Beneteau 34 Information, Review, Specs

Constructed by the renowned French builder Beneteau, the 34 carries forward a tradition of innovation that dates back to 1884. With naval architecture by Finot / Conq Assoc, specifically Jean-Marie Finot, and interior design by Nauta Design, the vessel was conceived to deliver strong performance within a streamlined and elegant cruising platform.

History and Design

The Beneteau 34, along with its close sibling the Oceanis 34, began production in 2008, signifying Beneteau's continued evolution in the fiberglass era, a pivotal transition for the company in the 1960s. Beneteau, known for its focus on balancing performance, comfort, and affordability, aimed to create a yacht that would appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors, from weekend cruisers to those embarking on more extended voyages. The design philosophy behind the 34 was to promise optimal performance for an elegant cruiser while ensuring bright and welcoming living spaces below deck.

Variations of the Beneteau 34 include a shallow draft version, reducing the draft to 4.5 feet, which can be particularly advantageous for navigating shallower coastal waters or accessing more secluded anchorages, though it carries slightly more ballast at 3,556 pounds compared to the standard keel's 3,208 pounds. The standard draft measures 6.08 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 34 feet and a waterline length of 30.67 feet, the Beneteau 34 is designed for efficient movement through the water. Her sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.05 indicates a moderate sail plan, suggesting a balanced performance that handles well across various wind conditions, favoring medium to heavier air over light-air responsiveness. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 194.79 places her in the light-to-medium displacement category, leaning towards a more performance-oriented cruiser.

While generally described as an "affordable performance cruiser" and "a blast to sail," the Beneteau 34’s ballast to displacement ratio of about 0.255 is relatively modest. Some owners have noted that this characteristic can make the boat feel a bit "tender or prone" in certain conditions, suggesting a more sensitive helm that responds readily to wind and wave action. Nevertheless, the Finot-Conq design promises good performance for a cruiser of its type, aiming for a streamlined and elegant sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau 34, styled by Nauta Design, is celebrated for its luminous and welcoming living spaces. The design prioritizes comfort, ease of use, and efficient movement, creating interiors that are notably bright and airy. While specific layouts can vary, a typical arrangement for a boat of this size usually features two private cabins—a V-berth forward and an aft cabin—along with a main salon, a galley, and a head. The focus on maximizing natural light and ventilation contributes to a comfortable environment below deck, enhancing the cruising experience. The boat carries a substantial 83 gallons of water capacity, complemented by a 34-gallon fuel tank for its 29 HP Yanmar diesel engine.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau 34 generally express satisfaction with its performance as a cruising boat, with many "reasonably impressed" with its sailing capabilities. The designation as "Best Value Cruiser for 2009" by Cruising World magazine reflects a positive reception within the sailing community, acknowledging its balance of features and cost. While some discussions among owners touch upon the boat's relatively light ballast and its potential for tenderness, the overall sentiment highlights its suitability as an "ideal sailing boat for those who want to escape," emphasizing its comfortable and inviting living spaces. The presence of active owner communities and forums further underscores the boat's enduring popularity and the camaraderie among its enthusiasts.