A first Manuard plan for Bénéteau
After the passage of the Seascape yachts under the First 14, 24 and 27 label in 2021, the First 36 was eagerly awaited from the pencil of Sam Manuard. The naval architect had already made some modifications on the previous models of sailing boats of the Slovenian shipyard Seascape, but he draws here a new model made in Bénéteau, even if the production is made in Slovenia.
A compromise between cruising and racing
Although Sam Manuard has not yet had the opportunity to sail aboard the First 36, he has nevertheless received positive feedback: "People are surprised by the fact that the boat is very rich in sensations and fun to sail. It's a modern boat in the sense that it has a fairly powerful hull that has proven itself in ocean racing. It is quite balanced, which gives the boat a good behavior, especially downwind, and allows it to leave the planning quickly. It is not extreme either, like a racing boat with a too flat hull. It's a good compromise between a thrill boat and a boat for cruising with friends or family." This is the DNA of the First line.
In its press release, the shipyard announces average speeds of 9 to 11 knots.
"Everything depends on the conditions, but I am happy with the speeds obtained, which correspond to the speeds announced. We can say that the First belongs to the category of fast boats" adds the architect.
Vacuum construction for lightweight design
The entire boat is vacuum infused with a foam sandwich structure, including the bulkheads and most of the accommodation, which gives the First 36 a rather light weight for a production boat of 4.8 tons for 11 m in length. In comparison, a Pogo 36 with a much more streamlined layout weighs 3.8 tons.
A modular cockpit
To facilitate the different navigation programs, the cockpit has two distinct modes: one for racing and short-handed navigation and the other for cruising. Seating can be extended with removable lockers that accommodate passengers around a cockpit table.
"Two removable chests serve as both bench and storage space. Their modularity allows them to be removed or added. When you're cruising, you have more hawsers, mooring lines, fenders. It allows you to store everything and have them at hand. We also gain in seating area, but we keep a real space around the cockpit table. This way, we can respond to different sailing desires and programs. With the same boat, you can go for a family outing or race without stepping on each other, because the First 36 is really big."
The helm station is equipped with two steering wheels, but a sportier version with tiller should also be offered.
A spacious and well thought out interior
The interior is inspired by the First 40.7 and offers a similar volume thanks to the hull design. Light abounds from the deck hatches and the side and roof windows. The bulkheads and most of the elements are in composite, highlighted by woodwork used for doors, floors, tables and fargues.
"The interior is well thought out and spacious. Bénéteau worked with the design firm Digot Design. They are specialists in motorhomes and are used to offering maximum functionality in a small space. The volume of the saloon is striking. It is a large and friendly space. Several tricks are used on board to optimize the space. The galley is modular with the possibility of obtaining an L-shaped galley by positioning a cutting board between the galley on the port side and the central cabinet that houses the refrigerator. It is a nice place to cook and to move around on board. In the bathroom, the sink is retractable to offer more functionality in a reduced space. Through these tricks, we get a great square volume."
3 double cabins complete the interior layout.
Reconnecting with the spirit of First
In conclusion, Sam Manuard states: "We wanted to get back to the spirit of the Firsts before: to make a simple, efficient and fairly modern boat. This is the first time I've worked with Bénéteau. It's a great opportunity to be able to design a large production boat that will potentially be available in different places and on which many people will sail. I come from the cruising world and I'm delighted to be back in that. I hope this boat will spark vocations."
