Help!!! I am considering purchasing a 2001 model 320 with a furled mail, shoal keel and all options. The alternative I am considering is a 2001 Beneteau with a full main, full keel and all the options. Both boats are in like-new condition. I sail on a lake, single hand much of the time but an buying a bigger boat than my current 23 foot Columbia principally for cruising and entertaining - not racing - but it is nice to have a boat that can be spirited at times in the right conditions. Anyone have an opinion on one versus the other? Anyone have an opinion of a Hunter 320? Anyone have an opinion of a furled main versus a full main? Thanks for the help! Betty
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Toss Up, Maybe
The Bene will point higher and accelerate better than the Hunter. It will be more work and you'll have to watch the sounder more carefully. OTOH, the Hunter will sail more often with less depth concern. Furling mains reduce drive and (sometimes) pointing. Likewise the shoal keel, but usually in light winds. If you are out a lot by yourself, I think the better compromise is the Hunter, as equipped. The step up is considerable and, altho a great size for singlehanding, a lot more effort. You will be inclined to sail the Hunter more often, I'm sure. Have fun regardless. Rick D.
The Bene will point higher and accelerate better than the Hunter. It will be more work and you'll have to watch the sounder more carefully. OTOH, the Hunter will sail more often with less depth concern. Furling mains reduce drive and (sometimes) pointing. Likewise the shoal keel, but usually in light winds. If you are out a lot by yourself, I think the better compromise is the Hunter, as equipped. The step up is considerable and, altho a great size for singlehanding, a lot more effort. You will be inclined to sail the Hunter more often, I'm sure. Have fun regardless. Rick D.
Thanks
Thanks for the advice Rick. It also looks like one additional value to owning a Hunter is active, involved owners that are willing to share their experiences! Kevin
Thanks for the advice Rick. It also looks like one additional value to owning a Hunter is active, involved owners that are willing to share their experiences! Kevin
Check the lenght of the berths...
My biggest problem with Bene's is that the berths are never long enough. On most of the newer models at least one of them is really cramped for an adult. Never noticed this problem with any of the Hunters I've looked at.
My biggest problem with Bene's is that the berths are never long enough. On most of the newer models at least one of them is really cramped for an adult. Never noticed this problem with any of the Hunters I've looked at.
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