THIS MONTH'S 10

THE 10 KEY BOATING STORIES YOU NEED TO READ

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1 BENETEAU'S BOLD NEW GT RANGE

Beneteau is relaunching its Gran Turismo range with three all-new models and a completely different look. So far only four teaser renderings have been released but it's enough to show that this is a far edgier, more modern looking range than the previous generation of GT models.

Referred to as 'crossover express cruisers' rather than sportscruisers or coupés, they feature snub bows with a slight reverse rake and folding aft terraces that extend the cockpit space and improve guests' connection with the water.

Three model sizes have so far been announced by Beneteau, the Gran Turismo 35, the 40 and the 50. The smaller two designs are due to be exhibited at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September, while the larger one is set to make its debut at Boot Düsseldorf in January 2026.

These new models are geared to deliver what Beneteau knows its customers want most and that's better outdoor living spaces. The smallest is a fully open design with a T-top and an open-plan cabin, complete with a convertible dinette/bed beneath the foredeck, two more berths aft of the companionway and a heads and shower compartment.

The bigger two are both coupés with glass doors separating the open aft cockpit from the enclosed saloon. The GT 40 has much the same open-plan layout down below as the GT35 albeit with more space and a separate bed in the bow. The GT50 will be a three-cabin, two-bathroom design.

Inspired by Japanese design principles, the creative team, led by Pierangelo Andreani, stripped back the essence of what express cruisers used to be and in so doing married a bold exterior with a minimalist interior.