First 36, here it is! First sailing photos unveiled

We gave you a preview of it HERE, but little was known about the First 36 then. Now Beneteau’s new little gem is sailing, and we show you the first sailing photos.

First 36: Beneteau’s new 11-meter sailboat

This is what the heir to the First 36.7, one of Beneteau’s most successful models, looks like.

First 36 Beneteau: the evolved racer/cruiser

A sailboat that, they let the shipyard know, aims to combine the “hi-tech” world of racing with that of traditional racer/cruisers. In its “standard” version, Beneteau promises, the First 36 (11.00 x 3.80 m) will be able to plane even in moderate breezes.

Speed, but without betraying the spirit that has always characterized (and brought success to) the First range: namely, the right mix of performance, comfort, elegance, safety in navigation, quality construction and, above all, reasonable price.

What are the key points that enable this? First and foremost, a low displacement (4,800 kg) to facilitate planing; then a deck layout designed down to the smallest detail to be able to steer the boat even with a small crew; a “smart” interior layout with three cabins and many clever solutions for cruising.

First 36 Beneteau – The Design Team

As well as, as we have already told you, a design team of real superstars: Kristian Hajnšek, CTO of Seascape (acquired by Beneteau and specializing in fast sportboats), as project manager, Sam Manuard (Class 40, IMOCA 60, Mini just to name a few of the classes for which he designed masterpieces) for naval architecture, Lorenzo Silver – already hired by Beneteau for the First Yacht 53 – as a designer capable of giving that “Italian touch” to the boat, and the team Gigodesign For innovation and research.

First 36 Beneteau – Sail Area

The fact that the new First 36 will be a fast boat can be seen from the displacement-sail area ratio (of 80 sq. m. with white sails): compared to the First 36.7, we are 21 percent higher, rising 63 percent (180 sq. m. with gennaker).

The positioning of the six winches on deck, the two rudder wheels and all deck equipment was carefully studied and tested on several mock-ups and on a full-scale test boat. The benches in the cockpit are removable (a solution already seen on older Firsts) and create an open cockpit ideal for racing.

The standard aluminum rigging and cast-iron keel were chosen to keep the boat accessible. However, Sam Manuard brought his experience and focused on refining the shape and design of these two key ingredients to maximize the browsing experience. The draft of 2.25 m was chosen as a compromise between performance and ease of use.

First 36 Beneteau: Cruising or Racing? Both

The new First 36, which will be premiered at the Dusseldorf Motor Show in January 2022, will be configurable in two modes, easily alternated. Racing and Cruising.

In the racing layout, Racing, the large, modern cockpit allows different rudder and trim positions for both small-crew and full-crew sailing. In this configuration, the table and benches are removed, opening the cockpit.

A higher-than-average rudder position leaves enough room for the helmsman to move forward to the mainsail winch when sailing with a smaller crew. Positioning the winches in the cockpit allows one or two crew members to sail with their legs in and work the mainsail winches or primaries in full-crew mode. It allows the sheets to be crossed on the windward side. Deck equipment is a mix of Harken, Ronstan, Spinlock and Antal products.

When you take off the racing gear and take the family cruising or daysailing, you switch to cruising mode. Cockpit benches with cushions increase the seating area and add space for storing items and organizing lines. The cockpit table is large enough to accommodate a crew of six. In addition, the design team developed an ultralight swim platform to provide the First 36 with convenient water access without affecting the boat’s performance.

First 36 Beneteau – Interior

Great work has been done, below deck, to maximize volumes. Just think that the First 36 has the same living spaces as the legendary First 40.7! Three double cabins (the master in the bow) and a bathroom, a large refrigerator in the center of the saloon (with the top surface becoming a removable “cutting board”) that makes the kitchen truly XXL.

A “corridor” created together by the folding, removable table helps those on board move around the square safely.

While the chart table is “disappearing” from cruising boats, the First 36 goes against the trend, with a full-size table: important when sailing, also great as a “home office” designed for those who spend long periods on board.

Two portholes in each area of the boat allow airflow and natural light.

E.R.

First 36 Beneteau – Data Sheet

• Hull length 11.00 m
• Beam max. 3,80 m
• Preliminary displacement 4,800 kg
• Draft 2.25 m
• Ballast 1550 kg
• Sup. sail (windward) 80 sq. m.
• Sup. sail (carriers) 180 sq. m.
• Recommended price 198,000 euros excluding VAT
  
• Website www.beneteau.com
  

Here you can find Beneteau dealers in Italy

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