Beneteau 361 - please help

[Phil]

Hello,
I am considering the purchase of a Beneteau Oceanis 361 Clipper (French built), 2002 model, deep keel version (1,80 meters keel) and would like to hear comments about this boat. Any advices / comments that could help me such as advantages, disadvantages, things to be careful about specific model, performance, comfort, boat handling ability in rough weather, etc are appreciated.
Thanks

PS: Please be objective!!

 

[Mike - Papillon]

Go for it

We have a US version 2002 and love it. She sails best on a broad reach, takes a bit more attention to sail trim to get her to point or run well. Much of that is due to the roller furling main which has little power. She comes alive in winds at 10kts or greater. No need to reef until the wind begins to gust over 20kts. She'll typically run 7kts at 2800 RPMs under power. Rough water, 5 to 6 ft chop is no problem. I single hand ours a couple of times a year easily. I do wish the traveler was easier to adjust. The end cleats do not release easily when under load. She has a roomy cockpit which makes moving about while trimming nice. She'll track straight under both power or sail.

Below decks she's roomy. The best feature is the seperate shower in the head. Makes for little clean up after a shower. The aft cabin is large with good ventilation. The galley has a lot of storage, room for a microwave, double sinks, good counter space. The table drops to make a double berth. Just a very comfortable cabin.

Engine access is tight but so far I've been able to do all the maintainence. It can be difficult to reach some components which takes extra time.

When there's a bit of a breeze she sails at anchor more than I'd like to see, but it's nothing that's ever caused a problem. A riding sail would solve that problem.

We've taken trips as long as 2 weeks on her and she's quite comfortable. The 361 in my opinion is an all around very nice boat that seems larger than it is. I have nothing but praise for her. The only reason we would sell her is to move up to something larger for living aboard for extended periods of time.

Check the boat reviews on this site for more opinions. Let me know what questions you have. Be patient for an answer as we'll be at the boat for the weekend.
Mike

 

[Rabbit]

Beneteau 361

Check the keel bolts, backing plates, and nuts to INSURE they are 304SS.
This is an important issue if you have water in the bilge. Check them with a small magnet. Other wise good boat, very roomy!

 

[Rob]

Chartered the US version in Pacific Northwest

Good boat, I have a 1998 Oceanis 352 and would love to trade up to the 361. Try chartering one if you can it's a great way to get a feel for the boat.

 

[agaliha]

Another recommendation

I also have a 2002 US model 361 (made in Charleston, S.C.) I can't say enough nice things about this boat. Mike covered the sailing properties very well. On the rare occasions where the wind is over 20 knots, I rig a "GaleSail" over the furling genoa and put one reef in the main. She sails beautifully rigged like this, much better than she did with the genoa partially furled. She also carries a spinnaker beautifully. Mine is a classic (normal) main with a "stack pack" and I love it.

Under power, she has SIGNIFICANT prop walk in reverse until you have way on. This is typical of all flat bottomed boats with fin keels. My 3 cylinder Yanmar pushes her at 6.5 knots without laboring.

Negatives that I have found are minor little things. The light switch for the cabin light in the V-berth is behind the door. The toilet paper holder under the sink in the head is too narrow so the roll won't spin therefore breaking off paper. The floor boards make noise when you walk on them unless you install felt dots on the corners. The original cushions in the berths were not comfortable until I installed better foam (as in all production boats). The icebox drains into the refrigerator.

These boats are well made and a very good value. They are quick and point well. They are also comfortable for cruising. I'd buy her again if I were in the market.

Agaliha

 

[George P]

B361

Great boat! Not sure about benefit of deep draft keel. We club race our 2001, SC built 361 and she'l point higher than all except the racers. Even so, I'm sure I could keep up if I had new racing sails. Surprisingly the boat will point better with water tanks full in heavier weather with considerabley less banging...just acts and sails like a bigger boat when heavier in bigger seas...found this out on a recent trip to the bahamas when the crossing got uncomfortable.
For a 36 ft boat she's as good a boat as any....just sail here heavy in rough stuff and you'll be more comfortable. We regularly achieve 8knts boat speed on beam reaches when there's enough wind.
Hope this helps
Georeg P

 

[George P]

B361

One more note, they are solid with no creeking what so ever, these boats are strong. Can take a lot of punishment..more than you think.
George P

 

[Honu]

361 Comments

I have a US built 2001 361 with a 5.5ft keel. Bought it new and love it. My comments reinforce earlier posts. Sails well, and easily (I singlehand often). Traveller isn't convenient and doesn't release easily. But the furling main doesn't provide as large percentafge of the power, so I find little need to adjust traveller. 140 genoa can overpower quickly when pointing above 20 kts... but it's sure gratifying. When off the wind the boat sails quickly and easily on jib-alone. a nice feature when single-handing. Genoa winches are large enough for the task, easy to operate, and convenient to the helm. High quality Lewmar equipment.
We use the boat primarily for cruising in the Northwest. Most valuable additions for that purpose have been radar, nav computer/GPS, Link 10 battery monitor system, and additional 130ft of 3/8in chain to the rode (which does not seem to impact trim).
Under power, the 27hp Westerbeke can run you over 7kts with a clean bottom. It does walk when initially backing... but I find this predictable and useful in many circumstances. As with most Beneteaus, once there is sternway, it backs with impeccable manners (Hunter owners shake their haeds in dismay).
Belowdecks the boat is remarkably roomy for a 36. Lots of storage cubbys, a generous galley, and a sweet forward facing nav station. Sure, floorboards need felt pad cushioning, and factory "matresses and cushions" are a bit hard. But those are minor annoyances, easily fixable, in a production boat.
Bottom line: I'd do it all over again. With this particular model Beneteau hit a home run (not true of all their offerings). I've looked at trading up, but have yet to find anything with as much value. I'm staying put!

