New Swift Trawler 30

The Swift Trawler 30 is a big newcomer to the Beneteau family of so-called long-distance cruisers.

The contemporary French Trawler, with a stated 200nm range at cruise from a single 300-37-hp engine, is set to make a splash at the NAUTIC boat show in Paris this December 5-13.

From top to bottom, the compact cruiser is said to reflect the pedigree of a range that has met with uninterrupted success since it was launched in 2003.

The Trawlers come in 34, 44 and 50 footers, with the 34 also available as a Sedan. This new 30 is a flybridge only model at this point, with a single or optional two-cabin version and standard convertible saloon sleeping.

Designed for use on the high seas, the sub-10m long Swift Trawler still manages to offer everything required to ensure a safe and enjoyable voyage, Beneteau says.

The big little Trawler is said to combine style and seaworthiness, and remain highly stable and ultra-comfortable during its 200nm range at a cruising speed of 15 knots. Water tanks have capacity of 300 litres.

The boat uses semi-planing hull technology, which has been tried and tested on the Swift Trawler 34 and 44, for what Beneteau claims are remarkable levels of fuel efficiency (using a small single electronic diesel engine). The boat can be driven from upper and lower helms for all-weather cruising.

The galley is in the saloon, where a large convertible dinette creates a second double bed. The owners cabin is forward with an island berth and there is the option of the second cabin with little bunks instead of what looks to be a decent separate shower stall.

Back in the saloon, the foldaway seats, convertible sofa and cleverly designed
table, which slides beneath the benches to maximise space, is said to cater for various crew combinations.

In addition to having a layout that encourages you to relax, you can also move around the craft safely thanks to walkaround decks, handrails in all areas, a high pulpits and an especially large well-protected starboard walkway.

The fully-enclosed, fully-glass-surrounded saloon wheelhouse offers 360° views right back to the cockpit and is bathed in light.

When spending time in the open air, the fully-opening transom is a wonderful innovation which increases the dimensions of the cockpit to 5sq m, allowing it to be transformed into a seagoing terrace.

The modular flybridge layout has also been designed to maximise access, with a swivelling removable table freeing up space.

All of which seems to indicate this little 30 footer might be a jaunty 'trawler' for places like the Moreton Bay, the Hawkesbury, Melbourne and the SA Gulfs.

Preliminary Specifications: Swift Trawler 30
Hull length: 9.58m
Length overall: 9.99m
Length overall with optional big platform: 10.39m
Beam including rub rail: 3.53m
Light displacement: 5550kg
Draft: 1.05m
Air draft with navigation light: 4.60m
Air draft with radar: 5.15m
Engine power: 300-370hp
Fuel capacity: 720lt
Water capacity: 300lt
EC Certification: B8
Sleeping: 4+2
More detail and dealer list at Beneteau.