Groupe Beneteau is owned by the Beneteau family holding company, BERI 21, which holds 54% of the company’s shares5. The company was founded in 1884 in Saint-Gilles-Croix-de-Vie, France, and has since become a worldwide market leader in marine construction and the European leader in leisure homes. Groupe Beneteau operates 22 production sites around the world and is present in more than 1,200 points of sales. The group’s boat division offers 180 recreational boat models through its 10 brands, serving diverse navigational needs and uses, from sailing to motorboating, monohulls, and catamarans45.

In 2022, Groupe Beneteau recorded revenues of €1.5 billion, employing around 8,000 people primarily in France, the United States, Poland, Italy, and Portugal. The company’s boat division offers more than 150 recreational boat models, serving diverse navigational needs, from sailing to motorboating, monohulls, and catamarans. The group’s housing division is a major European player for leisure homes, lodges, and pods, with its three brands offering a wide range of products. Groupe Beneteau is a worldwide market leader for boats and a European leader for leisure homes, with a global sales network and international production capabilities125.

The company’s 2022 revenues were up 19.4% compared to 2021, and its sales are distributed in a balanced manner in the main boating markets of Europe and North America. The group’s second largest market is North America, which accounts for nearly 30% of its revenues. Groupe Beneteau operates 22 production sites around the world and is present in more than 1,200 points of sales45.

Groupe Beneteau owns 10 boat brands, each with its own unique characteristics and models. These brands are:

1. Beneteau: Known for a wide range of sail and powerboats, including the Oceanis, First, and Antares models. The Oceanis series offers cruising sailboats, the First series provides high-performance sailing yachts, and the Antares range consists of outboard motorboats and cabin cruisers35.
2. Jeanneau: Offers popular sailboat models such as the Sun Odyssey and Sun Fast, known for their comfort, performance, and innovative design35.
3. Prestige: Specializes in luxury motor yachts, offering elegant and spacious models designed for comfortable cruising and entertaining1.
4. Lagoon: A leading brand in catamaran manufacturing, known for its comfortable and innovative multihull sailboats, catering to both private ownership and charter markets1.
5. Excess: Focuses on high-performance cruising catamarans, offering a perfect balance between performance and comfort for sailors looking for an exhilarating experience on the water1.
6. Delphia: Produces a range of sailing yachts and motorboats, known for their quality craftsmanship and seaworthiness1.
7. Four Winns: Offers a variety of motorboats, including deck boats, surf boats, and cruisers, known for their quality construction and versatile designs1.
8. Wellcraft: Specializes in fishing boats, center consoles, and dual consoles, known for their durability, performance, and fishing-friendly features1.
9. Scarab: Known for its high-performance jet boats, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience on the water with their sporty and agile designs1.
10. Glastron: Produces a range of stylish and versatile bowriders and deck boats, known for their performance, comfort, and attention to detail4.

Each brand under Groupe Beneteau offers a distinct lineup of models catering to various segments of the boating market, from luxury motor yachts to high-performance sailboats and versatile motorboats.

Beneteau

the Beneteau family boatyard was founded in 1884. After the death of Benjamin Beneteau in 1928, Andre Beneteau and his wife Georgina took over the business. Andre was responsible for guiding the family business through two world wars5. Andre Beneteau was known for his skills as a designer and draftsman. His creations were admired by those living near the Beneteau shipyard1.

Andre’s design and production work were crucial to the company’s success, particularly during the period when the company transitioned from building wooden fishing trawlers to fiberglass boats5. Andre Beneteau had children, including Annette Beneteau Roux, who played a significant role in the company’s development.

The family has maintained a strong presence in the company, with Annette Beneteau Roux having played a significant role in its development13. Annette took a small craft to the 1965 Paris Boat Show, which caused a sensation and marked the beginning of Beneteau’s transition into recreational boating16. she has been a part of its transformation from a small yard building wooden fishing trawlers to a global leader in boat manufacturing25.

