30 AND SINGLE
The Swift Trawler 30 is the latest addition to a long line of cruising Beneteaus and she’s got the cruising chops to create the same vibe as her sisterships, but in a smaller footprint. She made her U.S. debut at Yachts Miami Beach in February. Tinted glass all around combines with a flying bridge (components up there fold to reduce air draft) to make the most of cruising views, while furniture converts to provide comfort for your complement. seating, with some ultraleather upholstery that was a little slippery. Let’s just say it “encouraged relaxing” as you slid into a slouch if you weren’t paying attention (the genuine leather is a good option).
Soon we were all paying attention, however, when we spied a bit of activity just off the Jersey coast: A U.S. Coast Guard HH-65 helicopter and a motor lifeboat seemed to be rehearsing maneuvers. Indeed, their important work should make anyone sit up and take notice.
As we approached the channel for Atlantic City, a big Sunseeker came on strong on an intercept course, running fast from offshore and trailing a plume of mist in the bright sunshine. We fell in behind her as she pulled away. Swift as we were, the design mission of our boat is a bit different, and we were glad of it at the fuel dock the next morning where we topped off in preparation for the long leg to Annapolis.
In Atlantic City we saw the sights. But thanks to the combination of our early start, a day full of flying-bridge fresh air, and the prospect of an early morning departure, we hit the first free table we saw—dining that is, not gaming. After a solid night’s sleep, with Swifty rocking gently at the Frank S. Farley State Marina there, I noted that the crew of a Grand Banks 72 Aleutian in the next slip was casting off lines early and I could see our boat’s reflection in the deep, dark-blue hull as she maneuvered away from the dock—a pretty sight. Considering the similar speeds at which each boat could cruise, the appeal of such flexibility in these modern times was hard to deny. Of course, the 72 was a much larger boat and as such had a set of 1,200-horsepower engines at least.
We would run across that Grand Banks along the way, passing her as her crew enjoyed a dockside lunch in the C&D canal. And when we found our way into Chesapeake Bay, and the approach to Annapolis, it was interesting to see the boats that were out for a late-afternoon rip, sailboats and go-fasts enjoying the day. Who could blame them? As Swifty had shown us at each and every turn, if you have the right boat for the job, you feel like you’re always heading for a sunny place.
Beneteau America, 410-990-0270; www.beneteauamerica.com