Beneteau Gran Turismo 35 Review: The Ultimate Weekend Escape

Beneteau has long mastered the art of marrying innovative design with pragmatic functionality. Beyond its role as a global distributor, the shipyard functions as an industry barometer, constantly attuned to the pulse of the market and the shifting currents of nautical trends. It comes as no surprise, then, that the Beneteau Gran Turismo 35, introduced last year, arrives as a direct answer to a previously unfilled niche in the segment.

Design and performance

Built upon a hull designed by the renowned Michael Peters Yacht Design, this model delivers stellar performance while maximizing the utility of its open concept, walkaround layout.

Measuring 11.20 meters overall with a beam of 3.24 meters, the new GT 35 relies exclusively on Mercury Verado outboard power. When paired with advanced E Steer electric steering, the result is exceptional agility and remarkably quiet operation. 

During our test run in April at the Dalmatia Boat Show, the vessel equipped with twin 350 HP V10 engines achieved a comfortable cruising speed of 25 knots and a spirited top speed of 41 knots. The boat’s athletic pedigree is further underscored by its responsiveness: it reached cruising speed in just 14 seconds and hit its maximum velocity in 30.

The helm is positioned centrally, featuring a triple seat configuration that offers panoramic visibility. These seats are well shielded by an expansive windscreen, which flows elegantly into a hardtop that shelters the cockpit and the outdoor galley.

Our test model was outfitted with an extensive options package, featuring a 16 inch Garmin multifunction display, a Garmin 312 VHF with AIS, a bow thruster, and an integrated Fusion sound system with six speakers and a subwoofer. Combined with ambient LED lighting throughout the cockpit, hull, and underwater, the setup offers endless possibilities for entertaining whether anchored in a secluded cove or docked at a bustling marina.

Cockpit designed for living

While the bow features an intimate lounge area with a small table, the aft cockpit is clearly intended as the vessel’s social epicenter. Equipped with a large refrigerator, sink, stove, and electric grill, the GT 35 is perfectly configured for extended weekend cruising.

The aft section features a transverse table flanked by two parallel settees, easily accommodating six adults. With the touch of a button, the space undergoes a transformation: the table lowers, cushions are inserted, and the area converts into a sprawling sunpad the ultimate invitation for a lazy afternoon.

The test vessel also featured an optional electric telescopic awning that extends to the transom. This is an essential add on; when paired with the large fold down side terraces, the aft section expands to a total width of 4.25 meters, transforming this French sport cruiser into a private beach club perched just inches above the water.

Crafting the interior experience

The interior maintains the GT 35’s focus on functionality and spatial efficiency. Upon entering the cabin, one finds a conveniently located master switch panel on the port side, allowing for quick management of all onboard systems. Adjacent is a 49 liter refrigerator and a microwave.

The forward salon converts easily into a generous double berth, while the aft cabin offers a transverse double bed that provides a surprising degree of space and privacy. Notably, the head is impressively large for a boat of this size, featuring full standing headroom and a dedicated shower stall.

Beneteau has recognized a pivotal shift in the market: buyers in this class are moving away from the 'floating apartment' concept, prioritizing instead the pure experience of navigation and the sense of summer freedom. 

The Gran Turismo 35 distills this desire into a refined package. It focuses on the essentials high end entertainment, abundant open air space, and privacy all wrapped in that signature, irresistible French design that commands attention in every port it enters.