Beneteau First 30 Earns Top Honors in Cruising World 2026 Boat of the Year Preview
At Signature Yachts, we’re proud to represent boats that truly elevate the sailing experience and the Beneteau First 30 continues to do exactly that.
The Beneteau First 30 continues to prove that big performance doesn’t have to come in a big package. In Cruising World’s 2026 Boat of the Year preview, the First 30 stood out as one of the most exciting and accessible performance sailboats in the lineup drawing praise from judges for its speed, handling, and exceptional value.
This recognition adds to a growing list of international awards and reinforces the First 30’s reputation as one of the most important modern sailboat designs in its size range.
A Standout in the 2026 Boat of the Year Fleet
Each year, Cruising World evaluates the most innovative new sailboats on the market, testing them in real-world conditions with an experienced judging panel. In the 2026 Boat of the Year preview, the Beneteau First 30 made an immediate impression.
Among a field of significantly larger and far more expensive yachts, the First 30 was noted as the most affordable boat in the fleet, while still delivering performance and sailing enjoyment that rivaled boats many times its price. Judges highlighted its lively acceleration, balanced helm, and the unmistakable thrill of planing in moderate conditions.
At a time when many new boats prioritize volume and systems, the First 30 reminded judges of something essential: the pure joy of sailing.
Designed to Plane and Designed to Be Sailed
The First 30 is the result of a collaboration between Beneteau, Seascape, and designer Samuel Manuard, blending offshore-inspired hull design with everyday usability.
Key design highlights include:
• A lightweight, wide stern hull form that promotes early planing
• Twin rudders for control and confidence at speed
• A powerful sail plan that rewards active sailing
• Simple, functional systems that keep the focus on performance
The result is a boat that feels equally at home daysailing, weekend cruising, or lining up for a spirited race without overwhelming owner
An Award-Winning Track Record
The Cruising World recognition builds on an already impressive list of accolades for the First 30, including:
• European Yacht of the Year 2026 – Performance Cruiser
• British Yachting Awards 2025 – Performance Yacht of the Year
• Voilier de l’Année 2026 – Overall Winner (France)
• SAIL Top 10 Best Boats – 2026
These awards reflect a rare consensus among industry experts, editors, and everyday sailors alike: the First 30 delivers something truly special on the water.
Why the First 30 Resonates with Today’s Sailors
The success of the Beneteau First 30 highlights a shift in what many sailors are looking for:
• Performance without intimidation
• Modern design without unnecessary complexity
• A boat that rewards skill but remains approachable
• Strong value in an increasingly expensive market
For sailors stepping up from daysailers or downsizing from larger boats, the First 30 hits a sweet spot, offering real speed, modern aesthetics, and manageable ownership.
A Modern Take on a Classic Name
The First 30 also pays homage to the original Beneteau First models that helped define performance cruising decades ago. This new generation honors that legacy while embracing contemporary hull design, materials, and sailing expectations.
Experience the Beneteau First 30
Recognition from Cruising World and the global sailing press confirms what owners are already discovering: the Beneteau First 30 is one of the most exciting sailboats in its class today.
If you’d like to learn more about the First 30, schedule a private showing, or discuss whether this award-winning design is the right fit for your sailing plans, the team at Signature Yachts is here to help.