Annette has been honored with awards such as the AIM Marine Group Editor’s Choice Lifetime Achievement Award5 and the Les Echos Grand Prix de l’Economie 2018 prize4.

The Beneteau family has gathered for events such as the famous Rendezvous in Catalina Island, which is a gathering of Beneteau boat owners and enthusiasts1. Additionally, the Beneteau brand encourages a sense of community among its customers, promoting family-oriented sailing events and experiences5791115.

The Oceanis series, the First series, and the Antares powerboats are well-known for their distinct characteristics and contributions to the boating industry. Here are the descriptions, years of introduction, and manufacturing locations for each:

• Oceanis Series: The Oceanis series offers a range of cruising sailboats known for their comfort, efficiency, and stability. The series has seen several generations of models, with varying lengths and features. For example, the Oceanis 30.1 was introduced in 2019 and is manufactured in France2. The Oceanis 46.1, introduced in 2018, is also produced in France4. The specific manufacturing locations for all models in the Oceanis series may vary, but Beneteau’s primary production facilities are in France and the United States1.
• First Series: The First series provides high-performance sailing yachts designed for racing and exhilarating sailing experiences. The First series has a rich history, with various models introduced over the years. For instance, the First 21.7 was introduced in 2004 and manufactured in France1. The manufacturing locations for other models in the First series may also vary, but they are typically produced in France, where Beneteau’s headquarters is located1. The First series sailboats by Beneteau are known for their simplicity, performance, and comfortable interiors and cockpits, geared towards daysailing and coastal cruising. The series has seen several generations of models, each with its own unique features. For example, the First SE models are designed for regatta enthusiasts, offering a carbon rig, laminate sails, and other technological features that provide the ultimate sailing experience, performance, and control. These models are known for their liveliness under sail, even in very light air, and for planing easily downwind, offering real thrills to anyone who enjoys a combination of fun and speed. The lifting keel protects the structure from the risk of grounding, and the boats are designed to make good fun at sea part and parcel of the experience. The First SE is a line of safe sailing yachts, making competitive sailing accessible to all sailors1.
• Antares Powerboats: The Antares line consists of powerboats recognized for their comfort, safety, and versatility. While specific details on the year of introduction and manufacturing locations for individual Antares models are not provided in the search results, these powerboats are generally associated with a high level of craftsmanship and are part of Beneteau’s diverse product offerings.

Key Milestones in the Antares Line

The Antares line of powerboats, designed by André Bénéteau, was first introduced in 1977 with the launch of the Antares 7. This marked the beginning of what would become a highly successful range of motorboats for Beneteau. Over the past four decades, the Antares line has seen the introduction of 47 models, making it the best-selling motorboat range for the boatyard1.

• 1977: The Antares 7 was launched, setting the stage for the Antares line1.
• 1987: The Antares 8.60 was introduced, emphasizing seaworthiness and habitability as the hallmarks of the Antares range1.
• 2004: Beneteau introduced the Antares 12, which was an invitation to travel first class, continuing the tradition of innovation in style and modern-day motorboating1.
• Recent Years: The Antares line has been expanded with the introduction of the Antares 6, 7, 8, 9, and the Antares 11, showcasing a vibrant line of outboard engine boats ranging from 5.70 to 11 meters1.

The Antares boats are known for their seaworthy, pilothouse cruiser design, excellent hulls, and very safe seakeeping behavior. They are considered the epitome of a family boat, with their traditional profile and sizeable living spaces1.

The Antares line of powerboats by Beneteau is known for its seaworthiness, comfort, and versatility. The line has seen the introduction of numerous models over the years, each designed to cater to different boating needs. Here are some of the models and their introduction years based on the available search results:

• Antares 5.80: This model was part of the 4th generation Antares line, which was introduced between 2001 and 20112.
• Antares 6: Also part of the 4th generation Antares line, the Antares 6 was introduced between 2001 and 20112.
• Antares 6.80: This model was introduced during the same period as the Antares 5.80 and Antares 62.
• Antares 7: The Antares 7 is a recent model in the Antares line, known for its safety, simplicity, and livability3.
• Antares 7.80: This model was introduced as part of the 4th generation Antares line between 2001 and 20112.
• Antares 8: The Antares 8 is known for its high-performance engines and excellent cruising range1.
• Antares 9: This model is a recent addition to the Antares line8.
• Antares 11: The Antares 11 is a new model from Beneteau that combines a dayboat’s agility, speed, and versatile layout with real cruising accommodations7.
• Antares 12: Introduced in 2004, the Antares 12 was designed to offer first-class travel experiences1.

