Boats: The hot First 18 SE
June 10, 2021
An 18-foot fast one-design, Beneteau’s First 18 SE delivers a dinghy-like sailing experience but on a more stable and safer platform, thanks to the wide and flat hull shape and deep-ballasted swinging keel. Twin rudders ensure complete control even when planing at double-digit speeds. Boat handling and deck controls are simplified as much as possible for the best sailing experience.
The jib is furling, the gennaker is easily operated with a snuffer system, and a carbon mast without a backstay supports the powerful square-top mainsail, which ensures fast sailing even in light wind conditions. Thanks to its ergonomic and spacious open cockpit, the boat can be easily sailed solo or with 2 or even up to 3 crew members.
One Design community
Joining a One Design Class gives you access to the largest recreational community of like-minded sailors and the First 18 SE is aimed at that goal. It enables you to test your skills on the racecourse and enjoy good company ashore with a One Design racing calendar comprises of everything from fully crewed windward-leeward races to adventurous long-distance double-handed or solo challenges.
Despite being small, the First 18 SE cabin can still accommodate up to two adults in a sea-camping manner. The front V-berth is sized for an 18ft boat and it also comes with smart crew bags for personal belongings and storage under the cockpit, spacious enough for all the technical equipment. Traditional comfort might be limited, but this boat can get you into the most unreachable places you’ve never discovered before and connect you with the elements like no other boat.
Its large, open cockpit makes her an ideal family sea-camping platform and offers direct access to the sea in cruising mode. A fully retractable swinging keel and removable rudder blades will give you access to some of the shallowest bays.
