NEW Beneteau First 36

The Beneteau First 36 is a modern performance cruiser designed to deliver a high level of sailing engagement while remaining practical for real-world use. Developed by Samuel Manuard with input from the Seascape team, the design focuses on creating a boat that is fast, responsive and capable offshore, without becoming overly complex or crew-dependent.

At just over 11 metres, the First 36 sits in a versatile part of the market, offering genuine offshore capability and competitive racing potential, while still being manageable for owner-drivers and smaller crews.

The deck layout is designed around performance and efficiency, with a focus on keeping the cockpit clear and functional during active sailing. The cockpit is wide and open, allowing for easy movement during manoeuvres, sail changes and racing situations.

Twin helm positions improve visibility and control when the boat is heeled, while also keeping access through the cockpit clear. Control lines are led aft and arranged to allow trimming and sail handling to be managed efficiently by a small crew, reducing crossover and congestion.

The deck hardware and winch setup are sized to balance performance with usability, meaning sail loads can be managed without excessive physical effort. The overall layout supports both competitive sailing and short-handed operation, which is a key design goal of the First range.

Weight distribution is carefully managed throughout the deck and rig setup, contributing directly to performance and handling characteristics, particularly when sailing at higher speeds or offshore.

Below deck, the First 36 is designed to remain functional while supporting the boat's performance objectives. The interior uses a structural grid system that contributes to hull stiffness and reduces overall weight, which directly benefits sailing performance.

The layout provides accommodation for offshore use, including forward and aft berths that are properly sized and positioned for sailing conditions. The saloon includes seating and a central table, offering a usable space for meals, navigation or planning during longer trips.

Standing headroom is available in key areas, making the boat more practical for extended time onboard compared to more stripped-out race designs. Storage is integrated for essential gear and provisions, though it remains more performance-focused than cruising-oriented.

The galley is compact but functional, typically including cooking facilities suitable for offshore use. The boat is also equipped with a fully enclosed marine bathroom (head), which is an important inclusion for offshore racing compliance as well as general usability.

The First 36 is designed to deliver strong performance across a wide range of conditions, including offshore racing and fast coastal sailing. The hull shape, combined with a modern rig and lightweight construction, allows the boat to accelerate quickly and maintain speed efficiently.

A key feature of the design is its ability to remain controlled and predictable even when pushed, which is critical for both racing and offshore passages. The boat is capable of planing in the right conditions, offering higher speeds than traditional displacement cruisers.

Sail handling systems are set up to allow efficient operation with a smaller crew, making the boat realistic for owner-driven sailing rather than requiring a full race team. At the same time, the design supports more advanced sail configurations and trimming for competitive use.

The result is a yacht that provides a high level of feedback and responsiveness at the helm, while still maintaining the stability and control needed for longer passages and varied conditions.

For information on the BENETEAU sailing range contact Grahame Hunt on Call Now | Mansfield Marine Brokers Hillarys & Fremantle

Mansfield Marine Brokers are Western Australia's largest new and used pleasure boat brokerage. We proudly represent Beneteau Power and Sail boats, Sea Ray, Robalo, Caribbean, and LOMAC RIBs throughout WA.

Our team prides itself on providing genuine, qualified, and down-to-earth advice backed by extensive experience in boating and the marine industry. We can assist with all aspects of boating, including vessel maintenance and servicing, shipwrighting and repairs, custom fit-outs, driver training, pen rope setup and marina assistance, insurance and insurance repairs, as well as marine sales and brokerage.
We know boats, and we take the hassle out of boat ownership so you and your family can simply enjoy being out on the water.

For information and full specifications on the BENETEAU sailing range contact Grahame Hunt on Call Now or
Jake Flintoff Call Now | Mansfield Marine Brokers Hillarys & Fremantle.