Please note that the specific year of introduction for some models is not provided in the search results. For more detailed information, it is recommended to refer to Beneteau’s official website or contact the company directly.

For more detailed information on the year of introduction and manufacturing locations for specific models within each series, it is recommended to refer to Beneteau’s official website or contact the company directly.

Swift Trawler Line

The Swift Trawler line is designed for safe, practical, long-distance cruising with ample internal space. These boats are built on semi-planing hulls and are known for their trawler-style superstructures and large flybridges. The Swift Trawler range includes models such as the 35, 41, and 48 feet, with a non-fly Sedan option at 41 feet. The Swift Trawler 35, for example, is designed for the high seas and long cruises, featuring strong, harmonious lines and a Cummins 425 hp engine for pleasure underway and easy maneuvering34.

Gran Turismo Line

The Gran Turismo line is characterized by luxurious cruisers with sporty hulls and slender lines, designed for speed and elegance. This line includes models such as the 32, 36, 41, and 45, each with distinctive two-part hull windows, raked coupe-style hardtops, and cruise-friendly inboard options. The Gran Turismo 41, for instance, features Air Step® technology for increased speed and stability, and is designed with entertaining in mind, offering large salons and lounging spaces open to the sea27.

This line represents the luxury cruising segment, with elegant deck plans, sumptuous interiors, and high-quality finishes. They are well-suited for long voyages, offering comfort and autonomy at sea2.

Flyer Line

History and Introduction

The Flyer line by Beneteau is characterized by its bold features, elegant and sporty design, and eye-catching lines that promise memorable experiences on the water. The Flyer range was born out of a desire to win a race with a motorboat, as recounted by Annette Roux, marking a significant commitment to the sea by Beneteau. The first models of the Flyer range were showcased at the Paris Boat Show in 1980, signaling the beginning of a new era for Beneteau in the realm of motorboats15.

Monte Carlo Line

History and Introduction

The Monte Carlo line was created by Beneteau in 2013 as a premium line of motor yachts, with the Monte Carlo 6 being the crowning achievement of this endeavor. The line has won over the most demanding boaters worldwide with its blend of luxury, performance, and distinctive design3.

Models and Features

The Monte Carlo range includes models such as the Monte Carlo 4, Monte Carlo 5, and Monte Carlo 6, each embodying the premium spirit of the line. The Monte Carlo 52, introduced in 2019, marked the beginning of the “Smart Luxury” generation within the Monte Carlo line. This 50-foot high-end motor yacht showcases Beneteau’s focus on quality control, unique expertise, and the integration of luxurious materials and design elements. The Monte Carlo 52, for example, features an ultra-modern profile, an unprecedented number of windows, and softer sleeker lines, enhancing spaces, light, and comfort47.The Monte Carlo line is known for its elegant textures, top-quality materials, and detailed finishes, offering a unique lifestyle for motor cruisers of its size. The interior design seamlessly connects the galley with the lounge and central steering station, while the cabins boast luxury and comfort. The Monte Carlo 6 Flybridge is designed as the primary living space on board, equipped with a large lounge, sun-loungers, and an integrated galley, making it ideal for entertaining3.

