It’s true! The lines are so clean on the Gran Turismo – she looks fast standing still. But don’t just take it from us – Flagstaff Marine chatted with the newest owner of the Gran Turismo 40 to find out what’s so special about his Beneteau.
New owner David is one man who has fallen hard for the Gran Turismo 40’s good looks. Right off the bat, he had this to say:
“The Gran Turismo 40 is a great class-leading boat and such a joy to drive.”
We couldn’t agree more. Italian design, chic French style – the Beneteau Gran Turismo really is in a class by herself. The styling on this range of chic sports cruisers draws the eye and pulls at the heartstrings.
For David, the decision to buy the Gran Turismo 40 was a big step up in size and investment from their trailer boat, so it wasn’t a decision he took lightly. It was the incredible style and competitive price point that really won him over.
“When I first looked at the Gran Turismo 40, I was blown away. The styling is superb, much better than anything on the market at that price point … none will look as great out on the water or moored up. With its freeform cockpit and central driving position it dares to be different and stands out from the crowd.”
The clever layout and thoughtful use of space on board also really impressed both David and his wife, Sally.
“When we started looking at boats, we weren’t really sure what we wanted, but what became very clear was that the headroom below decks was a major factor. My wife is 6ft tall so this determined the size of the boat.
We really liked the wide stairway to the below decks and the glass overhead panel. This meant that the below decks area was a usable space and not just a cramped space for sleeping.
Originally, I wanted a sun lounger near the back of the boat but found that the BBQ was a better use of the space with the compromise that the seating converts to a large lounger that is shaded by the sun.
We loved the flexibility of the cockpit layout and the real feel of open space; other boats we looked at were more structured and felt claustrophobic.”
Beneteau Air Step 2 innovation, inspired by aeronautical technology, delivers a smooth and controlled ride even at high speeds in rough seas. We asked David if the latest in Beneteau technology lives up to its promise.
“I managed to get the Gran Turismo 40 up to 39 knots on a nice calm day and it was stable and reactive. The Air Step 2 seems to add some smoothness, especially when the sea is a little choppy. One of the other boats we test drove was far bumpier on the water.
With the larger engines, it’s very quick to plane and responsive to turn, making it great fun. It was a little scary taking out a boat that was so much bigger than our trailer boat, however, we have quickly got used to it. Even Sally, who was initially very nervous, was happy to push past 30 knots.”
David and Sally have just welcomed a brand new puppy into their lives and it turns out the Gran Turismo 40’s fully submersible swim platform was the perfect spot for little Sandy to get her cool her paws without getting scared.
Designed by Nuvolari Lenard, the Gran Turismo 40 gives a newer, cleaner, edgier face to the sport cruiser. It’s this style and finish that really impressed David.
“It’s all about the finish; we love the color palette and quality touches. The boat is just perfect. We loaded it with extras but there is nothing I would change.”
The Gran Turismo 40’s flawless interior and exterior spaces complement each other effortlessly. There are an outdoor galley aft and a huge sunbathing area forward. She features two spacious cabins and ahead with a separate shower. An electric sunroof above her centre console welcomes in the outdoors.
Thanks to David for sharing his impressions – We wish him and Sally an incredible summer out on the water in their new Gran Turismo 40.
If you’d like to view the Gran Turismo 40, contact Flagstaff Marine today.
Please also feel free to browse our boat owner stories, and keep an eye on our boat brokerage news.
