Interview with Francesco B., owner of an Oceanis 30.1

« I love sailing in hidden coves, where the water is crystal-clear, the wind is calm and the waves are smooth. »

Could you introduce yourself?

My name is Francesco Brognara and I am Italian.


How did you start sailing?

I used to sail a bit when I was a child, but I only really started sailing as a skipper about twenty years ago, when I was in my thirties. I never stopped after that.

Then I bought my own sailing boat, and she gives me immense satisfaction: a BENETEAU Oceanis 30.1, named Pierina 2. Why choose sailing? There are a thousand reasons, but the first one that comes to mind is quite simply my love for water.

itw-francesco-brognara-1

What are your most memorable sailing experiences on board?

All my experiences at sea have left a lasting impression on me and, with practice, every sailing trip becomes a memorable experience. Of course, I didn’t immediately cross the Strait of Otranto, sail around Leuca or reach the Rock of Jabuka in the middle of the Adriatic !

I remember my first sailing trip as skipper very clearly: it was on an 11-metre boat, sailing across the Tuscan archipelago.

It was an unforgettable memory! Reaching any destination using only the wind, being able to steer towards a safe harbour, managing to drop anchor exactly where you wanted… or not!

itw-francesco-brognara-2

Who do you usually go sailing with?

I usually go sailing with my partner or with friends, but I also go sailing on my own.


Is there a destination or moment at sea that has left a lasting impression on you?

I love sailing in hidden coves, where the water is crystal-clear, the wind is calm and the waves are smooth. Watching the boat calmly floating at anchor while I enjoy the sunset and relax after my day… these are magical moments.

itw-francesco-brognara-3

Why choose a BENETEAU sailing boat ?

One day, I decided to stop renting, it was about time to get my own boat. That day, I made my decision very quickly: I chose an well-established brand that I trusted and that offered a sailing boat suited to my budget, my level of experience and my space requirements. If I had to make the same decision again, I would sign up again without hesitation !


Why choose this particular model?

The Oceanis 30.1 offers generous interior volume. In her 8.99 metres, there is everything I need and even more. I think it has everything an owner could wish in a boat of this size, and I challenge anyone to find a better sailing boat in its category!

itw-francesco-brognara-4

What do you think differentiates a BENETEAU from other sailboats in terms of design?

In my opinion, above all, it’s excellent value for money!


Have you customised your sailing boat?

I chose to equip my Oceanis 30.1 with almost all the options. As a result, I have a very self-sufficient boat, ready for long-distance cruising in the utmost comfort.

itw-francesco-brognara-5

What are your future sailing plans?  

I would like to acquire more experience so that I can undertake offshore crossings over the next five years.


What would you say to someone considering joining the BENETEAU community?

That’s an excellent choice!


In your opinion, what are the best services provided by BENETEAU?

I must say that the customer service adviser currently assigned to me is fantastic. He is always available to answer my questions and give me advice. He helped me to find spare parts, manuals and technical information, and was able to help me when I was a bit short on experience. I think that after-sales service is a key factor when buying a boat!

itw-francesco-brognara-6

Published on 29.09.2026