The new FIRST 36 SE changes the game!

Presentation

Adrian Dragan1 July 202554 Vizualizări

Beneteau First 36SE

After the international premiere at Boot Dusseldorf 2025, Beneteau returns with the first images and information during the presentation on the water for the new First 36 SE model – the best “racing glider”, born from the collaboration between Beneteau and Seascape.

The builder states that it is more than just a boat; it is a “declaration”. The SE – Seascape Edition logo promises a sailing experience supported by the first SE community of avid sailors.

Back to the soul of sailing

The mission of the First SE range is to bring people back to the heart of sailing. This is achieved by combining the characteristics of recreational boats with the performance of racing sailboats, the courage of sailors and the curiosity to sail outside their comfort zone. A community of more than 1,000 sailors who want these things will be built around the First SE range.

Passion and pedigree

Over the years, the First SE range has brought together a team of exceptional sailors, designers, engineers and builders – people who understand First SE’s values and share a deep passion for sailing. The project started with the First 36, a boat that has already proven its qualities by winning the Rolex Middle Sea Race. From there, the goal was to unleash its full potential.

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Renowned naval architect Samuel Manuard, the name behind the original First 36, joined forces with design legend Bernard Nivelt to evolve the platform into a thoroughbred IRC racer. And to ensure optimal performance in the ORC as well, Maurizio Cossutti contributed his extensive expertise in the field of rating rules.

Despite having a low weight compared to the standard First 36 , the first ORC certification for the First 36 SE test shows an improvement in APH of about 520 with full crew, or APH of about 530 for double-handed teams.

The team’s goal was to create a racing boat that glides and performs at the highest level, while being deeply connected to the helmsman’s control.

Designed for speed

So, what does the First 36 SE come with? First of all, the total shedding is 400 kg lower. This reduced displacement, combined with a redesigned hoist, shortens the waterline and reduces the watered area by almost 3 m² (approximately 30 square feet), resulting in improved acceleration and greater gliding pleasure at high speeds.

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Refined cockpit ergonomics: The two rudders are replaced by the helm for direct and intuitive control, resulting in an ergonomic position for the helmsman. The cockpit deck is covered with soft foam for more comfort and confidence under the feet.

Interms of features, the First 36 SE now comes standard with quick water evacuation zones, an e-bar for angle adjustment for the eke, and a carbon spindle for increased performance.

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However, the manufacturer states that the First 36 SE still offers all the amenities of a standard First 36 cruiser – albeit with a lower weight
and more supple.

Here are some conclusions from the team after the first test sailings on the First 36 SE:

Samuel Manuard, world-class racing driver and her naval architect:

After the first sailing, I can confidently say that the First 36 SE is a racing boat! The 10% lighter weight compared to the First 36 is really felt. Today we glided in light wind conditions, which is excellent. The boat is very receptive to the rudder. You can place the bow exactly where you want and feel completely in control. She is equipped with two rudders because of the wide stern, which means that you can really force the boat into the tight wind, even at high speeds, without being afraid of broaching. I’m very happy with the ergonomics – the helm position is excellent. You can spend hours in a regatta and you won’t feel destroyed afterward, which says a lot. It will be quite effective in races with two-person crews, as well as with a full crew, because you have room to maneuver and can accommodate the whole team.”

Lorenzo Argento, owner of First 36 and its designer:

I’ve owned a First 36 for two years – this will be the third season – and I’ve already sailed over 6,000 nautical miles with it. While designing the First 36, I thought this one was perfect for me – it ticks all the boxes. Today, I had the opportunity to sail the new First 36 SE. The wind was shifting, but I was really surprised by the acceleration and the level of control. The wheelhouse gives you a much closer, more direct feel. The SE version is lighter, simpler and designed to fully unleash the gliding potential of the boat – and you really can feel it. Even when you go on board, the boat responds immediately. Personally, I would still choose the cruise version – First 36 – because it suits my needs better. But if I had ambitions in racing, I would definitely choose this one.

Andraž Mihelin, CEO of Seascape, said:

The First 36 SE has been designed to provide an unparalleled connection to the ancient art of navigation. Every element has been put in place to turn the wind into pure sailing joy, and having sailed on it, that’s exactly what it does. Compared to the First 36, it is more responsive, more precise, reacts faster in slightly borderline conditions, and starts to glide in just 12kt TWS. Now I’m convinced it’s probably the fastest and most fun 36-foot production boat on the market.”