The Beneteau Grand Trawler 63 stands as the largest and most expensive vessel ever produced by the renowned French manufacturer. Designed to compete with high-end luxury yachts, this model represents a significant shift for Beneteau, moving into a price point of approximately £2.5 million where it rubs shoulders with some of the industry's most established premium brands. In a video review by YachtBuyer, host Jack Haines explores whether this 63-foot flagship truly delivers on its promise of being a trawler by nature rather than just by name. With an incredible range and a focus on live-aboard comfort, the Grand Trawler 63 aims to redefine what owners can expect from a modern long-distance cruiser.
Exceptional Range and True Long-Distance Capability
One of the most striking features of the Beneteau Grand Trawler 63 is its extraordinary range of 2,500 nautical miles, a figure that justifies its Trawler designation. While it is a semi-planing design capable of reaching a top speed of about 20 knots, its true strength lies in its efficiency at displacement speeds. At a steady 9 knots, the vessel can cover 1,000 nautical miles, but for those willing to cruise at 5 knots, the range extends to the full 2,500-mile potential. To ensure comfort during these long passages, especially in heavier seas at lower speeds, Beneteau includes stabilizers as standard equipment.
Open-Air Living and a Social Flybridge
The exterior design emphasizes an open, connected feel, starting with the aft deck. The transom features extensive glass to provide an unblocked view of the sea, particularly when relaxing in the cockpit's freestanding furniture. Below, a large hydraulic bathing platform sinks into the water and includes built-in steps and dinghy chocks for easy tender management.
The flybridge is impressively long, offering one of the largest top decks in its class. It serves as a secondary social hub, equipped with a wet bar, Kenyon grill, fridge, and sink. For those looking for eco-friendly power, the hardtop can be fitted with the silent boat pack, which replaces the sunroof with solar panels capable of running essential systems like air conditioning and stabilizers for up to eight hours overnight.
Practical Main Deck Layout and Premium Helm Features
Inside, the main deck is designed with a focus on flow, allowing easy movement between the helm, galley, and lounging areas. The galley is positioned amidships, a practical choice for passage making that allows the cook to communicate easily with the helm or the saloon. It is fully equipped with an induction hob, oven, and even a dishwasher, though not a full-size domestic model.
The interior helm is a serious affair, featuring a proper ship's wheel and triple Raymarine MFD screens. Beneteau has also added premium touches often seen in more expensive brands, such as dedicated, secure storage for china espresso and tea cups. While some might find the woodwork less opulent than that of a Princess or Sunseeker, the overall aesthetic is bright and practical.
Flexible Accommodation and Strong Onboard Comfort
The lower deck is available in multiple configurations, including a three-cabin layout that provides exceptional privacy with three separate bathrooms. The owner’s cabin is located amidships and spans the full beam of the boat, featuring a completely flat floor and vast amounts of storage.
The VIP cabin forward is equally impressive, utilizing an angled berth to maximize floor space and take full advantage of the huge hull windows. Throughout the lower deck, the headroom is a standout feature, even for those over six feet tall. Additionally, the vessel includes a crew cabin at the stern that doubles as a utility space, featuring a washer-dryer and direct access to the engine room.
Power, Handling and the Luxury Trawler Proposition
The Grand Trawler 63 is powered by twin MAN 730 horsepower engines. The engine room is intelligently laid out with nearly six feet of headroom and easy access to major components like the Sleipner fins and generator. For owners who prefer to handle the boat themselves, the machinery space is designed for relatively easy maintenance, including clear-bowl fuel filters that allow for quick visual inspections.
Despite its size, the boat is designed for ease of handling, with independent bow and stern thrusters and an optional joystick system that combines thrusters and props for stress-free docking. Ultimately, while the price tag moves Beneteau into a more competitive luxury tier, the Grand Trawler 63 offers a compelling package of real estate, range, and flexibility for those looking to live on board for extended periods.
Photo: Screenshot/YachtBuyer
