Beneteau Unveils First 36 SE
Beneteau and Seascape have unveiled the First 36 SE (Seascape Edition), a lightweight evolution of the original First 36 aimed squarely at performance-minded sailors. Built on a proven offshore platform—one that has already claimed class victories in races like the Rolex Middle Sea Race-the new SE model pares back weight and amps up handling, without sacrificing core cruising functionality.
The development of the First 36 SE draws on the experience of a world-class team of designers and engineers. Naval architect Samuel Manuard, joined by design veterans Bernard Nivelt and Maurizio Cossutti, helped rework the hull shape, weight distribution, and cockpit ergonomics to better suit IRC and ORC competition.
The result is a 36-foot monohull racer that planes in as little as 12 knots of breeze and delivers responsive control at speed. The SE version trims 400 kilograms off the standard First 36’s displacement and shortens the wetted surface by nearly 30 square feet. Key upgrades include a carbon rig, flush racing hardware, a tiller helm for direct control, and soft deck grip throughout the cockpit. Twin rudders help maintain control when reaching at high speeds.
Despite the race-focused design, Beneteau says the boat retains the same interior layout as the standard First 36, making it suitable for sailors who occasionally cruise, but prioritize speed.
The First SE line-now counting over 1,000 boats in the community across multiple sizes-has grown into a performance sailing sub-brand for Beneteau, attracting a dedicated following of doublehanded racers and high-performance weekend warriors alike.
Seascape CEO Andraž Mihelin called the First 36 SE “arguably the fastest and most fun 36-foot production boat on the market.”
With deliveries expected in 2026, the First 36 SE represents the latest step in Beneteau’s evolution toward race-grade design with broad sailor appeal.
For more on the new model, visit Beneteau First 36 SE.
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