The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 vs Beneteau First 27 2018 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau First 27 2018 measures 26,2 feet overall (2018), giving it roughly 6,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 at 20,1 feet (2004). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 27 2018 tips the scales at 3 042 lbs — 298 lbs less than the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 at 2 744 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
Both boats share a closely matched power ceiling — 20 hp for the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 and 10 hp for the Beneteau First 27 2018. Real-world performance will come down more to which motor is actually bolted on, its load at the time, and whether it's a 4-stroke or 2-stroke setup.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau First 27 2018 is rated for 7 passengers, while the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau First 27 2018 could be the deciding factor.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 2 744 lbs for the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 and 3 042 lbs for the Beneteau First 27 2018. Comparable displacement means broadly similar seakeeping behaviour and load capacity, though hull form and ballast ratio will still produce noticeably different sailing characteristics.
Both boats draw a similar depth — 6,0 ft and 6,5 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
For auxiliary power the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 carries a 20-hp engine against 10 hp on the Beneteau First 27 2018. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
The Beneteau First 27 2018 is trailerable — a genuine advantage for sailors who prefer to keep their boat at home or explore multiple sailing venues.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 27 2018 at 26,2 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 at 20,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.