The Beneteau First 22 1978 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 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.

The Beneteau First 22 1978 carries a rated maximum of 10 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.

For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 is rated for 16 passengers, while the Beneteau First 22 1978 caps at 6. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 could be the deciding factor.

The Beneteau First 22 1978 has a documented displacement of 3 946 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.

Both boats draw a similar depth — 3,6 ft and 4,0 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.

The Beneteau First 22 1978 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 22 1978 has a documented auxiliary engine of 10 hp.

The Beneteau First 22 1978 is trailerable, giving it a significant lifestyle advantage for sailors who want to move between lakes, rivers, and coastal waters without committing to a marina slip. Hull speed is rated at 23,0 knots for the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 and 5,9 knots for the Beneteau First 22 1978. For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 52 2008 carries 264 gallons versus 13 gallons on the Beneteau First 22 1978 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.