34 Beneteau Swift Trawler

Source: Dag Pike, Motor Boat & Yachting

This latest addition to the Beneteau range of Swift Trawlers is a remarkable boat. At just 36’7″, she represents the smallest model in the builder’s lineup and quite possibly the most compact trawler yacht in the world. Even so, this single-engine cruiser is every inch a serious, seagoing vessel.

Here is the perfect platform for a couple, and these owners will be happy to know that the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 can proudly stand alongside its larger siblings (the 42 and 52) since it’s designed and engineered with the same level of quality. However, I do think there is something very appealing about the 34 simply because of its size.

Design professionals have considerable latitude when creating larger yachts, but the process of making a trawler this size look in proportion is a challenge. Fortunately, the exterior lines of the Beneteau 34 are so well-done they command attention. At the same time, the cabin boasts a practical interior with headroom so generous you can comfortably stand in all areas. The interior does not feel cramped in any way, which makes me wonder how Beneteau managed to achieve all of this. The secret: The builder focuses on good, sensible design, both inside and out.

Boarding the 34 is easy. You can step onto the swim platform and then through the transom door or use the bulwark door on the starboard side. There is only the door to starboard because the 34 has an asymmetrical superstructure: The deck is built low on the starboard side right up to the foredeck, but on the port side it rises up directly from the cockpit. Ultimately, the starboard side is the better one for passengers to use.

Aft is a no-nonsense cockpit with double sliding doors that lead to the salon. Here, as elsewhere on board, simplicity rules. The square salon has a settee and dining table � pull up the director chairs when you have extra guests. The helm is forward and it boasts excellent visibility, in part due to the thin metal frame of the windshield and the vertical salon windows. To port of the helm is the galley, which has everything a live-aboard would need, including a double sink, two-burner cooktop, oven and small dishwasher (an option). You need to crouch to use the oven and dishwasher, but that seems a small price to pay for such convenient appliances on a boat of this size.

Stairs lead down to the overnight accommodations, which include the main cabin forward and guest cabin with bunks to port. (The head is to starboard.) It’s down here that you become aware of the compact size of the hull, although the cabins look comfortable and there’s good stowage and even a TV forward. If you need extra sleeping space, the salon settee folds out to a narrow double bed. The interior finish (stained hardwood) says traditional, and it makes for a warm and inviting atmosphere. There are choices in furnishings, but in general, they are subdued with the accent on comfort rather than trendsetting style.

Beneteau has managed to create a large flybridge without compromising the boat’s overall appearance. Beside the helm seat is an L-shaped settee and table. Aft is an open space that could be used for sunbathing but is primarily for stowing a tender that gets launched and recovered with a boom attached to the tall mast in traditional fashion. It is this arrangement that gives the 34 its character, creating a practical and no-nonsense style that also delights the eye. The Beneteau 34 really does look the part of the compact trawler yacht.

It acts the part too, as I learned during the sea trial. The performance lives up to every expectation. I suspect that cruising in the 34 would be a real pleasure.

The semi displacement hull has a hard chine that allows the bottom to lift partially when coming onto plane. At the bow, the entry is fine below the chine, so it cuts cleanly through the waves. Flared topsides, which keep the spray under control, and the near vertical stem create that traditional trawler look. Below the waterline, a skeg provides directional stability for the hull, which has only a shallow V at the stern. Spray rails running aft also enhance directional stability and generate lift. A spade rudder is mounted close to the transom and does its job very effectively.

Out at sea, the performance is lively with good acceleration from the 425 hp diesel. One of the joys of running the 34 is that you can do so comfortably at any chosen speed up to the 20-knot maximum. Thus, you can have performance or economy when you need it, yet you’ll always have a comfortable ride. This hull cuts cleanly through the waves heading into the seas, and you feel very much in control in following seas, thanks to the large rudder, although at full speed, the steering does feel a little oversensitive. Fortunately, the autopilot manages to control the heading very effectively.

The test boat was fitted with bow and stern thrusters, which I’d recommend for this single-screw boat. Yet even without the stern thruster (an option), it’s possible for a skipper to handle the Beneteau easily in tight spaces. The rudder is effective at slow speeds, and a quick touch on the throttles will adjust heading.

The Cummins diesel is installed under the salon floor. To gain access, move the table and lift the carpet; once that’s done, all of the service points are accessible. If you go for the generator option, it’s installed in the locker under the cockpit sole, where there’s also space for fender and line stowage.

In all, the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 is a remarkable boat and a fine design achievement. It would make an excellent cruising yacht for a couple, but it could also accommodate a family. It looks good, it feels good, and it’s one of the most practical boats I have come across in a long time.