Are there years where the design and production quality is better than others for Beneteaus? Especially in the 38-40 foot boats? We were looking at a new one and one of the cabinet handles came off in my hand.
Best Years for Beneteaus
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The Modern Bene
My 1990 390 is built a hell of a lot better than the new Beneteaus. It is a sad fact of life that all new production boats today are designed by computers to be of minimal ruggedness. If you want a strong, rugged boat you almost have to go to a semi-custom builder. The emphasis seems now to be on features that appeal to decision-making admirals such as nice upholstery, spacious galleys, microwaves and weird European untra-design. Not for me. That cabinet handle was designed by a computer to be absolutely minimal. Volume of sales is more important than quality. The quality ran out about 2002. Peter
My 1990 390 is built a hell of a lot better than the new Beneteaus. It is a sad fact of life that all new production boats today are designed by computers to be of minimal ruggedness. If you want a strong, rugged boat you almost have to go to a semi-custom builder. The emphasis seems now to be on features that appeal to decision-making admirals such as nice upholstery, spacious galleys, microwaves and weird European untra-design. Not for me. That cabinet handle was designed by a computer to be absolutely minimal. Volume of sales is more important than quality. The quality ran out about 2002. Peter
Was it a boat show?
Were you at a boat show? If so don't blame it on the boat. Boats at shows go through a tremendous amount of abuse. People just don't seem to have any respect, fail to control their children and generally push, pull and wrack havoc on the boat. We've owned a 1987, a 1991 and now a 2002 and in my opinion the build quality has remained consistent. Additionally we help move boats to and from a show getting a very good idea of what the new models are like. All in all I think they do a good job of building boats and I wouldn't hesitate to buy a new one, especially the "46".
Were you at a boat show? If so don't blame it on the boat. Boats at shows go through a tremendous amount of abuse. People just don't seem to have any respect, fail to control their children and generally push, pull and wrack havoc on the boat. We've owned a 1987, a 1991 and now a 2002 and in my opinion the build quality has remained consistent. Additionally we help move boats to and from a show getting a very good idea of what the new models are like. All in all I think they do a good job of building boats and I wouldn't hesitate to buy a new one, especially the "46".
No, not a boat show
It was at the local Beneteau dealer and the boat was in the water, ready to be sold.
It was at the local Beneteau dealer and the boat was in the water, ready to be sold.
new v. old
I've seen older Beneteaus built in France that were built like battle ships. I think the European standards are much tougher than American. No handle should have come off no matter how many children pulled on it. My '94 seems pretty rugged, but the newer ones are much thinner in their scantlings, fasteners, toerails, everything.
I've seen older Beneteaus built in France that were built like battle ships. I think the European standards are much tougher than American. No handle should have come off no matter how many children pulled on it. My '94 seems pretty rugged, but the newer ones are much thinner in their scantlings, fasteners, toerails, everything.
Questionable prep
I'd question the dealers prep process if the boat was supposed to be in "ready to go" condition. For what it's worth I've seen the more expensive brands with similiar problems. Latches that wouldn't open, doors that stick, etc. The standard answer is "we'll fix that before delivery". Unfortunately the boating industry is well behind what we get from the automobile mfgs. They seem more content to get it roughly right then correct what they notice or you complain about. When we bought our B361 new in 02 the dealer had a guy that went over the entire boat with a fine tooth comb. He pointed out a couple of issues we wouldn't have noticed and then had them fixed ASAP. Of course it's not just the dealers that are at fault. The builders need to add a bit more quality control to prevent problems in the first place. I still believe Beneteau does a good job of building boats. They use hardware from all the major suppliers, have a stringent quality control process for their hull materials and use the latest in build techniques. Probably the best thing to do is to go compare some of the older models versus new. Check the hardware, stanchions, fiberglass finish, etc. and see for yourself what the differences may be. I can tell you that the newer models will tend to provide more creature comforts. Look at the galley, heads, sail rig and see the changes made to make life more pleasant on board. Decide for yourself which is best. Good luck!
