The world's largest series shipyard will enrich this year's autumn trade fairs with a new ship from the successful First series. From November, the 27.7 will replace the previous 260 Spirit model and emphasise Bénéteau's role as an innovation leader in the industry with a variety of interesting solutions.
The new First will undoubtedly be one of the most modern and efficient vessels in the 8-metre class. A lifting keel also predestines the ship for inland waterways. The draught can be varied from 60 centimetres to 2.15 (!). The 27.7 will sail very stiffly. This is because the ballast (450 kilos) is concentrated on the keel bomb and thus guarantees a very high righting moment.
For the first time, the French are using the vacuum process for the hull. This allows the hull to be built more rigidly with less weight than with the conventional hand lay-up method. With a displacement of only 2.2 tonnes and a length of 8.30 metres, the yacht is also one of the lightweights.
The straight stem and wide tail are striking. Both indicate a high speed potential. The waterline length (LWL) is identical to the hull length.
Although Bénéteau did not want to give any price details yet, according to YACHT information, the FIrst 27.7 is likely to cost between 40,000 and 50,000 euros. Apparently, the shipyard will offer various levels of fittings and equipment to make the entry-level price as favourable as possible, especially for younger owners.
Jochen Rieker
Herausgeber YACHT