Jeanneau Yachts

Jeanneau was founded in 1957 by Henri Jeanneau, who initially focused on building powerboats for racing. The company later expanded into sailboat production, with the Sangria model being a significant milestone, establishing Jeanneau as a major player in the sailboat market. Over the years, Jeanneau has continued to innovate and expand its product lines, offering a wide range of sailboats, yachts, and powerboats. The company’s sailboats, such as the Sun Odyssey and Sun Fast models, are known for their quality, innovative design, and emphasis on comfort and performance. Jeanneau’s sailboats are built at their factory in Les Herbiers, France, using advanced construction techniques and high-quality materials. In 1979, the company established a new boatyard at Andilly to construct large luxury sailboats, marking a further expansion of its capabilities123

Some of the most popular Jeanneau sailboat models include:

• Sun Odyssey: These are cruising sailboats designed for comfortable navigation and easy handling, suitable for everything from weekend cruises to long-distance voyages1.
• Sun Fast: These are high-performance sailboats designed for racing, offering speed and sensations without compromising reliability, ease of use, and safety at sea3.
• Jeanneau Yachts: This line represents the luxury cruising segment, with elegant deck plans, sumptuous interiors, and high-quality finishes. They are well-suited for long voyages, offering comfort and autonomy at sea2.

These models are known for their design innovation, safety in navigation, and customization options, making them a popular choice among sailors for various sailing experiences1.

Prestige

Groupe Beneteau acquired the Prestige brand in 19945. Prestige is known for its luxury motor yachts, offering elegant and spacious models designed for comfortable cruising and entertaining. The brand has been a part of Groupe Beneteau’s portfolio for over two decades, contributing to the group’s position as a global leader in the boating industry.

Lagoon

The Lagoon brand was created in 1984 as a direct extension of JTA (Jeanneau Technologies Avancées), Jeanneau’s “competition” department. The brand initially catered to unusual requests, such as the construction of the trimarans for the film Waterworld5.

From 1987 to 1996, Lagoon introduced its first generation of catamarans, including the Lagoon 55, 47, 57, and 67, which were designed for offshore cruising. This design approach was later adopted by other large multihull shipyards5.

In 1998, Lagoon introduced the Lagoon 380 model, which featured engines in the aft compartment for silent cabins and easy maneuvering, thanks to propellers situated behind the rudders5.

In 2000, Lagoon ventured into the world of Motor Boats with the arrival of the Lagoon Power5.

By 2003, Lagoon had become the world leader in cruising catamaran construction, thanks to its innovative, wide range, and international distribution5.

Excess

The Excess brand was developed by Groupe Beneteau as a new line of catamarans, embodying a sporty DNA and aiming to offer a fresh and dynamic sailing experience. The brand was introduced to cater to sailors looking for performance, speed, and an engaging sailing experience, with a focus on creating boats that are both fun to sail and comfortable for cruising.

The Excess brand was unveiled in Cannes in 2019, with its first two models, the Excess 12 and Excess 15, being introduced at that time. The Excess brand was designed to cater to sailors looking for performance, speed, and an engaging sailing experience, with a focus on creating boats that are both fun to sail and comfortable for cruising3.

The Excess 14, for example, is highlighted as the best example of the brand’s DNA, featuring a twin-helm design and emphasizing the sporty aspect of the catamaran brand4. This development reflects Groupe Beneteau’s strategy to diversify its portfolio and meet the evolving preferences of modern sailors by introducing innovative designs and concepts through the Excess brand.

Delphia

Groupe Beneteau acquired Delphia Yachts in 2018. The acquisition was made through a Polish entity called Stocznia Jachtowa Delphia sp. z.o.o., in which Groupe Beneteau’s Polish subsidiary Ostroda Yachts held the majority of the capital, while Delphia Yachts retained 20% of the capital123. Delphia Yachts was founded in 1990 and is based in Poland, where it has established a reputation for building a wide range of sailing yachts and motorboats23.

The acquisition of Delphia Yachts allowed Groupe Beneteau to expand its product range and manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the segment of smaller sailing yachts and motorboats, as well as to strengthen its presence in the Central and Eastern European markets14. This strategic move was part of Groupe Beneteau’s broader vision to consolidate its position as a global leader in the boating industry.

