The Beneteau First 24 SE 0 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 3,1 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 24 SE 0 at 23,1 feet. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 27 2018 tips the scales at 3 042 lbs — 1 014 lbs less than the Beneteau First 24 SE 0 at 2 028 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 27 2018 tops out at 10 hp. Engine specs for the Beneteau First 24 SE 0 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.
Both boats are rated for 7 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Both boats sit in a similar displacement bracket — 2 028 lbs for the Beneteau First 24 SE 0 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.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Beneteau First 24 SE 0 draws 10,0 ft, compared to 6,5 ft for the Beneteau First 27 2018. That 3,5-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 27 2018 has a documented auxiliary engine of 10 hp.
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 24 SE 0 at 23,1 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.