How does the First 35 compare to the older First 36.7?

The First 35 is a more modern, wider design with a T-keel and twin rudders (or a very deep single spade), offering better stability and downwind performance.

Is the T-keel a problem for cruising?

It provides excellent performance, but like all T-keels, it can snag weeds and lobster pots, and its depth (2.20m standard) may limit access to some shallow harbors.

Does it have an in-mast furling option?

Most First 35s were delivered with a standard slab-reefing mainsail to maximize performance, though some cruising-oriented versions exist.

What engine does it typically have?

It is usually fitted with a Yanmar 3YM30 (29hp) saildrive, which provides reliable and quiet power.

Can I sail the First 35 shorthanded?

Yes, it is well-balanced, but its large sail area and high-performance rig mean it rewards having an active crew or a very good autopilot.

Expert-reviewed · Based on owner reports · Updated weekly · FairHelm surveyor network

Beneteau

First 35

Name: First 35
Brand: Beneteau

The Beneteau First 35 (the 2009 Farr Yacht Design iteration) was created to dominate the IRC racing circuit while providing a high-quality, contemporary interior for cruising. Positioned as a direct competitor to the J/109 and Archambault 35, it features a low-COCG T-keel, a large open cockpit, and a sophisticated rig. It is the definitive 'racer-cruiser' of the post-recession era, offering a level of sailing performance that is several steps above the standard production models of its size.

From a survey perspective, the keel attachment is a primary area of concern. The deep T-keel puts significant stress on the hull structure, so the internal grid and the keel bolts should be inspected for any signs of movement or stress fractures. The rudder bearings are high-performance units and should be checked for play or friction. The interior veneers on the First 35 were sometimes prone to 'milkiness' or bubbling in high-moisture areas due to factory finish issues in early production runs. Surveyors should also check the deck core for any moisture ingress around the high-load deck hardware, such as the large mainsheet traveler.

Build quality is high, with a focus on weight saving and structural rigidity. The infused hull and well-thought-out engineering make it a very stiff and responsive boat. The interior by Nauta Design is modern and bright, with a clever use of space that makes it surprisingly comfortable for family cruising. The First 35 is a highly liquid asset for performance-oriented buyers; it remains a sought-after model for those who want to win on the racetrack without living in a 'carbon cave' below deck.

At a glance

Quick facts

Production: 2009–2016
LOA: 10.85 m
Beam: 3.64 m
Model: First 35

Key takeaways

Best for: serious club racing and fast family cruising
Common issue: rod rigging age and sail inventory condition
Typical price: see FairHelm Market Index — premium performance resale

Expert verdict

FairHelm rating: 8.1/10 — Modern performance cruiser from the Farr era; features a very fast hull and a bright, functional interior. Key survey areas are the rod rigging age and the overall condition of the sail inventory.

Vadim Nareyko, FairHelm Editorial · Last reviewed: 2026-07-12

Technical data

Length overall (LOA): 10.85 m
Beam: 3.64 m
Production years: 2009–2016

Typical problems

Buyer FAQ

How does the First 35 compare to the older First 36.7?: The First 35 is a more modern, wider design with a T-keel and twin rudders (or a very deep single spade), offering better stability and downwind performance.
Is the T-keel a problem for cruising?: It provides excellent performance, but like all T-keels, it can snag weeds and lobster pots, and its depth (2.20m standard) may limit access to some shallow harbors.
Does it have an in-mast furling option?: Most First 35s were delivered with a standard slab-reefing mainsail to maximize performance, though some cruising-oriented versions exist.
What engine does it typically have?: It is usually fitted with a Yanmar 3YM30 (29hp) saildrive, which provides reliable and quiet power.
Can I sail the First 35 shorthanded?: Yes, it is well-balanced, but its large sail area and high-performance rig mean it rewards having an active crew or a very good autopilot.

Design History

First 35 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 2005 to 2012; registry and owner-club sources cite approximately ~440–710 completed hulls.

Beneteau positioned the First 35 for coastal and offshore use in the 2005–2012 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 35 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	22,000	48,000	10.7 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 35 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 35

Hull, Keel and Underwater Body

Moisture-map the underwater hull; document osmosis or barrier-coat history on First 35 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.