Interview with Willy, owner of an Oceanis 30.1 and Oceanis 34.1
Could you please introduce yourself?
Yes of course, I am Willy Luiten from the Netherlands.
How did you get started with sailing? On what kind of boats, and why?
We started sailing in 2023. My daughter was 13 at the time, and after several years on a motorboat, she fell in love with sailing. My daughter and myself went for a sailing course for Dayskipper and in 2024 we bought our first Beneteau Oceanis 30.1.
What are your most memorable sailing experiences on board?
I think it was when I sailed for the first time without any instructor. Only my daughter and myself. We went from Vlissingen (NL) to Cadzand through the Westerschelde.
Who do you usually sail with?
I am used to sailing with my daughter.
Is there a destination or a moment at sea that left a lasting impression on you?
Not yet, so far we went to the Lakes in Veere and Bruinisse and last year for the first time we went to the North Sea.
Why did you choose a BENETEAU sailing yacht?
We chose a BENETEAU sailing yacht because at the Sailing school they had an Oceanis 40. And we liked the boat. The design and interior of the Oceanis are perfect when you want to sail with your family. It is good value for money.
Why this particular model?
We chose the Oceanis 34.1 because we are beginners and the Oceanis 30.1 was too small for the three of us for sleeping (my wife, daughter and myself) that's why we changed to the 34.1.
In your opinion, what sets a BENETEAU apart from other sailing yachts in terms of design?
I would say that a BENETEAU stands apart from other sailing yachts in terms of design, thanks to its optimal use of space.
Have you customized your yacht? If so, with which options or specific features?
Yes, we put more or less all options that are available on the Oceanis 34.1 on our boat (except from heater and airconditioning).
What are your future sailing plans?
Next year our plan is to sail to London. Our future plan is to move to an Oceanis 40.1 and sail to the South of France.
What would you say to someone considering joining the BENETEAU community?
I can only recommend the Beneteau brand. We are extremely satisfied with the two boats we own, and it's a pleasure to sail the Oceanis boats.
In your opinion, what are the best services offered by BENETEAU?
It is clearly the warranty service and the dealer network for me.
Published on 12.01.2026