Beneteau First 45f5

The Beneteau First 45f5 is one of the most successful production racing yachts in sailing history. Designed by Farr Yacht Design and built by Beneteau from 1989 through 1996, over 1,000 hulls were produced — a remarkable production figure for a performance yacht in this size range. The 45f5 established the Farr–Beneteau partnership as a force in production performance sailing and set the standard for what a production racing yacht could achieve.

Decades after production ended, the First 45f5 remains a competitive IRC and club racing yacht, with strong fleets racing in Europe, North America, and beyond. The design’s longevity reflects both the quality of the original Farr lines and the durability of Beneteau’s production. For many sailors, the 45f5 was their first encounter with genuine Farr performance — and many have been loyal to the brand ever since.