Delphia Yachts, a yacht manufacturer based in Olecko, Poland, was established in 1990 by brothers Piotr and Wojciech Kot. The company gained recognition as Poland’s largest manufacturer of sailing boats, with a production of more than 150 units per year. In June 2012, Delphia Yachts expanded its operations by acquiring Maxi Yachts of Sweden. In 2018, the company was acquired by the French boat manufacturer Beneteau, a move that allowed Beneteau to strengthen its product range and manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the segment of smaller sailing yachts and motorboats, as well as to enhance its presence in the Central and Eastern European markets5.

Four Winns

The Four Winns brand was developed after the Winn family acquired a boat company in Cadillac, Michigan, in 1975. The brand name “Four Winns” comes from the Winn family itself, which included Bill Winn Sr., and his three sons, Bill Jr., Charlie, and John. The name represents the four members of the Winn family involved in the business2.

The brand was acquired by Groupe Beneteau from Platinum Equity in June 2014. Platinum Equity had previously acquired Four Winns as part of a larger transaction from the bankrupt Genmar Holdings Inc. in 2010. The acquisition by Groupe Beneteau was part of its strategy to expand its portfolio and strengthen its presence in the North American market4.

Wellcraft

Wellcraft, a major manufacturer of American powerboats, was founded in 1955, initially producing wooden runabouts. In 1982, Wellcraft purchased California Yachts from the Marshall Boat Company and later sold it back to them in 1987. The company expanded its product line over the years, including the creation of the Wellcraft Saltwater Fishing School and the Wellcraft’s High-Performance Boot Camp to educate new owners. In 2014, Groupe Beneteau acquired Wellcraft as part of its acquisition of Rec Boat Holdings, which also included Four Winns, Scarab, and Glastron. This strategic move allowed Groupe Beneteau to gain instant market share in the powerboat segment and expand its manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the United States2.

Scarab

The Scarab brand, known for its racing heritage and distinctive design, was developed in the 1970s by California racer Larry Smith. Smith designed a speedboat with a deep V hull, the Scarab 29, on which he won several offshore races in 1974. Seeking to accelerate the development of his designs, Smith partnered with Wellcraft, a company that had been producing cruise speedboats for over 20 years. This partnership led to the creation of the new Wellcraft Scarab line, which utilized the latest technologies and materials, including Kevlar. The brand gained fame in the racing world, with notable achievements such as Betty Cook winning the World Championship in 1977 on a Wellcraft Scarab 38. Scarab boats won six more World Championships in different classes and were raced by notable individuals, including Michael Reagan, son of the 40th US President2.

Scarab was acquired by Groupe Beneteau in 2014 as part of its purchase of Rec Boat Holdings from the private equity firm Platinum Equity. This acquisition included the brands Four Winns, Glastron, Wellcraft, and Scarab. The acquisition was part of Beneteau’s strategy to expand its presence in the motorboat market, particularly in the segment under 12 meters, which accounts for nearly 40% of the overall motorboat market in the United States3.

Noteworthy about the Scarab brand is its transition from a legendary racing heritage to its current focus on jet boats. The brand’s legacy includes the iconic 38 Scarab KV, which won successive championships from 1977 to 1980 and gained further popularity after being featured in the TV series “Miami Vice.” However, the current Scarab brand under Groupe Beneteau has shifted towards producing small jet boats, aiming to compete in the recreational watercraft market1.

Jet boats are best utilized in environments where their unique propulsion system offers distinct advantages over traditional propeller-driven boats. These environments include:

• Shallow Waters: Jet boats can operate in very shallow water because their jet drive system is located entirely within the hull, reducing the risk of damage from hitting the bottom3.
• Watersports: Jet boats are popular as fun runabouts for watersports due to their quick acceleration and ability to pull up on sandbars, making them perfect for activities like tubing1.
• Rapid-Shooting: Some jet boats are designed for almost unnavigable conditions, such as rapid rivers, and are used by law enforcement, military, and search and rescue teams due to their rugged design and explosive acceleration1.
• Fishing: Certain jet boats, like the Rogue Fastwater 22 Jet, are designed for fishing and can be customized with features like a trolling motor1.

