The Beneteau First 34.7 2005 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 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.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 425 hp, the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 has a 404-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 34.7 2005's 21-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 carries 211 gallons versus 20 gallons in the Beneteau First 34.7 2005. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 is rated for 11 passengers, while the Beneteau First 34.7 2005 caps at 10. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 34.7 2005 uses Sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 34.7 2005 has a documented auxiliary engine of 21 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 carries 85 gallons versus 26 gallons on the Beneteau First 34.7 2005 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34S 2011 at 36,6 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau First 34.7 2005 at 34,0 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.