The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 vs Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 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 Flyer 12 2008 measures 41,0 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 20,9 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 21.7 S 2004 tips the scales at 2 744 lbs — 783 lbs more than the Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 at 1 961 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.
The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 carries a rated maximum of 20 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 carries 317 gallons versus 8 gallons in the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 is rated for 12 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 Flyer 12 2008 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 has a documented displacement of 2 744 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 draws 6,0 ft, compared to 3,0 ft for the Beneteau Flyer 12 2008. That 3,0-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.
The Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 has a documented auxiliary engine of 20 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 carries 84 gallons versus 11 gallons on the Beneteau First 21.7 S 2004 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Flyer 12 2008 at 41,0 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.