Beneteau vs. Catalina

[Steven Broad]

I am trying to decide between a Beneteau and a Catalina both about 38 feet. We are mechanically challenged and need a boat that will require as little work (excluding teak as possible). Dealer for the Beneteau is Willis Marine; the dealer for the Catalina is Cooney's both are located in Huntington, Long Island. I did own a Catalina 34 built in 1989 and had problems with voids and stress cracks. Recommendations would be greatly appreciated as I am supposed to confirm my 2001 order tomorrow. Thanks all in advance !!!

 

[Gary Jensen]

Equipping your Catalina

Steve , I already emailed you my opinion of the two boats. If you order the Catalina 380, let me know and I will go over how mine is equipped. Again, I am very happy with mine!!! sail1752@aol.com (Gary)

 

[Doug Craig]

I was debating between purchasing a Beneteau 37 and a Catalina 36 last winter. The feature that concerned me about the Benateau was it's iron keel. A friend of mine had an iron keel (from a different French manufacturer) that was a nightmare. When they get the rust bug, you better be proficient at grinding--AAARGH! Go with the lead on a Catalina. I'm very happy with mine.

 

[Sam Sevier]

Decision

Steven, I don't have time to give you all the reasons, but I've owned both brands. I had a Catalina 30, then a Beneteau 38, and now a Catalina 400. Go with the Catalina, the longer you own it the happier you will be that you didn't get the Beneteau. Sam

 

[Bruce Croaning]

380 Boat of choice

Was at Cooney's yesterday and saw that they still have C380 hull #292 on their lot. I looked at both boats you are considering, at the same dealers also, and opted for the Catalina 380 since it was a much heavier boat in all aspects. The only exposed wood on the C380 are the hatch boards, and they are very well protected if you opt for the dodger. If you go with the Catalina 380, we have a new fleet 2 of owners.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

Which do you like more?

It's a very personal decision but I like the looks of Catalinas better. They "feel" better to me. I've said this a number of times & I'll say it again: Choose the one you like best. If you're ordering new, obviously there will be some sort of warranty coverage so you won't have to worry about repairs too often. That said, you really should learn how to do some basic repairs on your own. There's nothing worse than having a simple problem & having to pay and arm & a leg to get towed in for repairs that could have been done by you in a very short time.LaDonna