The jet propulsion system, which draws water in through the bottom of the boat and expels it through a nozzle at the stern, allows for easy steering and the ability to navigate without the danger of propeller injuries when swimming around the boat3. However, jet boats may not be suitable for rough conditions, as some models with low freeboard can be swamped by high waves2.

Glastron

Before being acquired by Groupe Beneteau, Glastron had a rich history as an American brand of powerboats. The company was founded in Texas in 1956 by William “Bill” Gaston and his partners, including Bob Hammond, a fiberglass specialist. Glastron quickly became a significant player in the American market, known for its fiberglass boats. By the 1970s, Glastron had grown to become the largest manufacturer of fiberglass boats in the United States, employing up to 1,600 employees2.

In the 1990s, Glastron was acquired by Genmar Holdings Inc., which later transferred production to Minnesota. After facing difficult years, the brand eventually came under the French flag when it was taken over by Groupe Beneteau, along with other brands such as Scarab and Wellcraft2.

Glastron’s legacy includes a reputation for style, performance, and attention to detail, with boats that were once described as the “Ferrari of boats” by Randy Vance, editor of Boating Life3. The brand has been celebrated for creating unforgettable family boating experiences and continues to be a part of Groupe Beneteau’s diverse portfolio of boat brands1.

Glastron is a historical brand within the Groupe Beneteau line, celebrated for over six decades of legacy in the boating industry. Groupe Beneteau has recently unveiled new ambitions for Glastron, focusing on the expanding market for day boat rentals and boat clubs, aiming to redefine the brand’s presence in the boating world1.

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Groupe Beneteau and Brunswick Corporation are two of the largest players in the global boating industry. Noteworthy comparisons between the two include:

• Market Position: Groupe Beneteau is the second-largest player in the yachting industry after Brunswick Corporation2.
• Diversification: Both companies offer a wide range of products. Groupe Beneteau has a diversified portfolio with 10 boat brands offering over 180 boat models, from sailing to motorboating, monohulls, and catamarans3. Brunswick also has a diversified marine portfolio, including engine manufacturing through its Mercury Marine division.
• Global Presence: Groupe Beneteau has a strong international presence with 22 production sites and a global sales network, employing around 8,000 people in various countries5.Brunswick also has a significant global footprint, with multiple brands and international operations.
• Financial Performance: In 2022, Groupe Beneteau recorded revenues of €1.5 billion5. Brunswick’s financial performance would need to be compared from their respective financial reports for the same period to draw a direct comparison.
• Brand Portfolio: Groupe Beneteau’s brands include Beneteau, Jeanneau, Prestige, Lagoon, Excess, Delphia, Four Winns, Wellcraft, Scarab, and Glastron4. Brunswick’s boat brands include Sea Ray, Boston Whaler, and Lund, among others, and they also own the engine manufacturer Mercury Marine.

Both companies are renowned for their innovation, quality, and extensive dealer networks, but Brunswick is particularly known for its strength in the marine engine market through Mercury Marine, while Groupe Beneteau is recognized for its broad range of sailboats and catamarans.

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In the heart of Belltown, where the city meets the sea, Groupe Beneteau’s vessels, as majestic as can be.
On the water they glide, with grace and with pride,
A sight to behold, on the incoming tide.

In the T-Mobile Stadium, on the floor they stand,
A part of the Big Seattle Boat Show, grand and grand.
Before the Superbowl of 2024, they steal the show,
Their elegance and craftsmanship, in the spotlight glow.

On the Lunar New Year of the Wood Dragon, they sail, Under the moonlight, leaving a shimmering trail. Frank, a sailor true, at the helm of a Beneteau,
His heart filled with joy, his face all aglow.

From Oceanis to Antares, and the First series too,
Each boat a testament to a vision pursued.
Crafted with care, in lands near and far,
Each Beneteau vessel, a shining star.

So here’s to Groupe Beneteau, and to Frank, our friend, May their journeys be safe, and their happiness never end. In the waters of Belltown, or the stadium’s grand floor, May they find adventure, forevermore.