Interview with Philippe, owner of an Oceanis 37.1
Can you introduce yourself?
My name is Philippe, I am French and I live in Haute-Savoie.
How did you start sailing? On which type of boat(s) and why?
I started sailing thanks to the French Sailing School of Haute-Saône, on a lake a few miles from my family home, when I was about 10 years old. I tried windsurfing, then dinghy and catamaran sailing. I immediately developed a passion for sailing.
What are your favourite memories of your time on board?
I would say night sailing with a reduced crew and/or family.
Who do you usually sail with?
I usually sail alone or with my family.
Is there a destination or moment at sea that has left a lasting impression on you?
I don't have enough experience other than coastal cruising to have such memories. Encounters with dolphins and other marine animals remain deeply memorable.
Why did you choose a BENETEAU sailboat?
This is my third BENETEAU sailboat. We still have the FIRST 24 and this beautiful OCEANIS 37.1. Having compared it with other brands: they are reliable, well-designed, and elegant sailboats. The range is extensive, and the ‘Performance’ and ‘First’ versions are still available. This option is essential for me. Technically speaking, the electrical circuits are well designed. The counter-mould is a plus for cleanliness and finish. The water circuit is also very clear.
Why choose this particular model?
It was to be an Oceanis or a FIRST model. We chose Oceanis for the quality of the interior and the spaciousness. We immediately felt comfortable on bord. The children loved her at first sight. The ‘First line’ option is my ‘Performance’ touch.
What do you think differentiates a Beneteau from other sailboats in terms of design?
It is clearly the sleek lines, the elegance on the water, and the performance of the boats.
Have you customised your sailboat? If so, with which options and specific features?
Yes, I chose blue covering and a black bimini top. I was a bit hesitant about the colour blue at first, but the results on the water are undeniable. It is constantly elegant.
What are your future sailing plans?
First of all, the sale of our old FEELING 416 for the Oceanis 37.1 marked the end of our round-the-world sailing dream. Our story will be rewritten with this sailboat: first the Mediterranean coast (Balearic Islands and Corsica in sight), perhaps a tour of the Mediterranean in a few years, and a further destination (Atlantic Ocean, etc.). But it is still too early to decide, both for us (12 years of coastal sailing only) and for our new friend (Oceanis 37.1).
What would you say to someone interested in joining the BENETEAU community?
Go for it; they are reliable, high-quality models, and the company is a world leader.
What do you consider to be the best services that Beneteau provides? (warranty, network, etc.)
The best service is the network of this long-established brand. There is also the guarantee of finding parts on a long-term basis.
Thank you for your testimonial, Mr. Philippe !
Published on 24.11.2025