Aug252021

Three years ago, BENETEAU and Seascape joined forces to co-develop the new generation of First. After launching the sport-cruiser part of the range: First 14, First 24 and First 27, we are excited to unveil the first model from the racer-cruiser range – the brand new First 36.

First 36 continues to build on the heritage of BENETEAU First – achieving a perfect balance between impossible needs. In order to hit the elusive sweet spot between comfort and performance, elegance, and utility, as well as high-tech construction and reasonable cost, the team was joined by an elite international group of designers:

  • Structural engineering: Pure Design & Engineering (NZL), well known for TP52s, the Ineos AC75, IMOCA 60s…
  • Naval architect: Samuel Manuard (FRA) is currently the hottest name in the IMOCA 60 class after dominating class Mini and Class 40. He also designed all of the 7th generation First and First SE from 14-27ft.
  • Design: Lorenzo Argento (ITA); First 36 is following the same design language of her larger sister – First Yacht 53, building on the timeless aesthetic of his work on Wally and Brenta
  • Gigodesign (SLO)– design research and innovation insights of this multi Red Dot awarded industrial design studio was essential in starting the project in the right direction.

The design team is coordinated by the experienced hand of Kristian Hajnšek, CTO of Seascape, who works closely with the team at BENETEAU to bring modern construction technologies into the segment of accessible production racer-cruisers.

From L to R: Gianguido Girotti, Damien Jacob, Lorenzo Argento, Sam Manuard, Andraz Mihelin, Luka Stepan, Martin Sostaric @Gigo Design

First 36 follows the design language of the 7th generation of First set by Lorenzo Argento as a subtle, elegant and super-efficient boat. Designed by sailors, for sailors, the boat has no features without purpose. Thanks to its wide modern hull, the largest living space in its class will offer comfort comparable to the successful BENETEAU First 40.7, with plenty of smart solutions to make living onboard a great experience.

The main promise of the sailing experience of the First 36 is planing in medium winds by short-handed or fully crewed teams while remaining an allround boat – a perfect club racer and a capable family cruiser.

“It’s going to be much livelier and lighter than most of the boats you can buy. It bridges the gap between sport boats and family cruisers.”

Giovanni Belgrano
Pure Design Engineering