The keel-equipped version of the boat has a draft of 4.76 ft (1.45 m), while the centreboard-equipped version has a draft of 6.08 ft (1.85 m) with the centreboard extended and 2.75 ft (0.84 m) with it retracted.[1][3]
The boat is optionally fitted with a Japanese Yanmar 2YM15 diesel engine of 14 hp (10 kW). The fuel tank holds 8 U.S. gallons (30 L; 6.7 imp gal) and the fresh water tank has a capacity of 11 U.S. gallons (42 L; 9.2 imp gal).[1][3]
The design has a hull speed of 6.58 kn (12.19 km/h).[3]
Operational history
In a 2017 review in Sail magazine, writer Zuzana Prochazka concluded, "Beneteau’s marketing material describes the boat as being built for 'spontaneous day-cruising,' but it's clear there is enough performance in this design for the boat to get in some fun and exciting club racing as well. Equally appealing is the idea that you can trailer the First 25 S pretty much anywhere, launch it and go exploring to your heart's content. In short, this is one nice little boat."[6]