When two boats share the same hull type — in this case both the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 and the Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 are modified vee designs with fiberglass construction — the buying decision usually comes down to a handful of practical questions: how many people are you putting on the water, how far do you trailer, and what does your tow vehicle weigh?
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 measures 39,7 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 3,1 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 Swift Trawler 34 2011 tips the scales at 16 466 lbs — 267 lbs less than the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 at 16 199 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 423-hp advantage over the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013's 2-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 172 gallons in the Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 11 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Gran Turismo 38 2013 at 39,7 ft is the right call if deck space, comfort, and entertaining are top of your list. The Beneteau Swift Trawler 34 2011 at 36,6 ft wins on trailering ease, likely lower purchase price, and simpler docking — a solid choice for a buyer who wants more boat for less money.