Contact:
Erika Gay
Marketing Manager, Beneteau USA, INC.
843-629-5300

Marion, SC… The First 50, the new flagship model of Beneteau’s First range, will be making her first appearances at 2006 Fall Boat Shows.

"The efficiency of a yacht's design is shown by its ability to harness the streams of air and water and to leave them in its wake in an unaltered state... and these are the characteristics of the First 50." This philosophy of yacht designer Philippe Briand neatly summarizes the concept that inspired Beneteau in the design and development of this new pure performance yacht – the concept behind the mega-yachts. This combines sophisticated aesthetics with state of the art technologies in the fulfilment of a single idea – the pleasure of sailing to utter perfection.

With the First 50, Beneteau sets out to conquer the realm of the Performance Cruisers, those dream yachts with exclusive elegance, their pure and sleek lines, their subtle aesthetic and their taunt deck plan design.

The sleek hull shape, modern appendices (torpedo keel bulb) and their high aspect ratios, together with an impressive rig impart a distinct sensation of power to this 50-foot Performance Cruiser.

In the tradition of mega-yachts, everything contributes towards the purity of lines: the integration of functional elements and hardware on deck, forestay set aft, the genoa furling drum below deck level, folding bow roller fitting, lowered coachroof, etc.

The cockpit is highly ergonomic with its double helm position and genoa winches within easy reach, and all control lines led to the coachroof winches. It opens wide to the sea with its ingenious bathing platform for increased comfort and enjoyment.

Numerous flush deck hatches and openings fill the interior with brightness so that life on board resonates with sophisticated satisfaction and calm. A new wood associated with elegant materials used for the first time by Beneteau and refined lines bring a sensation of well-being and innovation. The interior layout respects the classic functionality of the chart table and galley area and provides a deluxe owner’s cabin with private shower and head compartment, as well as two generously sized aft cabins.

We invite you to discover the new First 50 at the official introduction to the American market at the Annapolis Sailboat show in October or visit us online at beneteauusa.com.

Beneteau USA, the American division of the world’s largest sailboat manufacturer, builds hundreds of 32-49 foot production sailboats, as well as the Swift Trawler 42, in Marion, SC and imports sailing yachts up to 57 feet in length from its parent company in France. The boats are sold through a network of over 40 dealers from the north in Alaska to the southern tip of Chile.

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Erika Gay