There’s a quiet revolution underway at Beneteau. And it’s not in the form of a flagship superyacht or another upsized flybridge. It’s happening at the 11-metre mark, where the all-new Gran Turismo 35 is rewriting the rulebook for express cruisers — with a crisp silhouette, crossover credentials, and enough punch to outrun the ordinary.
As the first in Beneteau’s new generation of Gran Turismo models, the GT35 arrives not simply as a model refresh, but as a complete reimagination. The French builder — whose history spans 140 years — set out to redefine what a modern day express cruiser could be. The result is a boat that speaks the language of simplicity and style, but is rooted in smart design, seaworthy performance, and versatility that suits everything from Mediterranean island-hopping to New Zealand’s rugged and variable coastline.
More than a redesign – a reset
“This isn’t just an overhaul — it’s a revolution, pure and simple,” says Eric LeVine, BENETEAU’s Motor Yachts Sales Director. “To build these boats we used not only real-world data and industry-leading naval architects and designers; we drew from our 140-year history, and from the experiences of our owners and of the BENETEAU community.”
Designed by Andreani Design with naval architecture from Michael Peters Yacht Design, the GT35 debuts at the 2025 Cannes Yachting Festival alongside its larger sibling, the GT40 Coupé. Both models embody Beneteau’s new ‘Sport-Lux’ design philosophy: performance-driven hulls paired with luxury-grade materials and an onboard experience that invites both action and relaxation.
Living the villa life – on water
At 11.2 metres LOA (36’9”) with a beam of 4.65 metres (15’3”), the GT35 feels deceptively spacious. The design maximises openness with what Beneteau calls a “villa living” layout. Multiple deck zones shift seamlessly between relaxation, entertaining, and connection to the sea. Fold-out balconies on either side of the aft cockpit expand the deck real estate — a first at this size for Beneteau — while modular seating fore and aft converts to wide sun pads.
The GT35 feels nimble and composed at speed, thanks to hull design by Michael Peters — a name synonymous with balance, efficiency, and control. Whether skipping across a glassy gulf or carving into head seas along a windy coastline, the GT35 maintains poise. For New Zealand conditions — where fast-moving weather, choppy inlets, and beach landings are all part of the mix — the GT35’s outboard setup and responsive handling are particularly relevant. With shallow draft, beach access is easier. With fewer underwater systems than sterndrive or IPS, maintenance is simplified.
Grace and simplicity, styled for the sea
If the hull performs with power, the aesthetic shows restraint. Andreani Design has embraced the Japanese principles of Kanso (simplicity) and Yūgen (gracefulness), resulting in a silhouette that is clean, low, and deliberate. There’s no excessive chrome, no overworked contours. Instead, a few carefully sculpted lines — including Beneteau’s signature light blade on the hull — deliver visual clarity and a distinctive on-water identity, especially when lit at night.
Style with substance – Alpine Edition
For those seeking added flair, Beneteau is offering an Alpine Edition in partnership with the high-end French sportscar brand Alpine. The GT35 Alpine Edition features a Signal Grey hull finish with black detailing, navy accents throughout the upholstery, and exclusive branding touches. It’s a bold look that will appeal to those wanting a boat that stands apart in the marina without being overstated.
Made for New Zealand waters
For local boaters, the GT35 ticks several practical boxes. The outboard power suits those cruising across Hauraki Gulf, the Bay of Islands, or Marlborough Sounds, where reliability, range and ease of service matter. The expanded cockpit and swim platform suit our outdoor lifestyle — from barbecues at anchor to paddleboarding with kids. The hull’s performance and design are more than a match for exposed coastlines or harbour bar crossings, and the clean finish ensures ease of maintenance.
The boat will be represented in New Zealand by 36° Brokers , with delivery timelines expected to follow the global debut at Cannes in September 2025. Local test events and viewings are anticipated shortly after.
Crossover complete
In the Gran Turismo 35, Beneteau has delivered a boat that feels purpose-built for how we actually use our boats — fast, flexible, and ready for both everyday joy and long-haul weekends. With a clever blend of European design, modern naval architecture, and real-world functionality, it feels just as at home in a French Riviera marina as it would moored off Waiheke on a long summer’s day.
Express cruisers have been due a rethink. Beneteau’s response is both subtle and striking — and it’s just getting started.
