BENETEAU, in collaboration with Seascape, has launched the First 36 SE (Seascape Edition) – a purpose-built planing racer designed to reignite pure sailing passion. More than just a boat, the First 36 SE embodies a mindset: the “SE” badge signifies a commitment to race-grade performance and membership in a global community of over 1,000 sailors united by courage and curiosity.
The Mission: Bringing Sailors Back to the Heart of Sailing with First 36 SE
The First SE range exists to reconnect sailors with the essence of the sport. This mission thrives on three pillars: high-performance boats engineered to push boundaries, sailors willing to venture beyond their comfort zones, and a vibrant international community. The First 36 SE evolves from the Rolex Middle Sea Race-winning First 36 platform. To unlock its full potential, BENETEAU assembled an unparalleled design team: naval architect Samuel Manuard (creator of the original First 36), design legend Bernard Nivelt, and ORC rule specialist Maurizio Cossutti. Together, they focused on creating a “thoroughbred ORC racer” optimized for both fully crewed and double-handed racing. Early test ORC certificates confirm significant performance gains, with an APH of approximately 520 fully crewed and around 530 for double-handed teams.
Engineering Breakthroughs: Lighter, Faster, More Connected
The First 36 SE achieves its transformative performance through meticulous engineering. A foundational 400 kg (881 lbs) weight reduction versus the standard First 36 – combined with a redesigned bow knuckle that shortens the waterline and reduces wetted surface area by nearly 3 m² (32 ft²), the boat delivers explosive acceleration and sustains planing in winds as low as 12 knots true wind speed (TWS).
The cockpit is radically optimized for racing responsiveness. Twin steering wheels are replaced by a single tiller, providing direct, intuitive helm feedback. An integrated e-bar system allows fine-tuning of tiller angle, while soft foam deck grip enhances safety during aggressive maneuvers. Flush racing valves and a carbon rig come standard, further elevating performance. Naval architect Samuel Manuard confirmed the impact after initial sails: “After first sail I can confidently say First 36 SE is a racing boat! The 10% less displacement compared to the First 36 is something you really feel. Today we were planing in light wind conditions, which is excellent. The boat is very responsive to the helm. You can place the bow exactly where you want it and feel completely in control.”
Sailor Tested: Uncompromising Joy and Control
First 36 owner and designer Lorenzo Argento experienced the SE’s responsiveness firsthand: “Today, I had the chance to sail the new First 36 SE… I was truly surprised by the acceleration and the level of control. The tiller gives you a much closer, more direct feel. The SE version is lighter, cleaner, and designed to fully unleash the planing potential of the boat—and you can really feel that. Even when walking on board, the boat responds immediately.”
Seascape CEO Andraž Mihelin emphasized its exceptional balance and accessibility: *”The First 36 SE was designed to provide an unparalleled connection to the ancient art of sailing… Compared to the First 36, she is more responsive, more precise, reacts quicker in light sticky conditions, and starts planing in as little as 12kt TWS. I’m now convinced she is arguably the fastest and most fun 36-ft production boat on the market.”* Twin rudders ensure stability and prevent broaching even at high speeds, making it equally adept for double-handed or fully crewed racing.
The First 36 SE Ethos: Performance Without Compromise
While engineered as a dedicated racer, the 36 SE retains the core cruising amenities of the standard First 36, executed in a lighter, more focused manner. It perfectly encapsulates the First SE philosophy: cutting-edge boats that challenge sailors, a community that inspires adventure, and an unwavering focus on transforming wind into pure sailing joy.