Shipyard Beneteau

Founded in 1884 in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France, Beneteau is a global powerhouse in motorboat building. Its motor-vessel history began with the launch of a fishing trawler in 1909. The yard is distinguished by technologically advanced series production of reliable, ergonomic and accessible family boats and yachts. Its motorboat division produces more than 2,500 hulls annually.

Technology and innovation

The Gran Turismo cruiser, Swift Trawler and Antares ranges brought the yard worldwide recognition. Beyond intelligent layouts, Beneteau patented Air Step and Air Step 2 technology, which creates an air cushion beneath the hull to reduce friction with the water, reportedly cutting fuel consumption by 15–20% while increasing speed.Another major innovation is Elium thermoplastic resin. Working with chemicals group Arkema, Beneteau introduced recyclable resin into boatbuilding. Unlike conventional fiberglass composites, Elium-based hulls can be recycled at the end of their service life and their composite material reused, addressing the industry’s problem of disposing of ageing boats. Existing methods—grinding, oxygen-free heating or acid dissolution—can be costly or environmentally problematic.

Shipyard bestsellers

The historic Swift Trawler 34 and 44 were pioneering bestsellers that shaped the brand’s DNA and won Motorboat of the Year awards. They demonstrated that a classic trawler concept could be fast, manoeuvrable and comfortable for family cruising.The Beneteau Grand Trawler 62, a flagship and major success, won European Powerboat of the Year in the displacement category and a prestigious Italian Motorboat Award. Judges recognized its exceptional 1,050-nautical-mile range, build quality and innovative living spaces. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 54, a new technology leader for the yard, was recognized at the Motor Boat Awards as Best Passagemaker of the Year.

Development and vision

Motorboat production takes place at automated factories in France and the United States, specializing in vacuum-infused composites and modular assembly. The yard is focusing on environmental modernization and electrification of popular ranges. Another strategic direction is bringing the digital capabilities of smaller boats closer to those of modern premium cars.The yard’s strategic objective is to equip 100% of new motor and sailing boats across the group’s brands with Seanapps smart connectivity modules. Beneteau aims to evolve from a manufacturer into a service-oriented technology company. Using big data from thousands of boats, AI could predict component failures before they occur (predictive maintenance) and automatically notify owners or dealers when parts need replacing.

New Generation 

Over the past few years, French shipyard Beneteau has been undertaking a comprehensive renewal of its model range, continuously refining design, technology, and onboard space optimization. Significant changes have been introduced across two of its key motor yacht ranges — Swift Trawler and Gran Turismo.The new generation of Swift Trawler offers a modern interpretation of comfortable cruising yachts, designed for extended voyages, fuel efficiency, and greater autonomy. Meanwhile, the completely reimagined Gran Turismo range features a more distinctive sporty design, innovative layouts, and enhanced opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment on the water.