The Gran Turismo 36 is a bold entry in the sport cruiser market, offering a mix of sleek European styling, modern technology, and practical versatility. Designed by Beneteau, a name synonymous with quality and innovation, this 36-foot express cruiser captures the thrill of speed while ensuring a comfortable onboard lifestyle. Unlike some boats in its class that lean heavily toward either sport or leisure, the Gran Turismo 36 strikes an appealing middle ground, making it as suitable for fast-paced day trips as it is for relaxed overnight cruising.

From the moment you step aboard, the Gran Turismo 36 conveys a sense of sophistication. Its open cockpit design encourages social interaction, while the helm station, equipped with advanced controls and ergonomic seating, gives captains confidence at the wheel. Below deck, smartly laid-out living spaces with two cabins, a galley, and a head ensure that time spent aboard is both enjoyable and practical. This balance of performance and comfort is what makes the Gran Turismo 36 a standout in the 30–40 ft cruiser category.

Perfect Fit for Leisure and Adventure

The Gran Turismo 36 is designed for those who don’t want to compromise between excitement and relaxation. As a sport cruiser, it has the power and agility to deliver adrenaline-filled rides, yet its layout and amenities also make it an ideal boat for social gatherings and extended weekends away from shore.

Its spacious cockpit with convertible seating arrangements is perfect for entertaining friends, while the extended swim platform provides easy access to water sports. Meanwhile, the interior ensures you can wind down in comfort after a day of adventure. Whether you envision an afternoon of high-speed fun or a family escape to hidden coves, the Gran Turismo 36 adapts seamlessly.

Who Will Appreciate the Gran Turismo 36?

This model is an attractive choice for boaters who enjoy variety in their time on the water. Couples or young families who want a boat large enough for weekend trips but small enough to manage without a crew will find it appealing. Social boaters who enjoy hosting guests will appreciate the open-air cockpit and its well-placed seating, while performance-minded owners will enjoy the thrill of cruising at over 35 knots.

It also makes sense for buyers stepping up from smaller dayboats who are ready for their first real cruiser. With its manageable size, joystick controls, and forgiving hull design, it delivers confidence without overwhelming less-experienced captains.

How Does the Gran Turismo 36 Compare to Other Offshore Boats?

In the 35–40 ft category, many cruisers either emphasize speed at the expense of comfort or prioritize cabin space while sacrificing performance. The Gran Turismo 36 bridges this gap. Compared to similar models like the Prestige 420S or the Sea Ray Sundancer 370, the Gran Turismo stands out with its Air Step® hull design, which improves lift and fuel efficiency, and its twin outboard or sterndrive options that let owners tailor the boat to their preferences.

Whereas some competitors may feel cramped below deck, the Gran Turismo 36 manages to provide two private cabins and a spacious head without compromising its sporty exterior lines. For those who want a cruiser that is both fun to drive and inviting to live aboard, it offers a compelling alternative.

Key Specifications and Design Details

• Type: Sport Cruiser
• Length Overall (LOA): 37 ft 11 in (with platform)
• Beam: 11 ft 6 in
• Draft: 3 ft 9 in (approximate)
• Fuel Capacity: 200+ gallons
• Engines: Twin inboard diesel sterndrives or twin outboards (varies by package)
• Horsepower: 600–700 hp combined, depending on setup
• Top Speed: Around 35–38 knots (40+ mph)
• Cruise Speed: 22–27 knots (25–31 mph)
• Hull Design: Beneteau’s patented Air Step® V-shaped hull
• Accommodations: Two cabins, enclosed head with shower, compact galley, convertible salon

The design blends sleek lines with practical use of space. On deck, the Gran Turismo 36 features a hardtop with retractable sunroof, offering both protection and open-air freedom. Below, clever use of natural light makes the cabins feel larger than expected, and quality finishes elevate the interior beyond a purely functional role.

Thrilling Performance with User-Friendly Handling

Driving the Gran Turismo 36 feels engaging yet approachable. The Air Step® hull reduces drag, increases efficiency, and improves stability, which means smoother rides even in moderate chop. With twin engines delivering up to 700 hp, acceleration is brisk, and handling is precise.

Captains will appreciate joystick docking systems, which simplify tight maneuvers in crowded marinas. At cruising speeds, the boat feels steady and efficient, burning less fuel than traditional hull designs in its class. The helm itself is thoughtfully designed with good visibility, ergonomic seating, and integrated navigation screens, creating a commanding yet comfortable driving experience.

