Beneteau
First 30
The Beneteau First 30 (the Juan Kouyoumdjian design launched in 2010) was a radical attempt to bring offshore raceboat thinking to the production market. With its aggressive chines, twin rudders, and a T-bulb keel, it looks and behaves more like a Class 40 than a traditional 30-foot cruiser. Designed to reward active trimming and tactical sailing, it is positioned for the performance enthusiast who values speed and handling over interior volume. While it never reached the sales volumes of its predecessor, it remains a cult classic for those who want a truly 'fast' boat.
Surveyors must pay particular attention to the unique B&R-style rig, which lacks a backstay. This puts enormous tension on the shrouds and the chainplate attachments; any signs of stress or movement in the hull-deck joint near the chainplates is a red flag. The T-bulb keel is a magnet for kelp and lobster pots; check for any impact damage or stress at the keel-to-hull interface. The twin rudders should be checked for alignment; even a slight toe-in or toe-out will create significant drag and a noticeable vibration through the tiller.
Build quality is modern and focused on weight distribution, with a vacuum-infused hull and a well-engineered structural grid. The interior is contemporary but minimalist, with limited storage for long-term cruising. On the brokerage market, the First 30 JK is a niche asset; it appeals to a specific buyer who understands its performance potential and is willing to accept the compromises in cruising comfort. It is a boat that 'settles' on its chine and transforms into a powerhouse once the breeze gets over 12 knots.
At a glance
Quick facts
- Production
- 1977–1981
- LOA
- 8.95 m
- Beam
- 2.86 m
- Model
- First 30
Key takeaways
- Best for: performance-conscious coastal cruisers and club racers
- Common issue: deck core moisture around hardware and rigging age
- Typical price: see FairHelm Market Index — strong performance resale
Expert verdict
FairHelm rating: 7.7/10 — A legendary name in the First range; known for its fast hull and competitive racing history. Surveyors watch for deck core moisture around hardware and general standing rigging age.
Vadim Nareyko, FairHelm Editorial · Last reviewed: 2026-07-12
Technical data
- Length overall (LOA)
- 8.95 m
- Beam
- 2.86 m
- Production years
- 1977–1981
Typical problems
Buyer FAQ
- Why does the First 30 have no backstay?
The rig uses swept-back spreaders and a wide shroud base (B&R style) to support the mast, allowing for a large square-top mainsail that provides massive power.
- How does the T-bulb keel affect sailing?
It lowers the center of gravity significantly, providing high stability, but its shape makes it prone to snagging underwater debris.
- Is it a good boat for a novice?
No, it is a demanding boat that requires active trimming and a good understanding of rig tension. It is better suited for experienced sailors.
- Can the First 30 be used for weekend cruising?
Yes, it has two cabins and a functional galley, but the interior space is tighter than a comparable Oceanis model.
- What is the best sail setup for this boat?
A high-quality laminate mainsail and a Code Zero for light-air reaching are essential to get the most out of the Juan K hull.
Design History
First 30 emerged when Scandinavian and North Sea yards were scaling reliable GRP cruising platforms for owner crews rather than charter fleets. French production shaped the hull lines and interior volume for predictable manners in Baltic chop and North Sea swell. Production ran from 1980 to 1995; registry and owner-club sources cite approximately ~320–1040 completed hulls.
Beneteau positioned the First 30 for coastal and offshore use in the 1980–1995 production window — explaining mixed maintenance histories on the secondary market today.
Mid-production changes were mostly interior trim, engine options, and deck hardware rather than fundamental hull revisions. That means survey condition, winter storage history, and rigging invoices usually matter more than the model year printed on the brochure. When you evaluate a First 30 on Blocket, treat the maintenance story as part of the specification — not a footnote after the asking price.
Annual Ownership Costs
| Cost item | Low (SEK) | High (SEK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marina berth | 18,000 | 38,000 | 9.2 m class, Stockholm/Gothenburg |
| Insurance | 8 000 | 22 000 | Agreed value and cruising area |
| Haul-out + winter | 12 000 | 28 000 | Yard package varies by region |
| Antifouling + hull care | 6 000 | 16 000 | Materials and labour |
| Engine / drivetrain | 5 000 | 16 000 | Service intervals and saildrive |
| Rigging reserve | 7 000 | 20 000 | Standing rigging age |
| Deck / structural reserve | 6 000 | 22 000 | Bedding, moisture follow-up |
| Total annual | 62 000 | 172 000 | Excludes major refit years |
Annual ownership for First 30 is predictable when service records are complete. Berth, storage, and insurance dominate fixed costs in Sweden. The largest variables are rigging replacement timing and any survey-led deck or drivetrain work triggered after purchase. Keep a separate technical reserve so routine season costs stay stable — especially on Blocket boats marketed as "ready to sail" without invoices.
Pre-Purchase Survey Checklist
Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist: First 30
Hull, Keel and Underwater Body
- Moisture-map the underwater hull; document osmosis or barrier-coat history on First 30 GRP of this era.
- Inspect keel-to-hull joint, keel bolts (if external iron), and backing structure for movement or recurring fairing cracks.
- Check rudder bearings and steering linkage under load during sea trial.
Deck and Hardware
- Test bedding at stanchions, tracks, and winches; open nearby interior access if damp stains appear.
- Inspect hatches and portlights for seal compression and core moisture at corners.
- Verify chainplate areas internally for rust staining or soft laminate.
Rig and Sail Systems
- Confirm standing rigging age with invoices; treat unknown age as near-term replacement on club-used hulls.
- Inspect mast step, spreaders, and terminals for corrosion or fatigue marks.
- Operate furling and reefing systems under realistic load.
Machinery and Systems
- Review engine and saildrive service including cooling, exhaust elbow, and mounts.
- Audit batteries, charging, and owner-added electrical work for safe fusing.
- Check tanks, bilges, and hoses for age-related seepage.