And so, she leaves...

Message from Laurent Fabre, Beneteau's VP of Marketing & Sales (Powerboat division):

Let us first say "Thank you" to of all our partners, who have joined our team and made this journey possible; Cummins, a long term Beneteau partner was the first to get on board, quickly followed by  Onan, Raymarine. Navionics, SGB Finance our financial partner, Dometic, Valvtect, Delorme, Interlux, Waterway guide, Trawlerfest, the AGLCA, Marina Life, Zodiac, Westmarine, Blackdog Propellers, Wheems & Plath, and Boat US. And let me mention T2H Advertising, our communication agency whose own crew has done a terrific job with helping us promote our Loop project and designing a superb internet site.

 … and of course, our local dealer Annapolis Yacht Sales who commissioned and prepared the boat!

So here she is, ready to go after several hours of tests. She already went through a few big waves on her way to Norfolk, where she got the blessing of the AGLCA.

And now she is leaving Annapolis... It is only the start of a 6,000nm trip and 4 months… but, as far as I am concerned, it is already a success.

Because everybody in the industry knows Beneteau is making things happen, is investing in the market, is creating the buzz… and is poised to seduce more customers. Over the past few months, the project has already gathered tremendous exposure in the media, and attracted many prospects for this boat and even a customer for another Swift 34.

To the seasoned loopers though, we owe an apology, or rather an explanation. Some may argue we are “not really” doing the loop: going too fast to enjoy it, changing crew as if it were a relay race, not meeting all the must-see highlights, and setting a demanding schedule. All of this is true, and indeed none of us will pretend we did the loop. We wish we could, but the normal course of business continues for all of us – with many boat shows and product launches to plan. Several captains will take responsibilities for different legs, because the whole purpose is to give as many people – as safely & logistically possible – the chance to complete part of the loop.

What is critical, however, is that our Swift 34 will indeed complete the full loop. Our intention is to demonstrate that a simple boat -- 34 feet, single engine -- makes it easy, enjoyable and affordable to cruise the great loop! Of course we, as a boat builder, will also learn a great deal from that adventure, which means loopers will ultimately enjoy better boats from Beneteau in the future!

We wish The Greatest Loop and her crew safe travels, fair winds, and a wonderful time on the Great Loop.

Godspeed!