Baroudeur (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

As one of Beneteau's foundational fiberglass models, the Baroudeur embodies the builder's transition from traditional wooden fishing vessels to a new era of leisure yachts. Her design reflects the company's evolving manufacturing ethos during the 1970s, prioritizing efficient production and robust build quality, which contributed to Beneteau's burgeoning reputation for value and reliability.

History and Design

The Beneteau Baroudeur was introduced in 1970, with production continuing for a decade until 1980. Naval architect André Bénéteau, a key figure in the company's history and its shift to fiberglass construction, designed the Baroudeur. His design philosophy for this model centered on creating an "excellent sailboat" that was easy to handle, powerful, and stable. The Baroudeur's robust hull was specifically engineered to ensure high performance and stability at sea, even when navigating challenging conditions.

The prevalence of the "Baroudeur MKII" designation in later years suggests either an initial iteration or that the MKII became the standard and most recognized version of the design throughout its production run. This continued refinement was typical for Beneteau, a builder that consistently embraced the design freedoms offered by fiberglass to develop recreational sailboats appealing to a growing leisure market.

Sailing Performance and Handling

Despite its modest length overall of 22.31 feet, the Beneteau Baroudeur is consistently described as a stable and capable performer. She is noted as an "excellent sailboat" that is easy to steer, powerful, and stable. Her design incorporates a long keel and a transom-hung rudder, which typically contributes to good directional stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers often highlight her robust build and high-performance hull, which collectively ensure excellent stability even in more demanding conditions. This makes the Baroudeur a reliable and easy-to-handle boat, well-suited for coastal cruising and day-sailing enthusiasts.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its compact size, the Beneteau Baroudeur offers practical and functional accommodations, typical of small cruisers of its era. The interior layout generally features a cabin with a table and around five bunks, often equipped with thick mattresses for comfort. While specific details on headroom and finish quality are not consistently available, Beneteau's reputation for efficient production and robust construction suggests a sensible and durable interior, likely utilizing fiberglass elements combined with practical finishes characteristic of early fiberglass boats. The design prioritizes essential comforts within the limitations of its length, aiming to provide a serviceable base for weekend excursions or short coastal voyages.