Beneteau361Information required

[John W]

I have been trying to find the "perfect" 36 foot boat.I have seen all the new boat offerings available in Canada and the Beneteau 361 has many of the visable creature comfort features we are looking for,however there are a couple of questions that I think can best be answered by owners of the 361.How does the boat perform it terms of;Light air speed{8-12 knots}.Compaired to say the Catlina 36MKII.Does anybody race one and if so at what perf rating?Heavey weather performance? After 2years on lake Ontario we plan on a cruise to the BVIs and on South.The hull to deck joint method of self tapping screws and adhesive troubles me, being used to the proven and traditional 3/16 bolts on 4in centers type of construction.I look forward to any info you would care to pass on.John  E mail.svariel@aol.com

 

[Gary]

Beneteau 361 information required

I purchased a 361 last year, trading up from a Catalina 30. I made an extensive search of 35-36 foot boats and narrowed my choice to Beneteau and Catalina. Since I was pleased with my Catalina 30, I looked at the 36MKII very carefully. I chose the Beneteau for a variety of reasons. I loved the creature comforts. This is a very comfortable, livable boat. The cockpit is spacious and well designed. The seats are comfortable and the helmsman can work the jib sheet winches. You can get upsized winches, which i would do. I would also opt for he classic main.I believe the PHRF ratings are practically identical to the C-36. I was concerned about the hull to deck joint, but Practical sailor has evaluated many B's and seems to find this OK. Note also the many charter companies which use B's. I have had no leaks at all, anywhere. This is a dry boat.As for heavy weather, I've have sailed in20-25knts apparent without reefing. The boat is steady,tracks very well; not affected by gusts and does not round up (My C-30 rounded up in gusts--very annoying)As for blue water offshore, I'm not sure I'd do that in either boat without substantial modification. The B cockpit is open at the end so It will drain rapidly, which is a plus offshore.Good luck in your choice.

 

[Dave]

Did you consider Hunter 356?

I am also looking at 361 Beneteau, 36 mkCatalina, and Hunter 356. Why did you choose Ben over the others?