Built from 1992 to 1997, this compact Groupe Finot design represents Beneteau's effort to create an accessible yet capable small cruiser for coastal adventures and sailing education. At just over 20 feet, the First 210 packs impressive functionality into its modest footprint, making it an ideal choice for new sailors or those seeking a manageable weekend cruiser. The boat's most distinctive feature is its swing keel design, which reduces draft significantly when retracted, opening up shallow anchorages and simplifying trailer launching. With the keel down, the substantial ballast ratio provides reassuring stability for a boat this size. The fractional sloop rig delivers a healthy sail area-to-displacement ratio of 22.3, suggesting spirited performance in moderate conditions while remaining manageable for single-handed sailing. The First 210's fiberglass construction follows Beneteau's reputation for solid build quality, while the relatively light displacement keeps the boat responsive and easy to handle. Her comfort ratio of 10.59 indicates a quick motion in seas, typical of performance-oriented designs in this size range. This combination of swing keel versatility, trailer-ability, and French construction quality made the First 210 particularly popular among sailing schools and first-time boat owners seeking coastal cruising capability.
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