Impressive debuts: Beneteau First 53, Oyster 565, Swan 48
Begun back in 2016 as a design competition, this new yacht launched with much fanfare to the public in September in Cannes. And it’s been worth the wait. With its first new First in a decade Beneteau is taking a big step into the luxury end of the fast cruiser market.
This all-italian design is a powerfullooking model with plenty to worry the competition, particularly when you start comparing prices – Beneteau maintains it has similar volume to the Solaris 55, which is 40% more expensive.
A significant 5m of beam is carried right aft to the transom. An inverted sheerline continues the aggressive looks, while buying interior headroom and keeping the coachroof as low as possible.
Beneteau estimates the First 53 will be used for cruising 90% of the time so a dinghy garage is a critical feature. But it’s the interior that perhaps surprises the most, thanks to a distinctly more luxurious feel than might be expected from a First. It certainly confirms that the 53 is aimed more at sailing fast in comfort than it is for racing round cans.
The unusual part of the (three cabin) layout is the predominant amount of saloon space given to sofa seating, with just a small table opposite. “Generally it’s a couple with friends or family aboard, so the way they are using the boat pushed us towards this design,” explains Beneteau’s Damien Jacob.
There is not even the option for a navstation. Beneteau now uses an intuitive app called ‘Ship Control’ on its larger new models, which gives access and control to all the boat’s systems. Elsewhere, it’s a pleasure to see the reintroduction of curved joiner work on fiddles and furniture, at the insistence of designer Lorenzo Argento. The galley includes a domesticsized fridge and plenty of appliances. And the forward cabin is particularly inviting, with shower to one side, heads on the other – a practical layout which increases the perception of space.
Price ex VAT: €478,000 www.beneteau.com