The Beneteau First 40 2008 vs Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 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.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau First 40 2008 measures 41,4 feet overall (2008), giving it roughly 4,8 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 at 36,6 feet (2011). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau First 40 2008 tips the scales at 17 417 lbs — 951 lbs more than the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 at 16 466 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 2011 has a 385-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 40 2008's 40-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 34 2011 carries 211 gallons versus 37 gallons in the Beneteau First 40 2008. 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 First 40 2008 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 caps at 11. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau First 40 2008 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau First 40 2008 has a documented displacement of 17 417 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
The Beneteau First 40 2008 uses fractional_rig_sloop rigging. The Beneteau First 40 2008 has a documented auxiliary engine of 40 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 carries 85 gallons versus 53 gallons on the Beneteau First 40 2008 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau First 40 2008 at 41,4 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 at 36,6 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.