- Price: from 2 500 euros
- Built from 1979 to 1983 with 1 065 copies
It's in the breeze, during a rough wave against a steep chop that you'll notice it: the 18 is still upwind under sails - reduced of course - while many larger cruisers throw in the towel and head for the engine... One of the rare sailing boats less than 6 metres long capable of facing muscular conditions.
A little downside in light weather. A little heavier than the other Micros - Neptune 550 or Microsail to name but a few - it is logically less nervous. Not to spoil anything, it keeps a nice look that doesn't betray its age - launch in 1979 all the same !
It even has, with its very wide cockpit, its split rigging, which gives pride of place to the mainsail, its whistle deckhouse and its hovering hull - almost all the attributes of today's cruiser - only missing the right bow. Decidedly a very good vintage that this Finot plan: it ages well, it is strong, and moreover it is pleasant to steer.
Inside, four berths and an articulated table The First 18 has been marketed as a fixed keel or a pivoting keel version. The latter, sold a little more expensive, requires a careful check of the mechanism.
The diagnosis of Bateaux.com
The First 18, in the pocket cruiser category, is certainly one of the best choices. It opens all kinds of programs: day trips, regattas, cabotage... and why not bigger trips. A perfect support for those who have sailing ambitions inversely proportional to their budget.
The benefits
Disadvantages
- A little heavy in light weather
- Fragile linings
- Does not run aground flat without crutches
But what does he miss?
Except for a few extra pounds, he's perfect
The equivalent today?
The Micro remains popular in Central Europe, but in France, practically nothing new. Apart from the indéboulonnable Corsaire born in 1954.