 

[Honu]

361 comments. P.S.

Further note: I agree with Mike - Papillon. She will tend to sail around at anchor. Not a safety problem, just annoying. Adding more chain to the rode didn't cure it. I'll try a riding sail.

 

[Paul Ouellette]

The best 36ft'er you'll find...

Hi Phil :

Welcome to the 361 glee club !! Our 2001 B361 is a very sweet boat & like all the othere folks who've posted messages, we've never regretted having her in the family...you'll be just fine owning one of these.

I'd also go so far as saying that the subsequent models offerred by Beneteau are not as desirable as the 361 is, due to her excellent layout.

That said, even pretty girls have have their minor issues & the 361 is no exception...

The boat will list to port as it is balanced to have the water tanks full...to correct this take a canvas bag (like they give out at the B'owner's rallies...) & fill it with a healthy lot of chain & place this under the stbd cabin seat...having a second rode is good idea anyway.

As mentioned, engine axcess is tight, as is getting around the ship's wheel & (thankfully) the Admiral will not want the skipper in the galley when she's there...don't worry about that last one, as the port seatee is a perfect place to streach out & monitor her activities !!

Care should be taken when stepping on the stern seat when it's in the down position...as I've seen them crack due to abuse (not our case, thankfully)

You'll likely need to re-line the fridge door with a better plastic gasket...get in touch with Ward Richardson at Beneteau who will send this to you.

Care should be taken with the anchor locker lid...as it's heavy enough to cause some "concerns" in the event that you decide to stop it's sudden closing in a gust of wind with your foot !!! Set up a small line on the port stainless rail to hold the lid up as nessessary as toenail removal was not something the 361 was ever intended for.

You will love the wide decks, the large head, the way she sails & the (2 cabin...right??) large aft berth...we've rigged a fold down TV (as in mini-vans) in the aft cabin & just love curling up for the night in there...it's very cosy.

About the aft berth...do yourself a favour & replace the foam cushion with a proper foam mattress...your back will thank you.

The galley is amazing & can be easily expanded by installing dish racks on the aft bulkhead for dishes & cups (as we've done) since getting such things out of the cupboards increases storage considerably.

Stress cracks will happen...& as above, a call to Ward at Beneteau will have some gel-coat sent to you to do the repairs, which any fiberglass specialist can do for you. DON'T try to match the color yourself...you won't get it right !!! B has changed the recepit for the gel over time & you have to tell them what boat you have to get the color to match.

On that point (& others) Beneteau has been great about things & you won't find better people to help you with "stuff" than Ward Richardson & the staff there.

As far as other reccommendations based on what we've done...(it's a huge list...)

Install a "stainless hatch guard" around the forward hatch (another call to Ward...)as there are no hand holds fwd of the cabin top...get a THREE BLADE folding prop (we have a Flex-a-fold) as a two blade will shake the boat !!

Get a second propane tank (as running out will cause your Admiral to "register her disappointment" !!!) & cut the f'glass tab that holds the propane locker lid down...a stainless catch like on the stbd side needs to be installed there (call Ward for that too).

There are a bunch of other minor bits, however, I'll cut this off here with the final thought that the toilet paper should be rolling off over the top rather than from underneith.

Cheers, P.
www.winpipe.ca

 

[agaliha]

Toilet paper crisis! *yks

Paul,
Great review of the 361! I'm curious about your last line. I've tried both directions on the toilet paper and the roll still binds thus requiring you to use two hands (one to pull the end and one to turn the roll) to get a length of paper without it breaking. It's just a minor little annoyance. Anyone got a solution? Both the Admiral and I would like to know.
Agaliha

 

[Syversens]

out 99 does not have this problem

our 361 does not not have this problem, perhaps the previous owner replaced it... ours is also built in France so perhaps they have different hardware, its a loose hook with a plastic cover behind it. System tested with the finest single ply Costco paper and it rolls off evenly with little friction.

 

[Paul Ouellette]

The Chatanooga Poo Poo... (Sorry...I couldn't resist !!!)

Agaliha :

There is a "big sign" over our Jabsco that reads...

"To avoid being flogged, keel hauled or made to walk the plank...all bums aboard are to observe the Admiral's orders...that the only things allowed into the head are those that have been eaten first...toilet paper, etc is to be put into the trash bag provided...consider yourself warned" !!!

