About this boat

The Beneteau First 345 has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the finest cruiser-racers of its era. Designed to deliver responsive sailing performance while remaining exceptionally comfortable for extended cruising, the First 345 offers a spacious interior, dependable construction, and rewarding handling that continues to make it a favourite among experienced sailors. Whether your plans include weekend cruising, club racing, or longer passages, this 1984 example has been thoughtfully maintained by an owner with nearly four decades of history with the boat. Originally purchased approximately 40 years ago, she remained in the owner's care for over 35 years before being sold and later purchased back three years ago. During her time on Lake Ontario she was actively raced out of Ashbridges Bay before being thoughtfully adapted for comfortable cruising, including a relocated traveller that creates a more open and enjoyable cockpit while preserving excellent sailing characteristics. Significant recent improvements include a new mainsail (2025) featuring three full battens, new exterior decals (2021), a nearly unused Mylar racing headsail, updated cockpit canvas by Peterson Canvas (approximately 3 years old), new interior mattress coverings throughout, a refurbished V-berth headliner, and numerous mechanical and electrical updates. The refrigerator benefits from a newer compressor and freezer that operate exceptionally well, while the galley also features a newer stove and updated faucets. The electrical panel was professionally rewired approximately 15 years ago and includes battery monitoring, charger, Bluetooth stereo, dimmable companionway lighting, and a robust four-battery house bank consisting of four 6-volt batteries wired in pairs. Power is provided by the dependable Volvo Penta 18 HP two-cylinder diesel, serviced this spring with fresh oil and new filters. The vessel also includes both bow and stern shore power connections, making life at the dock convenient and comfortable. Included with the sale is an extensive inventory that would be expensive to assemble today. A windlass is supplied and ready for installation, accompanied by 40 feet of brand-new chain and 200 feet of rode already sized for the system. Also included are two additional spinnakers, three additional sails, cockpit table, new compass (2022), jacklines, three self-inflating PFDs, dinghy with 9.5 HP outboard, ice maker, custom galvanized cradle, full scaffolding and ladders for winter maintenance, and the complete contents of the owner's white storage trailer (the trailer itself is excluded). The owner is even willing to deliver the cradle, assist with unloading, and spend time with the new owner sharing operating knowledge, maintenance history, and cruising tips. The boat presents as dry throughout, with good hatches and no known deck leaks. The hot water system requires final hookup, and the original flexible water bladder is included but should be inspected before use. Standard safety equipment will require routine updating, including replacement flares. For sailors looking for a proven cruiser with genuine pedigree, extensive equipment, and decades of attentive ownership, this First 345 represents an outstanding opportunity. Comfortable under sail, capable of spirited performance, and equipped with an impressive inventory, she is ready for her next owner to enjoy both coastal cruising and club racing alike. Highlights • New mainsail (2025) • Nearly unused Mylar racing headsail • Additional cruising headsail • Three additional sails with two are spinnakers  • Peterson Canvas enclosure (approx. 3 years old) • New interior mattress coverings throughout • V-berth headliner renewed • Volvo Penta 18 HP diesel • Oil and filters serviced this spring • Rewired electrical panel • Battery charger and battery monitor • Four 6V house batteries • Bluetooth stereo • Refrigerator and freezer operating perfectly with newer compressor • Newer galley stove (approx. 4 years old) • Updated galley faucets • New compass (2022) • Windlass included (not yet installed) • 40' new chain and 200' rode included • Cockpit table • Bow and stern shore power connections • Dinghy with 9.5 HP outboard included • Custom galvanized cradle included • Winter scaffolding and ladders included • Owner's extensive spare parts and equipment included • Dry boat with good hatches • Comfortable cruising layout with modified traveller position