Beneteau First 265 vs Ranger 26-2
How do the Beneteau First 265 and Ranger 26-2 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Beneteau First 265 | Beneteau First 265 | Ranger 26-2 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 26.0 ft7.92 m | 26.0 ft7.92 m |
| Waterline length | 24.2 ft7.37 m | 19.8 ft6.03 m |
| Beam | 9.4 ft2.87 m | 8.0 ft2.44 m |
| Draft | 4.9 ft1.50 m | 4.8 ft1.45 m |
| Displacement | 4,800 lb2,177 kg | 3,000 lb1,361 kg |
| Ballast | 1,430 lb649 kg | —— |
| Sail area | 323 ft²30.0 m² | 284 ft²26.4 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 18.16 | 21.85 |
| Displacement / Length | 152 | 173 |
| Comfort ratio | 15.1 | 13.4 |
| Capsize screening | 2.23 | 2.22 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.6 | 6.0 |
Beneteau First 265 vs Ranger 26-2: the short version
- The Beneteau First 265 and Ranger 26-2 are close in length (26.0 ft7.92 m vs 26.0 ft7.92 m ).
- The Beneteau First 265 is heavier, displacing about 60% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Ranger 26-2 carries the more powerful rig (21.8 vs 18.2), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Beneteau First 265 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Ranger 26-2 rates better for offshore work (2.22 vs 2.23).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.