I suppose we have "no issue with tissue" because we always use regular TP rather than the el'crud-o 1ply sandpaper that can be put down the leiu...we have never put TP down the head, for obvious reasons.

Guests are MADE to read our "ships articles" (see the website) if they are going to be aboard for any length of time & EVERYONE must pass the "toilet Training" course taught by the Admiral before they are allowed to go a'head.

Cheers, P.
www.winpipe.ca

 

[Syversens]

yikes

I heard about this but have never ever ever wanted to bring it up with significant other. We havent had any problem with clogging and frequent flushing is expected, we have a pumpout close to our docks so we stop there atleast every other weekend. Knowing my crew the best I can do it make it single ply and keep as little as possible on the roll...

 

[agaliha]

Pardon me boys

(First line of the Chattanooga Poo Poo). Maybe I didn't say it right. I have no problems with toilet paper in the head. I use marine paper and it works as designed. My problem is with the paper holder on the back of the door under the head sink. It is more narrow that the roll and this causes the roll not to roll. It is made of molded fiberglass, so there isn't much way to modify it. Anyone got any solutions?

 

[Syversens]

my take on 361

Hey Phil, didnt mean to turn your post into a debate on toilet paper but if thats one of the negatives it speaks volumes of the issues on the boat. I'm by no means an expert and the 361 was our first boat and we learned everything we know on it. I race mine thru winter and cruise summers and it does both very well, not saying the placement in racing is top but I sail with a novice crew every time and wind from 1 to 20 knots it always handles easy for short handed crew. We have a furling main and love it, had some issues but know the system well now and wouldn't be without it (unless we had a selftacking jib ).

We have a cruising spinnaker and use it often, its a great addition when the wind dies or going downwind... I fly it myself and now that I have a pole I can do wing on wing without using my third and last boat hook.

Its been the perfect size for our family (3) but when we cruised with another couple the quarters are a bit tight for privacy in the morning and evenings... Its great fun and lots of room to entertain both outside and in. We recommend the boat and second every comment but the toiletpaper hanger, perhaps the french built ones upgraded the amenities for the head.

 

[Stan]

I love it but it's for sale

I'll add my endorsement of the Beneteau 361. We bought
our 2002 Beneteau 361 new and have enjoyed every minute
with the boat. It's a great size for single handling when
necessary, and very comfortable with two couples for a week
of adventure.

I've looked at many similar size boats in the past few years and
still feel this is one of the best designs and best sailing.

We're trying to sell the boat :>( and I'm sure I'll be in tears
when it finally goes.

You'll be happy if you buy a 361.

 

[beneteau361guy]

Interior Foam Cushions

Interior Foam Cushons

I also have a 2002 US model 361 (made in Charleston, S.C.) I can't say enough nice things about this boat. Mike covered the sailing properties very well. On the rare occasions where the wind is over 20 knots, I rig a "GaleSail" over the furling genoa and put one reef in the main. She sails beautifully rigged like this, much better than she did with the genoa partially furled. She also carries a spinnaker beautifully. Mine is a classic (normal) main with a "stack pack" and I love it.

Under power, she has SIGNIFICANT prop walk in reverse until you have way on. This is typical of all flat bottomed boats with fin keels. My 3 cylinder Yanmar pushes her at 6.5 knots without laboring.

Negatives that I have found are minor little things. The light switch for the cabin light in the V-berth is behind the door. The toilet paper holder under the sink in the head is too narrow so the roll won't spin therefore breaking off paper. The floor boards make noise when you walk on them unless you install felt dots on the corners. The original cushions in the berths were not comfortable until I installed better foam (as in all production boats). The icebox drains into the refrigerator.

These boats are well made and a very good value. They are quick and point well. They are also comfortable for cruising. I'd buy her again if I were in the market.

Agaliha

 

[beneteau361guy]

Interior Foam Cushions

Hi Agaliha:

I also have a Beneteau 361 and am interested in replacing the foam cushions.

Where did you get yours?

I also have a 2002 US model 361 (made in Charleston, S.C.) I can't say enough nice things about this boat. Mike covered the sailing properties very well. On the rare occasions where the wind is over 20 knots, I rig a "GaleSail" over the furling genoa and put one reef in the main. She sails beautifully rigged like this, much better than she did with the genoa partially furled. She also carries a spinnaker beautifully. Mine is a classic (normal) main with a "stack pack" and I love it.

Under power, she has SIGNIFICANT prop walk in reverse until you have way on. This is typical of all flat bottomed boats with fin keels. My 3 cylinder Yanmar pushes her at 6.5 knots without laboring.

Negatives that I have found are minor little things. The light switch for the cabin light in the V-berth is behind the door. The toilet paper holder under the sink in the head is too narrow so the roll won't spin therefore breaking off paper. The floor boards make noise when you walk on them unless you install felt dots on the corners. The original cushions in the berths were not comfortable until I installed better foam (as in all production boats). The icebox drains into the refrigerator.

These boats are well made and a very good value. They are quick and point well. They are also comfortable for cruising. I'd buy her again if I were in the market.

Agaliha