Bénéteau to launch Figaro 3 prototype

19 Jun 2017

The infusion of the hull © Jean-Dominique Billaud

In the wake of the Solitaire du Figaro, Groupe Bénéteau Racing Division is creating the successor to the Figaro Bénéteau 2.

The prototype for the ‘very first one-design foiling monohull’ Figaro Bénéteau 3, is on target for launch in July.

“In terms of timing, we’re pretty much on track, give or take a couple of weeks,” said Marc Vaillier, head of the programme at Groupe Bénéteau.

The first sea trials and balance procedures will shortly be carried out on the prototype’s hull before mass production of the one-design foiling monohull gets underway.

During the two month validation period, tests will include the position of the keel in relation to the mast, which will enable the hull structure to be confirmed and the position of the hardware.

The plan is to start production in early October when Bénéteau is seeking to release one or two hulls in advance and keep to a tempo of one design a week. The Figaro Bénéteau 3 is due to replace the Figaro Bénéteau 2 in 2019.

via Boating Business | Bénéteau to launch Figaro 3 prototype.