooth Sailing

The First 30 is 10.33 meters long and has a displacement of 3,150 kg, meaning that even small crews can enjoy quick easy planing. 

Planing is that magical moment when, at full speed, your yacht’s hull lifts and is in limited contact with the water, minimizing friction and creating a smooth, gliding sensation. You feel the thrill of the boat accelerating, and every maneuver is smoother and more responsive. It is this adrenalin rush that promises unique unforgettable moments at sea! 

A clear cockpit and simple rigging make navigation fun and intuitive, even at high speeds. Additional options for racers to optimize performance.

Designed for effortless sailing, the First 30 is perfect for cruising and for racing. By choosing the layout – cruising or racing – it can be perfectly matched to the needs of each skipper. The cruising version features large winches and ergonomic controls to simplify handling, while the racing version includes a mainsail traveler for more accurate trimming.

A Practical, User-Friendly Interior for Worry-Free Cruising

Below deck, the boat has a capacity of 4 people divided between two cabins. The First 30 is the perfect boat for cruising with family or friends. Cruising is truly enjoyable, with a comfortable saloon, fully-fitted galley, and smart storage spaces. 

With the Premium Pack option, you have additional features and the interior is more stylish with top-quality upholstery, extra lounge backrests, a chopping board, a choice of colors and materials, and mood lighting.

Preliminary Measurements:

• Mainsail: 304 sq ft
• Jib: 321 sq ft
• Masthead gennaker: 1,055 ft sq ft
• Fractional gennaker: 926 ft sq ft
• EC Certification: A2 / B6
• Naval architect: Samuel MANUARD
• Design: Lorenzo ARGENTO
• Structural Engineering: Pure Design & Engineering
• Interior design: Sito
• Concept and R&D: BENETEAU & Seascape

With the new First 30, BENETEAU once again proves its ability to push back the boundaries of innovation while remaining true to its heritage. Designed to become a true benchmark, the First 30 will make its world premiere at the Düsseldorf 2025 boat show.