The Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 measures 36,0 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 9,7 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 at 26,3 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 tips the scales at 3 417 lbs — 1 775 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 at 1 642 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 has a 415-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 27 SE 2011's 10-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 is rated for 10 passengers, while the Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 caps at 8. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 has a documented displacement of 3 417 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 has a documented auxiliary engine of 10 hp.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2013 at 36,0 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 27 SE 2011 at 26,3 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.