Design and Construction
Marc Lombard’s hull measures 10.15 meters overall, with a 9.82 meter waterline and a beam of 3.43 meters. The hull and deck are built from glass-reinforced polyester with a PVC foam core. Below the water, a modern fin keel and spade rudder provide excellent maneuverability.
The hull design balances speed, stability, and seaworthiness. Strong structural integrity and a practical deck plan reflect the boat’s focus on offshore safety and handling in challenging conditions. A self-draining cockpit and secure handholds complete the deck-safety package, helping make the Figaro II a trustworthy boat when the weather turns.
Rig, Handling, and Performance
The Figaro II carries a fractional sloop rig intended for easy handling by one or two sailors. Sail controls are led aft to the cockpit, allowing the crew to trim without leaving the helm. The rigging and sail systems also support quick reefing and adjustment—important when a solo sailor sees a squall approaching.
The boat is known for strong upwind performance and good pointing ability. It accelerates quickly while remaining controlled in rough seas, and the hull shape and keel provide the stable, balanced ride that matters when one person must manage everything alone.
The Figaro II lacks the foiling technology of newer designs, but its conventional, well-tuned performance remains competitive on offshore circuits.
Accommodations
This is a race-focused boat with a spartan interior designed for function rather than comfort. It provides the basics for short-term offshore campaigns: minimal sleeping quarters, a small galley, and essential storage. Throughout the interior, weight and space are managed for racing efficiency, so long-term cruising comfort is limited.
Sailors moving from cruising designs should understand the trade-off. The Figaro II gives up liveaboard ease in favor of the stripped-down, purposeful interior required for solo racing.
Verdict
The Beneteau Figaro II is a purpose-built one-design racer that offers the short-handed sailor responsive handling, a safe deck, and a competitive legacy in classic offshore racing. It isn’t a cruiser and doesn’t pretend to be one; its value lies in its clear purpose and disciplined execution.
Pros
- Designed from the outset for solo and double-handed offshore racing
- Fin keel and spade rudder provide excellent maneuverability and balance
- Self-draining cockpit, secure handholds, and strong structure support offshore safety
- Fractional rig and controls led aft make single-handed sail trim practical
Cons
- Spartan interior, minimal galley, and limited sleeping space restrict cruising use
- Lacks the foiling and newer performance technology found in later designs
