Bénéteau announces the release of the First 36 SE, in collaboration with Seascape. This 10-meter sailboat is clearly oriented towards the pleasures of sailing and racing.
SE, as in Seascape Edition. One can say that the acquisition of the Seascape shipyard by Bénéteau has been a success. It is the entire First range that is regaining its colors. The First 36 SE aims to seduce sailing enthusiasts and regatta lovers. A return to the roots for the First range, which has seen the birth of Bénéteau’s sailboats.
Seascape is a company specialized in the design and construction of racing-cruising sailboats. Founded in Slovenia, the shipyard has acquired a solid reputation in the nautical industry thanks to innovative and high-performance sailboats. This is what led Bénéteau to become interested in the shipyard.
The BENETEAU First 36 SE, much more than an evolution of the First 36, is designed to offer its crew an exceptional sailing experience, whether racing or cruising, somewhat akin to what the Hanse shipyard offers with the Hanse 360 ST. Here are some key points of this experience:
- Performance: The sailboat is optimized for racing, with a lightweight hull and keel and rudder appendages designed to maximize speed and maneuverability.
- Comfort: Despite its performance orientation, the First 36 SE offers a comfortable and functional interior, ideal for extended cruises.
- Ergonomics: The cockpit is designed to provide an ergonomic sailing space, with easily accessible controls and a pleasant living area.
Design and Concept
The design of the BENETEAU First 36 SE was carried out by a solid and reputable team, including naval architects and experienced designers:
- Naval Architect: Samuel Manuard, known for his innovative and high-performance designs.
- Design: Lorenzo Argento, who brought his expertise in design and ergonomics.
- Rating Optimization: Bernard Nivelt and Maurizio Cossutti, who worked on performance optimization under IRC and ORC racing rules.
- Structural Engineering: Pure Design & Engineering, ensuring the robustness and lightness of the structure.
- Interior Design: Sito, for a functional and aesthetic interior.
Expert Opinions
Experts and users of the BENETEAU First 36 SE have shared their impressions and opinions on this sailboat:
- Samuel Manuard: “After the first sail, I can confidently say that the First 36 SE is a racing boat. The 10% reduction in displacement compared to the First 36 is really noticeable. Today, we planed in light wind conditions, which is excellent. The boat is very responsive to the helm. You can place the bow exactly where you want and feel completely in control.”
- Lorenzo Argento: “I have owned a First 36 for two years now, and I have already sailed more than 6,000 nautical miles on it. In designing the First 36 SE, I thought it was perfect for me; it ticks all the boxes. Today, I had the chance to sail on the new First 36 SE. The wind was changing, but I was really surprised by the acceleration and level of control. The rudder gives a much closer and more direct feel. The SE version is lighter, cleaner, and designed to fully unleash the boat’s planing potential, and you can really feel it.”
- Andraž Mihelin: “The First 36 SE has been designed to offer an unparalleled connection to the basics of sailing and navigation. Every element has been refined to transform the wind into pure sailing pleasure, and after sailing it, that’s exactly what it does. Compared to the First 36, it is more responsive, more precise, reacts faster in light and sticky wind conditions, and starts planing with as little as 12 knots of true wind. I am now convinced that it is probably the fastest and most fun 36-foot production boat on the market.”
In short, does Bénéteau seem to want to play in the pure racer boat arena and come to challenge Dehler or X Yachts?
Technical Specifications Bénéteau First 36 SE
- Gennaker area: 141 m²
- Total length: 11.98 meters
- Hull width: 3.80 meters
- Light displacement: 4,400 kg
- Ballast: 1,530 kg
- Draft: 1.95 meters
- Air draft: 17.80 meters
- Fuel tank capacity: 70 liters
- Fresh water capacity: 200 liters
- Standard engine power: 29 HP
- Mainsail area: 42 m²
- Genoa area: 38 m²
Seascape is a company specialized in the design and construction of racing-cruising sailboats. Founded in Slovenia, Seascape has acquired a solid reputation in the nautical industry thanks to its innovative and high-performance designs. The company collaborates with renowned naval architects and designers to create sailboats that combine performance and comfort.