New Boat Preview: Beneteau First 30
The Beneteau First 30 is back, and it’s unlike any before it. Revived and reimagined in collaboration with Seascape, this latest evolution marks the birth of a new category: the planing cruiser. Designed by IMOCA and Class 40 naval architect Samuel Manuard and styled by Lorenzo Argento, the new 30-footer blends high-speed excitement with Beneteau’s trademark comfort and craftsmanship. Built for sailors who crave simplicity, speed, and adventure in equal measure, the First 30 delivers effortless handling, a cozy modern interior, and the unmistakable thrill of planing made easy.
Design & Construction
The First 30’s performance pedigree is clear the moment you step aboard. The hull, drawn by Manuard, who knows a thing or two about offshore rocketships, features a fine entry, broad beam carried aft, and twin rudders for stability under sail. Constructed with a fully cored vinylester laminate and vacuum-infused deck, the 30 achieves impressive stiffness and strength while keeping weight to just 6,700 pounds (3,040 kg). Structural engineering by Pure Design & Engineering, the same team behind cutting-edge raceboats, ensures efficiency without fragility.
Two cockpit configurations are available: a cruising version with a clean, open layout, and a racing version with traveler, fine-tune mainsheet, and adjustable jib systems. Both feature a German-style mainsheet setup that keeps control lines tidy and within easy reach. In the cruising layout, the mainsheet bridle and flush deck create a “barefoot-friendly” cockpit for relaxing underway or at anchor.
Underneath, a modern fin keel and high-aspect rudders keep handling light and precise. The boat is rated CE Category A, certified for offshore sailing, a testament to the balance of safety and performance that defines the First range.
Layout, Systems & Comfort
Belowdeck, the First 30 surprises with volume, light, and modern flair. Thanks to clever design by SITO and Beneteau’s Seascape division, the interior feels bright and inviting, with 6 feet of headroom, two private cabins, and a practical galley that includes a gimbaled stove, optional refrigerator, and foldable extension.
The forward cabin rivals that of the larger First 36, with a true double berth and generous storage. Aft, a cozy quarter cabin sleeps two, while amidships, the saloon seats four comfortably for meals or passage planning. A marine head with optional holding tank and magnetic doors lends a touch of refinement uncommon in this size range.
Sustainability was part of the design brief as well. Note the cork flooring, removable textile lockers, and modular furniture, all of which keep weight down while adding warmth and practicality.
Systems installations follow Beneteau’s latest production standards, including simplified access to plumbing and wiring runs, LED lighting, optional SEANAPPS connectivity, and minimal through-hulls for easy maintenance.
Safety, Handling & Performance
Planing once meant high effort, advanced skills, and strong breeze, but not anymore. The First 30 delivers the same rush with remarkable ease. With 60 square meters of upwind sail area and a hull designed to lift in 13-14 knots of wind, the boat accelerates smoothly and feels lively yet balanced.
The twin rudders offer surefooted grip even at high heel angles, while the broad transom provides stability and extra form buoyancy when surfing. Under power, a 14-hp diesel drives the boat efficiently and quietly, ideal for close-quarters maneuvering.
Most importantly, “fast is safe” here. The high stability, modern hull form, and responsive helm mean the First 30 remains under full control even when planing. Combined with solid build quality and category A certification, that makes this little speedster as trustworthy as it is thrilling.
Beneteau First 30 Specifications
| LOA | 30’8” (9.35 m) |
| Beam | 9’9” (2.99 m) |
| Draft (Std/Opt) | 5’6” (1.68 m) / 6’6” (1.98 m) |
| Displacement | 6,700 lbs (3,040 kg) |
| Engine | 14-hp diesel |
| Sail Area (upwind) | 646 sq. ft (60 m²) |
| Fuel Capacity | 10.5 gal (40 L) |
| Water Capacity | 26.4 gal (100 L) |
| Bridge Clearance | 48’3” (14.7 m) |
| CE Certification | A2 / B6 |
| Designer | Samuel Manuard |
| Styling | Lorenzo Argento |
| Builder | Beneteau & Seascape |
VIDEO
Get a closer look at the Beneteau First 30’s design, layout, rig details and performance in this preview video.
The Birth of the Planing Cruiser
Beneteau’s new First 30 introduces a bold new category: the planing cruiser. By pairing raceboat design with cruising comfort, the brand aims to make fast sailing fun and accessible again. The hull shape lifts easily in moderate breeze, giving sailors that addictive “surfing” sensation without the stress or complexity of traditional high-performance rigs.
Two Cockpits, Two Attitudes
The First 30’s dual-deck options reflect two sailing styles. Cruisers will love the clean, open cockpit with hidden mainsheet and full-width lounging space. Racers can opt for the traveler and fine-tune controls for precise trim and crew ergonomics. Either way, the setup keeps lines tidy and sailing intuitive.
Interior Innovation
Inside, the First 30 redefines small-boat comfort. Lightweight modular furniture, magnetic doors, and removable storage systems keep things flexible. The use of cork flooring and sustainable materials balances modern style with eco-minded practicality, proof that speed and simplicity don’t have to come at the expense of warmth or charm.
About the Builder
Founded in 1884 in Vendée, France, Beneteau has evolved from a small fishing boat workshop into one of the world’s most recognized names in recreational boating. With models ranging from performance racers to luxury cruisers, Beneteau continues to push the boundaries of design and technology. The partnership with Seascape, a Slovenian builder known for sporty, lightweight craft, has infused the First range with fresh energy, bringing raceboat excitement to sailors of every skill level.
Editor’s First Take
It’s rare to find a 30-footer that promises this much fun without asking for full-time crew or Olympian reflexes. The new First 30 feels like a breath of fresh air—a boat that’s simple to rig, easy to drive, and genuinely fast. The cockpit is clean and confidence-inspiring, the interior feels bright and purposeful, and the overall vibe is pure sailing joy. This is a boat that could lure both lapsed racers and new sailors back on the water, reminding them what made sailing feel magical in the first place. —CW
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