A small disclaimer before I start: I live aboard my own boat, which also happens to be a French production yacht. The Beneteau and the Jeanneau that I live on are siblings in every sense, built by the same group and sharing the same philosophy of practicality, comfort, and safety. You may never break a land speed record in one, but you will sail confidently, live comfortably, and arrive safely. These are boats built for people who spend real time on the water.
When my wife and I were looking for a boat, with 3 kids in tow, we needed a nice standard of living and a practical interior layout to deliver cruising comfort and separation for kids. We took a 4-cabin Jeanneau!
The First 44 delivers on so many of the goals I had when looking for a boat, that’s why I am so happy to recommend this one!
So when I say the Beneteau First 44 currently listed by 36 Degrees Brokerage in Auckland represents one of the best buying opportunities I have seen in the New Zealand market, I want you to hear that from someone with no skin in the game. I’m not a salesperson!
The asking price is $895,000, which is over $500,000 off the original list price. This is a brand-new boat sitting in New Zealand right now, commissioned, ready to sail, and waiting for its owner.
This First 44 was configured as a New Zealand demonstrator, which explains both the specification level and the immediate availability.
All freight, commissioning, and GST have already been paid. There is no waitlist, no shipping uncertainty, no commissioning delay. You walk aboard, hoist the sails, and go.
The specification is exceptional.
Teak cockpit decks, a Luxe Trim pack, North Sails mainsail, genoa, and gennaker, a full Garmin offshore electronics suite, a hydraulic backstay, upgraded winches and deck traveller (believe me, you will love the upgraded traveller!), and extensive factory and dealer upgrades. Sea trials are available. The boat has three double cabins, a 57hp Yanmar engine, 200L fuel capacity, a 4.25m beam, 2.15m draft, and a 14.15m LOA.
The First 44 has been reviewed well internationally and by Boating NZ, praised for bridging the gap between a capable performance cruiser and a comfortable family yacht. This example is among the best-specified available anywhere.
At this level of saving on a brand-new Beneteau First 44, tax-paid boat already in the country, this listing will not hang around.
If you've been considering a modern performance cruiser, now is the time to take a closer look.
