In this version, the racer from the pen of designer Sam Manuard has a carbon fibre mast from the manufacturer Axxon Composites with low-stretch Dyform shrouds. In addition, running rigging with Dyneema core is used for the halyards, sheets and trim lines. In the SE version, the First 36 also has a keel optimised for the IRC handicap format with a new shape. The ballast ratio of the SE keel is slightly higher than that of the standard boat, while the draught is less, 1.95 metres instead of 2.25 metres. The twin-wheel steering of the standard boat is replaced by a single tiller steering.
Above all, however, the attractive performance cruiser has been significantly slimmed down in the interior. The companionway is now made from carbon fibre, the floorboards from a sandwich construction with a foam core. In general, the manufacturer Seascape has dispensed with wood for the interior of the new SE version. Instead, all components are made from lightweight composite materials. In addition, storage compartments are largely replaced by fabric pockets.
Overall, the shipyard can save around 400 kilograms in weight with the Edition Seascape. With a weight of just 4.4 tonnes ready to sail, the First 36 SE is also significantly lighter compared to the competition. Of course, the reduction on the scales is also accompanied by a slightly lower IRC rating. The TCC race rating for the tuned SE version is 1.071. The handicap for the standard version is 1.075.
The SE version of the First 36 costs 351,490 euros gross for the well-equipped, high-quality boat with carbon fibre mast, tiller steering and built-in engine. The price for the standard First 36 boat with aluminium mast is 295,655 euros in the current comparison. In both cases, the sails are not included in the basic price, nor are the electronics. This is generally the case with performance boats.
Strong in direct comparison
The First 36 was one of the competitors for the big YACHT comparison test of performance cruisers in the 11 metre hull length class. The comparison took place in four consecutive issues of YACHT in 2022.
The individual parts of the comparison test:
Technical data Beneteau First 36 SE
- Designer: Sam Manuard YD
- Hull length: 11.00 m
- Overall length with bowsprit: 11.98 m
- Waterline length: 10.25 m
- Width: 3.80 m
- Draught: 1.95 m
- Weight: 4.4 tonnes
- Ballast/proportion: 1.53 t / 34 %
- Sail area downwind: 80.0 m2
- Motorisation: Yanmar built-in diesel 21 kW/ 29 hp
- Propulsion: Saildrive with Gori 2-blade folding propeller (SE version only)
