A momentous start to 2026 for BENETEAU

This year’s boot Düsseldorf has proved to be a standout event for BENETEAU.

For the first time ever, the brand’s spectacular First 60 and First 36SE performance cruising yachts were unveiled at an exclusive launch event, drawing strong attention from the international boating community.

At the same time, Beneteau celebrated 40 years of the iconic Oceanis range, a family of yachts that has now surpassed 30,000 boats.

Furthermore, the popular First 30 was crowned European Yacht of the Year 2026, and the Swift Trawler 37 secured top honour at the Motor Boat Awards 2026.

World Premieres at boot Düsseldorf

New First 60

As the largest sailboat ever designed within the Beneteau FIRST family, the First 60 represents the culmination of nearly 50 years of expertise, blending performance, design, and innovation into a single yacht.

At 60 feet, this yacht is designed for sailors seeking more than just performance; the First 60 embodies a philosophy centred on balance, precision, and the pure pleasure of sailing.

Practical innovation also plays a central role, with standout features including a captive mainsheet winch for precise sail control, adaptive steering ergonomics, and a walk-around winch island that centralises all running rigging for safe, seamless manoeuvres.

New Gran Turismo 50 Alpine Limited Edition

BENETEAU also showcased the new Gran Turismo 50 Alpine Limited Edition at Boot Düsseldorf. Created through a unique collaboration with Alpine, this exclusive model brings together two iconic French brands.

With sporty DNA, Alpine-inspired finishes, and bold contemporary design, the Gran Turismo 50 redefines premium express cruising by combining performance, elegance, and craftsmanship into a striking limited-edition package.

Discover why the Beneteau GT50 is so special

International Awards

Beneteau First 30 Wins European Yacht of the Year 2026

The Beneteau First 30 achieved a major milestone by winning the European Yacht of the Year 2026 award in the performance cruiser category.

These awards are judged by an expert panel comprising test directors and editors-in-chief from Europe’s leading sailing publications, and winners are selected following rigorous multi-day sea trials.

In the monohull class, the First 30 was the stand-out winner with a unanimous vote. This stylish light-weight racer-cruiser was praised for its ability to deliver superb performance sailing while offering exceptional value for money in its class.

Read our Beneteau First 30 review 

Beneteau Swift Trawler 37 Wins Motor Boat Award 2026

Power boating success followed with the Beneteau Swift Trawler 37, which was named Best Flybridge up to 55ft at the Motor Boat Awards 2026.

These awards are judged by technical experts from Motorboat & Yachting magazine following extensive sea trials and detailed evaluation, focusing not only on performance but also on how well a boat meets the expectations of its target market in terms of size, style, and price.

As a successor to the Swift Trawler 35, the Swift Trawler 37 introduces a refined design with a lowered superstructure, raised foredeck, and one-piece reverse screen. Generous glazing in both the hull and wheelhouse contributes to a bright, modern feel, resulting in a trawler yacht that stands out for its appearance.

The jury also highlighted the boat’s strong value proposition – despite being larger, the Swift Trawler 37 is priced competitively, and less than the ST35.

“The ST37 takes all the proven qualities of its predecessor and makes everything bigger, better, slicker and (remarkably) cheaper – and you really can’t argue with that.” – Motorboat & Yacting Magazine

View the Beneteau Swift Trawler 37

Celebrating 40 Years of Beneteau Oceanis

In parallel with these magnificent launches and awards, Beneteau is celebrating 40 years of the Oceanis range. First introduced in 1986, Oceanis sailing yachts have continually evolved, guided by a passion for cruising and a commitment to innovation.

Across eight generations of models, the range has adapted to sailors’ changing expectations while remaining true to Beneteau’s spirit of audacity.

Today, more than 30,000 Oceanis yachts explore the world’s oceans, forming a global community of owners united by shared on-water adventures.

View the Beneteau Oceanis range

An unforgettable start to the year for Beneteau

Overall, Boot Düsseldorf 2026 has been an exceptional event for Beneteau, defined by world premieres, prestigious international awards, and a major anniversary for one of the most influential cruising ranges in sailing history.

Together, these premieres, awards, and anniversaries make 2026 a defining year for Beneteau – one that highlights both the brand’s innovative future and its enduring legacy on the water.

To find out more about any of the Beneteau yachts mentioned, please get in touch with our Beneteau brand managers James Douch and Sam Room:

Call: 02380 450 000

Email: [email protected]