Idylle 1350 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Idylle 1350 in 1983 emerged from Beneteau's ongoing evolution, particularly following their pivotal transition to fiberglass construction in the 1960s. This shift allowed the builder to embrace new design freedoms and efficiently produce recreational sailboats appealing to a growing leisure market. German Frers, the naval designer, specifically aimed for the Idylle 1350 to offer a balance of "yachting as well as pleasure, sailing as well as performance, cruising as well as comfort." Beneteau's general philosophy during this period, and throughout its history, has been to collaborate with top designers to produce well-built, thoughtfully designed yachts that balance performance, comfort, and affordability. During its production, variations of the Idylle 1350 included a "shorter rig" option and a specific version built for 'The Moorings' Charter Company, sometimes referred to as the 'MOORINGS 43?'.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Idylle 1350, with its generous dimensions, boasts "sleek lines and appreciable nautical performance." Its design metrics reveal insights into its sailing characteristics. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 15.93, the Idylle 1350 is positioned as a capable cruiser. This ratio suggests a balanced performance, allowing the boat to move well in various wind conditions without being overly sensitive to light air or underpowered in strong breezes. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.38 indicates a stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up to significant wind, which is a desirable trait for offshore sailing. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 240.63 places it in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, signifying a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than an emphasis on extreme light-air speed. It has been noted that the Beneteau 1350 Idylle features "more rig than 73% of all similar sailboats," suggesting a good sail-carrying capacity for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Idylle 1350 is designed for comfort and extended cruising, offering a notably "spacious interior." Typically configured with a two-cabin, two-head layout, it provides ample privacy and convenience for a cruising family or two couples. The headroom within the cabin is generous, reportedly around 1.90 meters (approximately 6.23 feet), allowing most occupants to move freely and comfortably below deck. While specific details on interior finishes and materials for the Idylle 1350 are not readily available in generalized reviews, Beneteau's broader reputation during this era was for creating "comfortable and practical accommodations" with "robust build quality" and "thoughtfully designed yachts." This suggests a focus on durable materials and functional layouts, consistent with a vessel intended for serious cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Idylle 1350 frequently praise its "robust construction, spacious interior and reliable performance." The boat is generally considered to be of satisfactory quality for most cruising sailors, with its widespread presence among private owners and charter businesses attesting to its enduring appeal and functional design. Discussion forums, such as those on SailboatData.com and SailNet Community, indicate an active community of Idylle owners who share knowledge and experiences, underscoring the brand's strong sense of community. These platforms often highlight the boat's suitability for extended voyages and its comfortable motion.