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The First 50 looks spectacular: a sleek, powerful performance cruiser. It's been laid out for shorthanded sailing, with all control lines leading aft from the aluminum three-spreader mast and safely entrenched in two shallow gullies that terminate in twin banks of rope clutches. Primary winches for the headsail sit just forward of the twin, 35-inch-diameter wheels. The mainsail is large, and its big, centerline-mounted winch is within easy reach of the helms. The jib tracks and long row of centerline deck hatches are flush to the optional teak deck, and the roller-furler drum is belowdecks, in a locker that also hides a clever articulating anchor sprit and roller.

Despite its power and size, I believe the boat would be manageable for a couple if they go for the power-winch option on the mainsheet and halyard winches

Belowdecks, simplicity prevails, and the space is bright and airy thanks to light-colored wood, stainless steel, five overhead hatches, and 12 opening ports. The saloon settees are straight and are good sea berths. The master cabin is forward, with a pedestal berth and private head. From the roomy nav station to the offshore-friendly T-shaped galley, three couples can comfortably cruise aboard.

We sailed the boat in light air and no chop, and it performed well, achieving 4.9 knots in 4.9 knots of breeze.

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Beneteau First 50 Specs

LOA: 49' 1"
LWL:  43' 5"
Beam: 14' 4"
Draft (deep): 9' 2"
Sail Area: 1,195 sq. ft.
Displacement**    28,550 lb.
Water    150 gal.
Fuel    63 gal.
Engine    75-hp.Yanmar
Designer    Philippe Briand
Price***    $400,000
Beneteau USA, (843) 629-5300, www.beneteauusa.com

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