2026 Beneteau First 44 Shoal Draft

2026 Beneteau First 44 Shoal Draft

First 44
Racer-cruiser royalty

This lovely sailing yacht, with a remarkable design, is today the natural link between the First 36 and First 53. It combines performance, elegance and comfort thanks to the quality of its equipment, which offers unequalled sailing pleasure.

With the new First 44, BENETEAU draws to the noblest expression of the term “racer/cruiser”: an elegant and comfortable yacht that provides unequaled pleasure under sail. The generous sail plan allows the First 44 to be lively and efficient in all conditions.

Exterior design
On board the First 44, the cockpit is very convivial with a lovely cockpit table as well as its fluidity with a level access to the large clear gangways. Four winches, a fixed centerline block for the mainsheet and a mast that is set further aft all maximize the potential of her modern sailplan, defined by a slender mainsail and generously sized foresails. Two 350-litre ballast tanks, which can be activated electrically from the helm consoles, make it possible to maintain the boat's full potential.

True to the scientific approach he inherited from the America's Cup, Roberto Biscontini has carried out numerous simulations and iterations to produce a powerful, well-balanced hull. Combined with a generous sail plan, this means that the First 44 is lively and efficient in all conditions.

Interior design
The First 44 offers a streamlined interior layout that is modern and luminous, with a blend of white lacquered surfaces, moulded woods and tasteful upholsteries. 

With three cabins and two heads, the interior is designed with quality finishes and materials to create a refined atmosphere.

In the saloon, the transverse table seats up to six people and faces the sofa and navigation station; its position in relation to the mast facilitates circulation between the galley and the owner's cabin, enhancing the feeling of space.

Features may include:

Highlights

Expertise
The First 44 takes full benefit of BENETEAU's expertise and the knowledge of the best experts. More requested by their owners, the Firsts are the subject of very advanced development; the engineering was therefore entrusted to the Mer Forte design office, well known in ocean racing, and which held the same role for the Figaro Bénéteau 3. 

Layouts
The First 44 combines elegance and modernity with white lacquered furniture and moulded wood, carefully positioned indirect lighting and a wide range of upholstery.