First Beneteau First 45 in Singapore

by Simpson Marine on 4 Aug 2008 Arriving this August via Simpson Marine – an exclusive dealer for Beneteau in Southeast Asia - is the highly-anticipated 14-metre Beneteau First 45 – a first for Singapore waters, which further complements the new generation ‘First’ range throughout the region.

The First 45 (45ft), a thoroughbred cruiser with an innovative hull from the world’s largest sailboat builder is a smaller version of the First 50, and has become immensely popular with impressive sailing results at international events. This includes podium first at the Spi Ouest (France), Trofeo Stendardo (Italy) and Bell Lawrie Scottish Series (UK) 2008 sailing events, with a close second position finish at the Obelix Trophy in France, and third at the Red Funnel Easter challenge in the UK.

According to William Schick, Senior Broker at Simpson Marine in Singapore, the arrival of the First 45 to Singapore is a significant event. “There is a growing demand for Beneteau yachts and the arrival of the First 45 racer cruiser is an indicative sign that the interest in competitive sailing is picking up and is set to continue.”

The First 45, launched at the Paris Boat Show in December 2007, has been a popular addition to the Beneteau First range of high-performance yachts produced by reputable naval designer P. Briand. First’s are red-hot on the racing circuit in Asia with over 15 boats in local waters and additional orders in place for 2008.

James Rayner, Simpson Marine’s Beneteau Brand Manager, says he believes the new model to Singapore is a great design for the local boating conditions and regional sailing regattas. “Asia is an important emerging market for Groupe Beneteau, which already has a solid selection of sailing and powerboats in local waters, and plans to launch a number of new models each year,” adds Rayner.

Earlier this year, Beneteau announced the launch of the new First 40 model scheduled for production release this September 2008, with additional new sail models, which include the Oceanis 34 and Oceanis 54. The Beneteau power range has also been boosted with a series of new models, to be launched later this year, including two Antares the 11 and 750 OB, four Flyer models – the 650SD, 850SD 550 Cabrio and 650 Cabrio and two new MonteCarlo models – the 27 and 47. In reflection of the high-standard of the Beneteau First range, the First 40.7 was named Best Sailing Yacht (under 50ft) at the prestigious Christofle awards in Shanghai earlier this year.