Beneteau has introduced the new First 30, a sailboat designed to offer a fresh approach to small-boat sailing with the concept of a planing cruiser. This model aims to make the experience of planing—when a boat lifts from the water and moves at higher speeds—more accessible to a wider range of sailors.
A New Category: The Planing Cruiser
The First 30 introduces the idea of a “planing cruiser,” a sailboat designed for both ease of use and performance. Andraz Mihelin, CEO of Seascape, notes that today’s sailors are looking for a different experience than in the past. “Sailing today is less about racing and more about connecting with nature and enjoying time with others,” he explains. In response to this shift, Beneteau and Seascape have worked together to create a new type of sailboat that balances performance with comfort and simplicity.
Building on a Legacy
The First 30 builds on Beneteau’s history, marking an important development for the company’s 140th anniversary. This model was designed with input from a team of experienced designers and engineers to create a boat that responds to the needs of modern sailors.
The First 30 is designed to get up to planing speeds quickly and is easy to manage with a simple rig and a clean, uncluttered cockpit. This makes it a practical choice for a variety of sailors, whether sailing with a small crew or with family. The boat is designed to perform well under different conditions, with an emphasis on ease of handling and safety.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the key aspects of the First 30 is its accessible price point. With a base price of €100,000 (excluding VAT) and various financial options, Beneteau aims to open up the planing cruiser category to a broad range of sailors.
Comfortable Interior Design
The interior of the First 30 is designed with comfort in mind, offering accommodation for up to four people in two cabins. The saloon features a 1.85-meter headroom, and the boat includes a functional galley with a stove and fridge, a marine head, and well-planned storage options. Sustainable materials such as cork flooring and magnetic doors reflect a thoughtful approach to design.
For those looking for more interior features, Beneteau offers an optional ‘premium pack’ that includes upgraded upholstery, a saloon backrest, and customizable lighting and materials.
Thoughtful Deck and Cockpit Layout
The deck and cockpit of the First 30 have been designed to offer both comfort and functionality. The cockpit can be set up in two different configurations, one for day sailing and cruising, and another for racing. Both layouts focus on keeping the space uncluttered, with easy access to controls. The cruising layout is designed to be manageable with minimal effort, while the racing layout provides additional trim controls for those who are looking for more performance-focused sailing.
A New Offering for a Changing Market
The Beneteau First 30 is positioned as a versatile sailboat that brings together the enjoyment of planing with practical features for both performance and leisure sailing. It will officially launch at Boot Düsseldorf in January 2025.