First 305

[RS123]

I am currently considering the purchase of a 1986 First 305 as my first boat. I will be mooring the boat in a drying area and as such she has a lifting keel.

Can anyone comment on the First 305 in general and, if possible, on the lifting keel version in particular?

She will be used for pottering and following the races round to begin with, building up to joining in the races and some more determined cruising!

Thanks

 

[billmacfarlane]

One of my favourite Beneteaus. I'd check very carefully whether the lifting keel/twin rudder version is designed to take the ground every day. My understanding of it was that that version was designed to take an occasional grounding. It'll probably be OK if you rest in mud but I'd be cautious if the mooring is on sand. Lovely boat with a good cockpit and practical interior though the twin rudders reduce some of the feel of the helm.

 

[Guest]

Sailing Today (I think) has the 305 as it's secondhand feature this month.

Remember looking at one a long time ago on the South Coast (Escapade... seen it several times since out & about, in fact saw her racing in Cowes week 02). The article likes them a fair old amount, though it refers to the conventional keel & single rudder version.

Nice boat.