Figaro 3 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The narrative of the Figaro 3 began in 2018 with its initial production, marking a significant evolution in the highly competitive Figaro class. The design brief, meticulously crafted by the Figaro class itself, called for a new entry-level racing yacht that would push the boundaries of performance. Beneteau entrusted this ambitious project to VPLP, a firm renowned for its expertise in high-performance yacht design. Their philosophy centered on creating a boat that would not only be fast but also enable sailors to develop skills transferable to other foiling offshore platforms.

Beneteau's manufacturing ethos, particularly for its performance lines, has always emphasized combining innovative design with efficient, robust production. For the Figaro 3, this translated into a highly rigorous construction process at their Cheviré plant in Nantes, ensuring minimal differences between each boat to uphold the strict one-design principles of the class. The Figaro 3 represented a radical departure from its predecessors, notably being 100 to 150 kg lighter than the Figaro 2 despite the addition of its defining feature: a pair of independent and retractable carbon/epoxy foils. Beyond the foils, the design incorporates a performance-optimized, ballast-free hull, a more slender and deeper bulb keel, a setback mast, and a more expansive sail plan, all contributing to its advanced capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Figaro 3 is engineered for pure performance, with its design ratios reflecting a highly potent and agile racing machine. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 31.15, the Figaro 3 boasts an exceptionally high power-to-weight ratio. This indicates a boat that will be incredibly responsive and capable of generating significant speed, especially in light to moderate air, ensuring thrilling performance across various wind conditions. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio, around 35%, combined with a deep bulb keel, provides substantial stability, allowing the boat to carry its impressive sail plan effectively and stand up to more wind. Furthermore, the Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 234 suggests a relatively light and performance-oriented hull form for its length, consistent with its racing pedigree.

The most defining characteristic of the Figaro 3's performance is its innovative foiling capability. These independent, retractable foils significantly enhance the boat's speed, particularly off the wind, by providing dynamic lift and reducing wetted surface area. Anecdotal evidence from its inaugural racing season highlighted its strong performance, with positive feedback on its speed potential. The design also features a stiff rig, which is crucial for efficient power delivery from its larger sail plan. For single-handed and short-handed ocean racing, the Figaro 3 is reported to offer manageable sail handling, a critical factor for a boat of its high-performance caliber. The integration of foils was also intended to provide a platform for sailors to develop skills applicable to cutting-edge offshore boats, making it a relevant training and racing tool.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its primary purpose as a dedicated one-design offshore racing yacht, the Beneteau Figaro 3's interior accommodations are designed for functionality and efficiency rather than extensive comfort or luxurious cruising. While specific detailed layouts are not widely publicized, it is understood that the interior is minimalist, prioritizing space for essential racing equipment, navigation, and crew rest during demanding offshore passages. The layout typically features a basic V-berth forward, a functional galley area for meal preparation, and a simple head compartment. Storage is optimized for racing necessities, with an emphasis on keeping weight central and accessible. The finish quality and materials reflect Beneteau's robust construction, but within the context of a high-performance racing vessel, meaning durable, easily cleanable surfaces are preferred over elaborate wood trim. Ventilation would be achieved through deck hatches and portlights, crucial for long periods at sea.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and participants in the Figaro 3 class consistently praise the boat for its cutting-edge design and exhilarating performance, particularly the dynamic benefits of its foiling system. The class provides a challenging yet accessible platform for aspiring and professional offshore racers, with the one-design rule ensuring that success is primarily attributed to sailing skill rather than equipment advantage. The community surrounding the Figaro 3 is vibrant, with active training and racing circuits. The boat's ease of sail handling, even for its high-performance nature, is often cited as a strength, particularly valuable for solo offshore racing. While dedicated racing machines typically have a different set of "problems" than cruising boats, the rigor of one-design production and Beneteau's established manufacturing ensures a consistent and robust platform for competitive sailing.