Beneteau Swift Trawler 43Will it be the new best-seller?

Jan-Ole Puls

 · 17.09.2026

The new cruising yacht combines the distinctive trawler silhouette with a modern, clean design.
Photo: Beneteau
Beneteau unveiled the Swift Trawler 43 at the Cannes Yachting Festival in September 2026. The 13.13-metre motor yacht is available in two versions: as a saloon with an accessible roof terrace and as a flybridge. Both variants are designed for long-distance cruising.

The Swift Trawler 43 is the latest model in Beneteau’s trawler range, developed in collaboration with the design firm Dixon Yacht Design. It will make its debut at the Cannes Yachting Festival from 8 to 13 September 2026. Two Yanmar diesel engines, each producing 320 PS, power the yacht, which, according to the manufacturer, can reach a top speed of up to 24 knots. At a cruising speed of between 8 and 12 knots, Beneteau states that the yacht has a range of over 500 nautical miles.

Two versions with different approaches

The Swift Trawler 43 is being launched in two versions. The Sedan version does away with a traditional flybridge and instead offers an accessible roof terrace covering over ten square metres, which can be reached via a staircase in the cockpit. The deck can support up to 200 kilograms, enough for bicycles, paddleboards or kayaks. Several mooring points and a waterproof socket make it easy to use. With the optional Relax Lifestyle package, the roof terrace is transformed into a lounge: this includes teak flooring, an awning with carbon fibre supports and outdoor furniture. Electric roof hatches above the owner’s cabin and the Silent Boat package with solar panels round off the range of options.

The flybridge version is all about classic flybridge living. A U-shaped seating area seats up to six people; the backrests can be adjusted so that guests can face forwards whilst the boat is underway. A sliding sofa for two people and an electrically height-adjustable table, which can be converted into a lounging area, complete the space. The flybridge can accommodate a total of seven people. On the port side is a bar with a barbecue, ice maker and fridge, whilst the helm on the starboard side offers a clear view both forward and aft. Standard equipment includes a bimini top that folds forward, complete with LED lighting.

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Well-thought-out exterior design

The exterior design is modelled on the larger models in the Grand Trawler range: the lines are modern and dynamic, whilst the forward-sloping windscreen defines the profile. Large windows run the length of the superstructure, flooding the interior with natural light. The wide starboard side deck facilitates access to the bow, whilst a side door next to the helm connects the cockpit and saloon directly. The bathing platform at the stern offers ample space for swimming and water sports equipment. A folding anchor light mast or an optional mast with a radome reduces the clearance height, thereby making it easier to navigate inland waterways and pass under low bridges.

A bright interior with a flexible layout

The saloon is connected to the cockpit via large sliding doors. Panoramic windows and side windows that open allow plenty of light in. On the port side is a raised U-shaped seating area that can be converted into a double bed in just a few simple steps; a curtain ensures privacy. There is additional storage space under the floor. The galley is situated further aft than on the previous model, bringing it closer to the cockpit; it features a three-burner hob, an oven, large work surfaces and a stainless-steel sink.

The helm station has been redesigned with ergonomics in mind: a two-seater with a pull-out footrest and storage compartments comes as standard. A swivelling helm seat with an electrically adjustable table and a retractable 43-inch television is available as an option. A Yanmar joystick with proportional bow thrusters makes manoeuvring easier, whilst the Seakeeper stabilisation system is designed to ensure added tranquillity on board.

Comfortable cabins for longer journeys

The owner’s cabin in the bow features a large double bed with a view, a two-door wardrobe and several storage compartments under the bed. The en-suite bathroom has a separate shower cubicle with a seat. The guest cabin on the port side can be configured with two single beds or a double bed and has direct access to the guest bathroom with a separate shower.

The galley on the starboard side has been redesigned and is available with either a washer-dryer combination, a drawer-style fridge or a wine cooler. The optional Luxe package enhances the interiors with teak or oak.

Technical specifications:

  • Overall length: 13.13 metres
  • Width: 4.25 metres
  • Draught: 0.97 metres
  • Displacement: 11,217 kilograms
  • Height above the waterline: 5.21 metres
  • Engine: 2 x Yanmar diesel engines, 320 PS each
  • Maximum speed: 23–24 knots (manufacturer’s specification)
  • Cruising speed: 8–12 knots
  • Range: over 500 nautical miles at cruising speed (manufacturer’s specification)
  • Fuel tank: 1,170 litres
  • Fresh water tank: 400 litres
  • Cabins: 3–4
  • CE certification: B8 / C10 / D10
  • Drive: inboard engine

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Jan-Ole Puls

Jan-Ole Puls

Editor Test & Technology

Ole Puls was born in Schleswig in 1999. He quickly swapped the football pitch for the Schlei and grew up sailing a wide variety of dinghies and tall ships. From his grandfather's self-built wooden opti and a Europe to a 49er and an X362 Sport, there was a lot to choose from. After leaving school, Puls decided to train as a boat builder at the high-tech shipyard Knierim Yachtbau in Kiel in 2016. He successfully completed his training in 2020 and stayed at the shipyard as a bachelor. In 2022, he decided not only to build boats, but also to test them. Since then, he has been working for Delius Klasing Verlag in the Test & Technology section of BOOTE magazine. The training he received and the eye for detail and quality of workmanship he acquired help him immensely today. Even though he is a regatta sailor with heart and soul, he feels right at home on motorboats and enjoys separating his professional and private lives and yet combining them. Because we all know one thing: there is simply no better place to be than on the water.

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