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Performance Sailing – Beneteau First 44 Review
July 20, 2026 · 10 min · 19K views · Annapolis, Maryland
What this video covers
The Beneteau First 44 Performance distinguishes itself from the standard cruiser version through a taller carbon fiber rig, a deeper keel, and an active cockpit layout designed for sail trimming.▶ 0:38 The carbon mast increases the mainsail area from 570 to 657 square feet and pushes the air draft to 69 feet 11 inches, rendering the boat incompatible with the standard 65-foot ICW bridge clearance.▶ 2:42 The performance model features an 8-foot 6-inch draft, which limits access to shallow anchorages compared to the 7-foot 1-inch standard keel.▶ 1:56 Optional water ballast tanks allow for increased righting moment during shorthanded sailing, though they require electrical management and add system complexity.▶ 6:15 While the interior offers three cabins and two heads, the design prioritizes weight reduction over the extensive storage found in dedicated offshore cruisers.▶ 7:20 The boat utilizes twin rudders and a 57-horsepower Yanmar engine, with a 53-gallon fuel capacity intended for maneuvering rather than long-range motoring.▶ 7:06
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