BENETEAU has opened its Marina Baie des Anges sea-trial programme on the French Riviera, running from 15 to 17 September 2026. The invitation-based event gives prospective owners a chance to evaluate a mixed selection of sailing and motor yachts under way rather than relying only on static boat-show inspections.

Four boats fall directly within Luxury Yacht Guide's 12–23.99m coverage: the Oceanis 47, Oceanis 52, First 60 and Gran Turismo 50. BENETEAU is also trialling the First 36 SE and Gran Turismo 35, but both sit below LYG's 12-metre lower limit.

Oceanis 47 and 52 cover the cruising range

The Oceanis 47 measures 14.6m overall with a 4.5m beam, while the Oceanis 52 extends to 16.28m overall and 4.84m in beam. Putting both yachts into the same trial programme lets buyers compare how additional length and volume affect handling, cockpit use and accommodation instead of judging the difference only from plans.

Sea trials also reveal characteristics that are difficult to assess alongside a pontoon, including helm visibility, manoeuvring response, noise and the way a hull behaves through wake and short coastal chop. For a cruising yacht, those qualities can matter as much as cabin count or saloon finish once ownership begins.

First 60 provides the performance-sailing option

At 18.95m overall, the First 60 is the largest sailing yacht in the programme and represents BENETEAU's more performance-oriented side. Its inclusion allows prospective owners to compare a faster, more sail-focused platform with the Oceanis models in the same operating conditions.

That comparison is useful for buyers deciding whether they want cruising simplicity or a more active sailing experience. The same owner may value generous living space at anchor while also wanting steering feedback, sail controls and performance that make longer passages under sail more rewarding.

Gran Turismo 50 adds the motor-yacht comparison

The 15.95m Gran Turismo 50 is the principal LYG-sized motor yacht in the trial fleet, with a 4.48m beam. Testing it in the same Riviera setting gives buyers a chance to assess acceleration, planing attitude, visibility and low-speed control while also seeing how the cockpit and interior work once the yacht is stationary.

Modern sports cruisers are increasingly judged as much by their social spaces and day-at-anchor use as by maximum speed. A sea trial can show whether compromises made for large glazing, open decks and flexible furniture affect practical movement or visibility when the boat is actually operating.

Sea trials follow immediately after Cannes

The Baie des Anges programme begins only two days after the Cannes Yachting Festival closed, effectively extending the buying cycle from exhibition viewing into on-water evaluation. Owners who shortlisted several BENETEAU models at Cannes can therefore test those impressions before making a final decision.

The event runs through 17 September and attendance is organised through BENETEAU dealers. Luxury Yacht Guide will continue to separate LYG-sized yachts from smaller craft when covering mixed-range manufacturer events so readers can focus on the models relevant to this publication.