Beneteau 36.7 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau First 36.7 began its production run in 2002, though it was first unveiled in the fall of 2001, and continued to be built until 2021, showcasing its enduring appeal in the market. Designed by Bruce Farr of Farr Yacht Design, the 36.7 was conceived with a clear objective: to create a sailboat that offered a more luxurious interior than its high-performance predecessors while simultaneously delivering impressive speed. This design philosophy aligns perfectly with Beneteau's broader ethos during that era, which emphasized balancing performance, comfort, and affordability across their recreational sailboat lines, particularly within the performance-oriented "First" series. Beneteau, a builder with a rich history dating back to 1884 and a pivotal transition to fiberglass construction in the 1960s, embraced innovative design freedoms offered by new materials.

The First 36.7 was offered with two primary keel options to suit different sailing needs: a deep keel drawing 7 feet, 2 inches (7.17 ft / 2.20m), and a shallower draft version at 5.2 feet (1.58m). This choice allowed owners to optimize their vessel for either deeper racing venues or more accessible cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau First 36.7 is widely recognized for its strong sailing performance, especially upwind. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 19.2, she boasts a relatively high sail area for her displacement, suggesting excellent performance in lighter air conditions. Her displacement to length ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 206.2 places her firmly in the lower end of the medium displacement category, indicating a performance-oriented hull that prioritizes speed and agility.

While her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of approximately 0.293 might suggest a less stiff boat compared to heavier cruisers, this characteristic is often indicative of a performance design that seeks to reduce overall wetted surface for speed. Owners frequently describe the First 36.7 as a "great racer cruiser" that "goes upwind like a train in any breeze," highlighting her impressive ability to point and power through the water. Under power, the boat handles effectively, providing good maneuverability. However, some anecdotal owner reports suggest that her downwind tracking in stronger winds (over 30 knots) can be challenging, with one description noting it "doesn't track at all" or "like a beachball." Overall, she is praised for being user-friendly and well-balanced for her performance capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its strong emphasis on performance, the Beneteau First 36.7 features an interior layout thoughtfully designed for cruising comfort, appealing to families and those undertaking extended voyages. The saloon is generously sized, measuring nearly 10 feet on the centerline, offering ample space for relaxation and dining. A notable feature is the maximum headroom, which stands at 6 feet, 2 inches, providing comfortable movement below decks for most individuals.

The typical interior arrangement includes a spacious double quarter berth to port and a single quarter berth, providing flexible sleeping arrangements. The L-shaped galley is positioned to port, offering functional space for meal preparation. While specific details on the finish quality and material choices were not extensively detailed in the provided context, Beneteau's general reputation for producing "thoughtfully designed yachts" with "comfortable interiors" suggests a practical and aesthetically pleasing finish for its class and era, balancing robust construction with recreational appeal.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau First 36.7 consistently commend its dual nature as a highly capable racer and a comfortable cruiser. Its primary strength lies in its strong performance, particularly upwind, which makes it a formidable contender in one-design racing fleets and a satisfying boat for spirited sailing. Many appreciate its solid construction and overall balance, finding it user-friendly for both racing and leisure.

However, some common points raised by owners include challenging downwind tracking in heavy air and comments regarding the wheel and head size being on the smaller side for some. While corrosion is a general concern on older Beneteau vessels, it is not cited as a unique or widespread issue specific to the 36.7 model. Overall, the Beneteau First 36.7 is viewed by its owners as a compelling choice for those prioritizing racing performance without fully sacrificing interior comforts, embodying the "racer-cruiser" ideal.