Safety and Practical Considerations

Safety is built into the DNA of the Gran Turismo 36. The high bow and deep freeboard keep passengers secure, while wide side decks and handrails encourage confident movement around the boat. The extended swim platform is low to the water, making it easy for swimmers and watersports enthusiasts to reboard.

Owners should be mindful that as a performance-oriented cruiser, it’s tempting to push the engines frequently, which can increase fuel consumption. Regular maintenance of the hull and propulsion system is key to keeping performance consistent and safe. That said, for its size, the Gran Turismo 36 offers excellent balance between fun and peace of mind.

Notable Highlights and Everyday Benefits

The Gran Turismo 36 comes with several standout features that enhance daily use. These include:

• A retractable hardtop for open-air cruising or full shade
• Spacious cockpit with modular seating and outdoor galley options
• Twin private cabins below deck with privacy doors
• Efficient galley for meal preparation during weekend trips
• Premium sound system and entertainment options
• Extended swim platform for swimming, diving, and watersports

The benefits are clear: owners enjoy the thrill of a sport cruiser without sacrificing the ability to stay aboard comfortably for longer trips. This dual-purpose design is what makes it such an appealing boat for diverse lifestyles.

What Owners and Reviewers Are Saying

Early owners praise the Gran Turismo 36 for its blend of speed, comfort, and usability. Many highlight the cockpit layout as perfect for entertaining and the interior cabins as surprisingly spacious for a boat under 40 feet.

Professional reviewers also note the Air Step® hull as a defining feature, giving the boat efficiency and handling that rivals larger, more expensive models. Some mention that while cabin headroom is modest, the intelligent layout offsets it with practical use of every inch of space.

Storage, Upkeep, and Long-Term Costs

Storage on board is plentiful for a boat of this size, with under-seat compartments, galley cabinets, and cabin lockers providing space for gear, provisions, and personal belongings. The cockpit design also integrates hidden storage areas for fenders, lines, and watersports equipment.

In terms of ownership costs, the Gran Turismo 36 is more economical than larger cruisers while still offering a premium experience. Dockage fees are lower than for yachts over 40 feet, and fuel consumption, while notable at high speeds, is offset by the efficiency of the hull design. Routine maintenance remains a must, but with twin engines instead of triples or quads, servicing costs are manageable.

Final Verdict on the Gran Turismo 36

The Gran Turismo 36 is a sport cruiser that delivers on its promise: excitement on the water paired with comfort at anchor. It’s a versatile boat, equally at home entertaining guests, offering weekend escapes, or thrilling its captain with sporty handling.

While it may not have the cabin volume of larger cruisers, its ability to combine two private cabins, a galley, and a well-appointed cockpit into a sleek 36-foot package makes it one of the most balanced options in its class. For boaters seeking a model that feels both luxurious and fun to drive, the Gran Turismo 36 stands out as a smart choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Gran Turismo 36 suitable for overnight trips?
Yes. With two private cabins, a galley, and an enclosed head, it’s ideal for couples or families looking for weekend getaways.

What kind of engines does the Gran Turismo 36 offer?
It is available with either twin inboard diesel sterndrives or twin outboard configurations, allowing flexibility based on performance and preference.

How does the Air Step® hull benefit the boat?
The Air Step® hull reduces drag and improves fuel efficiency, providing a smoother, faster ride with better stability.

Can I manage the Gran Turismo 36 without a crew?
Absolutely. With joystick docking controls and its manageable size, it’s designed for owner-operators.

What is the average cruising speed?
The Gran Turismo 36 comfortably cruises between 22 and 27 knots, balancing speed with fuel efficiency.

Fly Yachts provides a full range of services, starting with a large inventory of yachts for sale and information about luxury yachts, super yachts, and center consoles, all easily found from their homepage. To learn about their company history, team, and expert knowledge, check their About Us page, and if you want a custom yacht built, visit Build a Yacht. They feature travel options to various charter destinations around the world and list many yachts charter choices for private bookings. If you want to sell your vessel, the Sell Your Yacht page explains their process and support. For private aviation, they offer a selection of aircraft for sale. You can stay up to date on industry updates and company activities on the Gulfstream News page, and find yachting tips or advice in their Compass Articles. For any help or to get in touch, you can use the Contact page.