Beneteau launches new boat: First 44
BENETEAU’s First 44 has been released, and it’s not an understatement to describe her as the picture of elegance.
The natural link between the FIRST 36 and the FIRST 53, the First 44 has been officially released. The superb yacht combines performance, elegance, and comfort with the exceptional design standards and innovation for which BENETEAU is known.
Available in two main set ups, the FIRST 44 and First 44 Performance, the craft is the ultimate racer/cruiser. The powerful and well-balanced hull was designed by Roberto Biscontini, who is well known for his classy and high-performance designs. The choice of two deck designs means that the needs of all seafaring enthusiasts will be met.
Featuring a welcoming and well-designed cockpit, the FIRST 44 design offers sailors two side decks that converge to a cockpit table.
It’s not just the exceptional design that sets the FIRST 44 apart from the rest, it’s the use of innovative new technology that means the yacht can reach its full potential, even with a reduced crew. There are twin 80-gallon ballasts that can be activated electronically from the helm station, meaning that even a small crew can enjoy the power and beauty of this craft.
While the yacht can be enjoyed by just a few people, it is also perfect for a full crew. In fact, the FIRST 44’s deck ergonomics were studied and developed to suit a full regatta crew. Other features include a 1.3m (4.5ft) bowsprit, a hydraulic backstay, a powerful in-hauler system, and a performance keel/mast combo.
The interior of the yacht was developed with the genius touch of Lorenzo Argento. The elegant interior features three cabins and a salon and galley perfect for entertaining. The clever design infuses a real sense of space — something that is lacking in many other designs. Lorenzo’s layout complements the spacious and innovative deck and hull design.
“At our level we tried to reproduce this fluidity and this spirit through the deck design and interior arrangements, by both maximising the use of volumes and minimising the impact of whatever restriction we encountered”, stated Lorenzo.
Known for its commitment to perfection, BENETEAU has created an elegant gem for racers and cruisers. Available at Sundance Marine, the FIRST 44 will enjoy her world premiere at the 2022 Yachting Festival de Cannes.
PROVISIONAL GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
LOA (FIRST 44) 14.15 m (46ft 5in)
LOA (FIRST 44 PERFORMANCE) 14.65 m (48ft 1in)
Hull length 13.15m (43ft 2in)
Beam 4.25 m (13ft 11in)
Standard draft (T-keel) 2.15m (7ft 1in)
Standard ballast weight (cast iron) 3300 kg
Performance draft (T-keel) 2.60 m 8ft 6in)
Performance ballast weight (cast iron / lead) 3000 kg
Standard air draft 19.5 m (63ft 8in)
Light displacement (FIRST 44) 10,300kg
Light displacement (FIRST 44 PERFORMANCE) 9800kg
Fuel capacity (standard) 220L (58 US gallons)
Fresh water capacity (standard) (330L) 87 gallons)
Engine power (standard) 57 CV 57 hp