Beneteau First 24 SE

Overview

The Beneteau First 24 SE is a high-performance small sailboat from the French company Beneteau, belonging to the sporty Daysailer category of the First series. Approximately 7.3 meters in length, this boat focuses on lightweight design, agile handling, and a pure sailing experience, offering both everyday leisure use and strong competitive performance.

Designed by Samuel Manuard, the First 24 SE features an efficient hull line and modern sail configuration, emphasizing speed, handling feedback, and single-person sailing capability. Compared to traditional small cruising sailboats, it boasts stronger sporty attributes while retaining essential living functions, making it suitable for weekend sailing, sailing training, and near-shore exploration. For users who want to experience the true joy of sailing without the maintenance burden of a large sailboat, the First 24 SE is a very balanced choice.
 

Key Highlights

 

• High-Performance Sporty Design: Utilizes a lightweight hull and optimized hull shape for a fast and responsive sailing experience.
• Excellent Handling Performance: Suitable for single or tandem sailing, with direct handling feedback.
• Modernized sailing system: Equipped with an efficient mast and sail design for improved sailing efficiency.
• Flexible use: Suitable for both leisure cruising and sailing competitions.
• Compact yet practical layout: Provides basic rest areas inside, accommodating short overnight stays.
• Trailer-friendly design: Moderately sized for easy transport and flexible sailing locations.
• Lower maintenance costs: Lower daily maintenance and operational burden compared to larger sailboats.

 

Use Cases & Suitable Audience

The Beneteau First 24 SE is suitable for users who enjoy active sailing and the pleasure of handling a sailboat. It is ideal for weekend sea activities, near-shore cruising, sailing training, and amateur competitions. Due to its smaller size, the operator can more directly feel changes in wind direction, sail adjustments, and hull feedback, making it more suitable for those looking to improve their sailing skills.

This boat is particularly suitable for young boat owners, sailing enthusiasts, and users looking to upgrade from a small boat to a professional sports sailboat. Compared to large cruising sailboats, the First 24 SE requires less complex crew configuration and does not rely on large marina facilities, making it simpler to use daily. It is also suitable as a family recreational sailboat, allowing users to enjoy relaxing weekends at sea.
 

Cost of Ownership & Market Perspective

As a 24-foot high-performance sailboat, the new price of the Beneteau First 24 SE typically ranges from $100,000 to $150,000, depending on sail configuration, electronics, and optional upgrades. The resale market price varies depending on the boat's age, sail condition, and maintenance history.

The annual ownership cost of a sailboat in this class is typically about 5% to 10% of the boat's price, mainly including berthing fees, hull maintenance, sail inspections, insurance, and equipment maintenance. Compared to larger cruising sailboats, the First 24 SE has significant advantages in maintenance, transportation, and storage, making it more suitable for long-term personal ownership.

From a market perspective, the Beneteau First series enjoys high brand recognition in the global sailboat market and is recognized by both recreational and competitive sailing enthusiasts. The First 24 SE, with its sporty performance, brand influence, and good resale market availability, is competitive in the small high-performance sailboat market.
 

Buying Advice

If you're looking for a sport sailboat that offers an authentic sailing experience while maintaining everyday usability, the Beneteau First 24 SE is a worthwhile option. It doesn't prioritize luxurious living spaces but focuses on driving pleasure, speed performance, and the interaction between the rider and the boat.

The First 24 SE is highly suitable for beginners in performance sailing or owners seeking a low-maintenance, high-engagement sailboat. When purchasing a used model, it's recommended to carefully inspect the hull structure, keel condition, mast system, sail wear, and deck equipment. For those planning to race or engage in long-distance sailing, it's also important to select appropriate sails and electronics configurations based on your needs.