It is with immense pride as the official Queensland Groupe Beneteau partner for sail and outboard power that Spirit Marine celebrated the 140th anniversary of BENETEAU across 2024.
This milestone anniversary encouraged us to reflect on the storied history—and exciting future—of a company that has been catering to boating enthusiasts since their inception.
For us the highlight of the year was the launch of the brand new Antares 12 in November.
BENETEAU’s commitment to manufacturing sailing yachts and motorboats of supreme quality has made them a worldwide brand. Their meticulous attention to detail, dedication to using high-quality materials, and willingness to consistently innovate has allowed this Vendée-based company to master the art of building vessels that impress and delight.
BENETEAU’s Inspirational History
In 1884, a naval architect named Benjamin Bénéteau began building sailing trawlers for fishermen. Twenty-six years later, the Beneteau boatyard introduced its first sardine fishing boat, Vainqueur des jaloux. This would be the first of many boats that the Bénéteau family would debut over the course of the next century.
At 21 years old, André Bénéteau took over his father’s boatyard. André launched the Jeannot and La Poursuivante in 1930; both symbolized his passion for building fast and reliable boats for fishermen.
In 1964, Annette Bénéteau-Roux joined the company—a third-generation businesswoman eager to give BENETEAU boats more widespread appeal, she excelled while at the helm of
BENETEAU. Under her leadership, the company began manufacturing recreational boats, participated in the the Paris Boat Show for the first time, and proudly launched a four-berth sailing yacht called Jeanneau Alizé. The more popular sport-fishing became, the more successful BENETEAU became; models Forban and Galion were well-received by boating enthusiasts, and the same can be said for Baroudeur, a fishing cruiser that came complete with a cabin designed for on-board living.
As the world’s leading sailboat builder, BENETEAU expanded into the American market and continued to produce new models. In 1995, BENETEAU’s reputation was strengthened by the addition of Chantiers Jeanneau.
BENETEAU has produced hundreds of thousands of yachts. They’ve boldly revolutionized the industry and have been recognized around the world for their achievements. The strategic approaches they’ve taken and the values they uphold remind buyers, dealers, and partners that boating dreams really do come true.
Space, luxury, comfort, timelessness . . . these are the principles upon which BENETEAU has operated. Over the past few decades, BENETEAU has focused on sustainability and energy efficiency as well as technology and philanthropy. In 2005, for example, Beneteau Foundation was created; the Foundation seeks to protect the environment, support innovation, and promote the heritage of recreational boating.
Spirit Marine and BENETEAU
For 140 years and counting, BENETEAU has earned its status as one of the most beloved boating companies in the world. By forging strong ties with the maritime community it serves, this company has emphasized that establishing a connection to the sea allows boaters to experience a sense of freedom and exhilaration that is simply unparalleled on land.
Groupe Beneteau has succeeded in bringing countless individuals, couples, and groups together on the water, beckoning them to set sail in good company, relax as they see fit, and enjoy the panoramic views they’re afforded.
As one of Australia’s leading boutique brokers of both sailing and motorised vessels, Spirit Marine is thrilled to be the official Queensland distribution partner for Groupe Beneteau.
The world’s largest recreational boat builder employees thousands of talented individuals who are as passionate about water and boating as we are. With production facilities around the world, BENETEAU has continued to grow and thrive, to innovate and inspire.
Our team at Spirit Marine remains grateful to be a trusted distribution partner; our ongoing relationship with BENETEAU allows us to sell the quality products for which we are known, plus establish relationships with clients who rely on us for our outstanding service and knowledge about BENETEAU vessels in our inventory.
Celebrating BENETEAU
It is a true privilege to introduce BENETEAU vessels to new and seasoned boaters who visit our marine dealership in Hope Harbour. There’s always so much to say about these vessels—the designs they showcase, the features they encompass, the prestige they cultivate.
With summer upon us, we kindly encourage new and loyal customers alike to visit Spirit Marine and check out our range of boats . Proudly headquartered in the heart of Australia’s recreational boating sector on Queensland’s Gold Coast, Spirit Marines will be celebrating this anniversary because it speaks to the importance of being a discerning boat buyer and enjoying all the luxuries of a well-built vessel.
We look forward to celebrating BENETEAU’s anniversary with you. Perhaps you’ll consider purchasing a new product for your boating pleasure or stop by to share stories about the meaningful memories you’ve made on your BENETEAU boat. We are eager to celebrate this anniversary as a show of respect for BENETEAU and the admiration we have for their past, present, and future.
BENETEAU’s official website contains a comprehensive list of events that will be taking place all year round as part of the company’s anniversary celebration. Challenges, races, regattas, owner events, and meet-ups are scheduled, so if you are able to attend one or more of these events, we encourage you to do so!
The 140th anniversary of BENETEAU denoted the importance of striving for excellence, adapting to an ever-changing industry, and giving clients the opportunity to invest in products that they purchase with excitement and the utmost confidence. We would like to relay our sincerest thanks to all the customers who have trusted us to help them purchase a BENETEAU vessel and a hearty congratulations to BENETEAU
on this monumental anniversary.