BeneteauFirst 38 (1983)

Classic Space and Performance

Designed by Jean Berret, the BeneteauFirst 38 is a recognized icon in the classic performance cruiser segment. This sailboat combines sporty nautical qualities—thanks to its efficient masthead rig and deep keel—with the comfort of a large family yacht. Its practical layout featuring three double cabins and two heads (one of which has been converted into storage) is particularly sought after in this length category. With a beam of nearly 4 meters, the yacht offers a spacious saloon with remarkable living and storage space. Built at a time when Beneteau was laminating its hulls very robustly, this rigid boat provides a stable and reliable platform for offshore sailing.

Major Technical Upgrades and Recent Renovations

This particular example is in good overall technical condition thanks to several significant and costly structural renovations. While many vessels from these construction years still have the old original Perkins engine, this boat was equipped in 2015 with a reliable Volvo Penta D2-55 engine. That same year, the complete standing rigging was replaced, the hull was repainted, the toilets were changed, and the electrical system was modernized with, among other things, a Victron charger. In 2020, new navigation instruments were installed (except for the autopilot), as well as a new refrigerator and two new batteries. Very recently, in 2025, the mainsail and the genoa were renewed, which immediately avoids significant start-up costs for the future owner.

A Realistic Base

Cosmetically, the sailboat requires a bit of special attention; the interior is complete and functional but shows obvious signs of wear. Local traces of old water infiltration near the chart table are visible, which is why the starboard portholes were completely replaced and professionally sealed in 2020. Additionally, a few simple technical aspects remain to be reviewed, such as the wiring of the navigation lights at the front and a slow bilge pump, likely clogged. Offered at a competitive price of €32,500—well below the market value of examples with a recent engine and recent sails—this First 38 represents an excellent and stable base for a DIY sailor. The boat will be available starting in August.

Price: €32,500 or financing possible

⚙️ Engine: VOLVO PENTA D2-55 (2015)– 55 hp (440 h)

3 cabins / 8 berths / 1 bathrooms

⛵ Main features:

• Overall length: 12.25 m
• Overall width: 3.9 m
• Draft: 2.1 m
• Fuel tank: 130 L
• Fresh water tank: 2 x 200 L
• Light displacement: 7,100 kg
• Year: 1983
• Flag: BE

⛵ Sails:

• Classic semi-battened mainsail in good condition
• Genoa on roller in good condition
• Symmetrical spinnaker with its pole in good condition with its bag
• Asymmetrical spinnaker in good condition with its bag

⚓ Exterior equipment:

• Lazy jacks
• Lazy bag

Interior layout:

• 1 manual toilet
• Refrigerator
• 2 burners
• Oven

Electronics / Electricity:

• Raymarine Axiom 7 multifunction display
• Raymarine ST6002 autopilot
• Raymarine anemometer
• Raymarine Speedo / Log
• Fixed VHF AdvanSea FX400
• Portable VHF Icom IC M25
• Digital Yacht AIS transponder
• Barometer
• Radio
• Interior speakers
• Exterior speakers
• Battery 2x 120Ah (2020)
• Victron Blue Power 12/30 battery charger
• Compass

Safety / Equipment:

• Survival raft in container - 6 persons
• Dinghy with its outboard motor
• Anchor, chain + line
• Navigation lights TB-BB-rear (to be checked at the front)
• Tricolor light
• Anchor light (to be checked)
• CE 100N life jacket /person (cartridges to be checked for auto jacket)

Financing + insurance possible

(Subject to acceptance by SGB Finance. A loan commits you: check your repayment capacity before committing.)

Feel free to contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment. We will assist you throughout your project until the complete handover of the boat.

Our other brands available new and used: Beneteau, Bavaria, Dufour and many others…

Please contact Top Marine international at 02 31 88 65 55