Figaro II (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The narrative of the Figaro II's creation is deeply intertwined with its racing mandate. Introduced in 2003, the Figaro II succeeded the original Figaro Beneteau 1, marking a significant evolution in the one-design class. Beneteau, a builder with a rich history rooted in both fishing boats and recreational yachts, embraced fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a pivotal move that allowed for more efficient production and lighter hulls. For the Figaro II, Beneteau collaborated with Marc Lombard, known for his innovative and performance-oriented designs, to create a vessel that was both fast and forgiving for single-handed competition. Production of the Figaro II continued until 2018, with 96 units built, solidifying its legacy as a key training and racing platform for aspiring and professional offshore sailors.

Key design innovations distinguish the Figaro II, reflecting its specialized role. It features a robust carbon fiber mast and an aluminum boom, contributing to a powerful yet lightweight rig. A unique aspect of its design is the inclusion of water ballast, which provides an adjustable means of enhancing stability and righting moment during different points of sail, a crucial advantage in varying offshore conditions. Furthermore, the implementation of twin rudders enhances control and responsiveness, particularly when the boat is heeled at speed, allowing for precise steering and maneuverability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Figaro II's specifications translate directly into exceptional sailing performance, distinguishing it as a true racing yacht. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 26.55, the Figaro II possesses a very high power-to-weight ratio, indicating its capability to perform exceedingly well in light air conditions, getting up to speed quickly. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 91.60 categorizes it as an extremely light-displacement vessel relative to its waterline length, further underscoring its design for speed and agility.

While its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio stands at a moderate 36.06% with fixed ballast, the significant feature of water ballast dramatically enhances its effective stability when engaged. This combination allows the Figaro II to stand up to considerable wind pressure, providing stiffness and a stable platform for a high-performance monohull. Anecdotal accounts consistently praise the Figaro II for its speed, maneuverability, and highly responsive handling, particularly due to its twin rudder configuration, which maintains steerage authority even at extreme angles of heel. It is widely regarded as a much faster and more dynamic boat than its predecessor, designed to excel in competitive offshore scenarios.

Accommodations and Layout

Befitting its role as a dedicated offshore racer, the Beneteau Figaro II's interior accommodations are functional and spartan, prioritizing weight savings and practicality over creature comforts typically found in cruising yachts. The layout is designed to support the single-handed sailor or a small racing crew, providing essential facilities without unnecessary frills. Typically, the interior includes a single cabin and a basic head compartment.

While specific headroom details are not provided in standard specifications, the interior is configured to allow for essential operations and brief rests during intense racing periods. Materials and finish quality are robust and durable, engineered to withstand the rigors of competitive sailing rather than offer luxurious aesthetics. Storage is generally optimized for race provisions and safety gear, with limited space for extended cruising amenities. Some owners have even removed the water ballast system to gain additional interior space, highlighting the boat's primary focus on performance over extensive living quarters.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and professional sailors of the Beneteau Figaro II consistently highlight its solid construction and its exceptional performance as a one-design racing platform. Its ability to provide a level playing field for competition in events like the Solitaire du Figaro is highly valued. The boat is praised for its predictable handling characteristics and its capacity to perform in a wide range of conditions, demanding high levels of skill and physical endurance from its operators. While specific "common problems" related to the boat's construction are not widely reported, the nature of single-handed offshore racing on such a vessel means that owners must be prepared for the extreme physical and mental demands, which can lead to personal issues such as seasickness or musculoskeletal discomfort during extended races.