Beneteau Blue II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Unlike the modern "floating apartment" style of contemporary catamarans, the Blue II was designed with a focus on hydrodynamic efficiency. Its hulls are relatively slim, and the overall profile is low to the water, which reduces windage significantly compared to newer designs. This design choice, a hallmark of Philippe Briand’s philosophy, allows the boat to perform admirably on a reach. According to historical technical data from the Beneteau Group Archive, the vessel utilizes a fractional sloop rig that is manageable for a small crew.

Handling is characterized by a level of responsiveness rarely found in cruising catamarans of this size. Because it lacks the massive displacement and high center of gravity of modern multihulls, it does not suffer from the same "hobby-horsing" in a chop, though its low bridgedeck clearance does lead to occasional slamming in following or head seas. On the helm, owners frequently report that the boat provides genuine feedback, allowing the sailor to trim for speed rather than just pointing the bows in a general direction. While it uses fixed low-aspect keels rather than daggerboards, its windward performance is respectable for a 1980s cruiser, provided the hulls are kept clean and the sails are well-shaped.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Blue II is a masterclass in 1980s marine ergonomics, utilizing every inch of its roughly 34-foot (10.35m) length. The bridgedeck salon is the focal point, offering 360-degree views through large wrap-around windows—a feature that was revolutionary at the time and remains a primary selling point today. The galley is typically located on the bridgedeck level, ensuring the cook remains part of the social activity in the salon, while the hulls contain the sleeping quarters and heads.

Beneteau offered the Blue II in a few variations, though the most common configuration includes two double cabins in the aft sections of the hulls. In some "Club" or charter versions, the forward sections were also utilized for additional berths or storage, though these can feel somewhat cramped due to the narrowing of the hulls. The woodwork is typical of Beneteau’s "First" series of the same era—warm tones with molded fiberglass liners that are easy to maintain but can feel dated to those accustomed to modern, minimalist interiors. Headroom is excellent in the hulls, though the bridgedeck requires a slight duck for taller sailors as they move toward the forward windows.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Beneteau Blue II should approach the survey with a focus on its age and specific catamaran stresses:

1. Bridgedeck Clearance & Slamming: The bridgedeck sits relatively low to the waterline. While this aids stability and reduces windage, it makes the boat prone to "slamming" in short, steep waves. During a sea trial, listen for heavy structural thumping; while usually not a safety issue, it can be fatiguing on long passages.
2. Balsa Core Integrity: Like many Beneteaus from the 1980s, the deck is balsa-cored. Use a moisture meter and a phenolic hammer to check for soft spots, particularly around the mast step and the stanchion bases where water ingress is most common.
3. Crossbeam Connections: The integrity of the forward crossbeam (which supports the forestay) is critical. Inspect the mounting points for any signs of stress cracking or corrosion in the aluminum spar.
4. Engine Access: Many units were powered by twin 10hp or 18hp Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesels located in the aft hull compartments. Access is notoriously tight; buyers should check for deferred maintenance on items like heat exchangers and raw water pumps, which are difficult to reach.

Community & Resources

The Blue II benefits from the massive global infrastructure of the Beneteau brand. While it does not have a dedicated "Blue II Only" association, owners are widely welcomed within the broader Beneteau Owners Association and various multihull forums. Technical drawings and original specifications are still maintained by Beneteau’s heritage department, which is a significant advantage over defunct builders of the same era.

The Verdict

The Beneteau Blue II is a "sailor’s catamaran" that prioritizes aesthetics and performance over sheer interior volume. It is an ideal entry-level multihull for those moving from monohulls who want to maintain a sense of speed and agility while gaining the stability and shallow draft of a catamaran.

Pros:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Sleek, low-profile design that has aged better than many of its contemporaries.
• Visibility: Exceptional 360-degree views from the salon.
• Ease of Handling: Simple rig and manageable size for single-handed or couple cruising.
• Build Pedigree: Designed by Philippe Briand and built by one of the world's most stable manufacturers.

Cons:

• Low Bridgedeck: Slamming in choppy seas can be noisy and uncomfortable.
• Dated Interiors: 1980s fiberglass and wood finishes lack the modern feel of newer yachts.
• Limited Storage: Slim hulls provide less storage capacity than modern "fat-hull" cruising cats.