I'd question the dealers prep process if the boat was supposed to be in "ready to go" condition. For what it's worth I've seen the more expensive brands with similiar problems. Latches that wouldn't open, doors that stick, etc. The standard answer is "we'll fix that before delivery". Unfortunately the boating industry is well behind what we get from the automobile mfgs. They seem more content to get it roughly right then correct what they notice or you complain about. When we bought our B361 new in 02 the dealer had a guy that went over the entire boat with a fine tooth comb. He pointed out a couple of issues we wouldn't have noticed and then had them fixed ASAP. Of course it's not just the dealers that are at fault. The builders need to add a bit more quality control to prevent problems in the first place. I still believe Beneteau does a good job of building boats. They use hardware from all the major suppliers, have a stringent quality control process for their hull materials and use the latest in build techniques. Probably the best thing to do is to go compare some of the older models versus new. Check the hardware, stanchions, fiberglass finish, etc. and see for yourself what the differences may be. I can tell you that the newer models will tend to provide more creature comforts. Look at the galley, heads, sail rig and see the changes made to make life more pleasant on board. Decide for yourself which is best. Good luck!
I know what you are thinking
Jason, The handle coming off in your hand is like seeing a dried noodle on the tray table of an airliner. What I mean to say is that a door handle coming off is not the keep coming off, just like the noodle being left behind is not like fogetting to change the oil. If you but a new boat there is a very comprehensive commissioning process that will handle all of the loose handles
If you but a used boat you will need a great survey along the same lines. Happy shopping, don't wait too long. Greg
Jason, The handle coming off in your hand is like seeing a dried noodle on the tray table of an airliner. What I mean to say is that a door handle coming off is not the keep coming off, just like the noodle being left behind is not like fogetting to change the oil. If you but a new boat there is a very comprehensive commissioning process that will handle all of the loose handles
If you but a used boat you will need a great survey along the same lines. Happy shopping, don't wait too long. Gregmodern beneteaus
Modern Beneteaus not built as well as older ones (ie.1990 B390??????). Quite a statement there pal. Not quite sure what you're talking about, perhaps it has something to do with envy? I have a 2001 B361 and I MUST say that it one of the most solid boats I ever set foot on (reason I bought it). And yes, I have been on many older boats that are well built and have held together very well over time but to say that modern boats don't compare just isn't true. Today's construction methods and materials are far superior to what was used just 10 yrs ago. Every year, the boats are imporved upon, not the other way around. Also, they keep making them faster.
Modern Beneteaus not built as well as older ones (ie.1990 B390??????). Quite a statement there pal. Not quite sure what you're talking about, perhaps it has something to do with envy? I have a 2001 B361 and I MUST say that it one of the most solid boats I ever set foot on (reason I bought it). And yes, I have been on many older boats that are well built and have held together very well over time but to say that modern boats don't compare just isn't true. Today's construction methods and materials are far superior to what was used just 10 yrs ago. Every year, the boats are imporved upon, not the other way around. Also, they keep making them faster.
Good as ever
Like all production boats a lot is left for the dealer to fix up. A good dealer will have the boat in topnotch condition when the commissioning is finished. A poor dealer will not. I own a 2004 393. The punch list was a mile long but the dealer got it all done. A friend bought from a different dealer, two years later his boat still had problems that were there at the beginning. Go to a reliable dealer even if you have to go to another state. Visit the various owners' groups, there's where you'll get good honest information. As for the best years?...2004 Rick I http://groups.yahoo.com/group/beneteau393/ beneteau393 : Beneteau393 Group
Like all production boats a lot is left for the dealer to fix up. A good dealer will have the boat in topnotch condition when the commissioning is finished. A poor dealer will not. I own a 2004 393. The punch list was a mile long but the dealer got it all done. A friend bought from a different dealer, two years later his boat still had problems that were there at the beginning. Go to a reliable dealer even if you have to go to another state. Visit the various owners' groups, there's where you'll get good honest information. As for the best years?...2004
Rick I http://groups.yahoo.com/group/beneteau393/ beneteau393 : Beneteau393 GroupModern vs. antique?
I have to agree with George; newer Beneteaus are every bit as good as "older" ones. My 2002 B361 is the perfect compromise between stout and lightweight. With a baby stay and twin backstays, the rig is very strong. The weight of the boat is only 12K pounds, so she accelerates quickly and is very responsive to the helm. The rig design and weight are improved over older boats of the same length. I have chartered many "older" Beneteaus and they were great boats. That is why I wanted one of my own. I think we need to keep in mind that Beneteau has only been making fiberglass sailboats in large numbers since the 70's. The "older" boats aren't exactly antiques. I think Beneteau has done a wonderful job of continuous improvement. They have listened to the feedback of thousands of charterers. They have also "borrowed" good ideas from other manufacturers.
I have to agree with George; newer Beneteaus are every bit as good as "older" ones. My 2002 B361 is the perfect compromise between stout and lightweight. With a baby stay and twin backstays, the rig is very strong. The weight of the boat is only 12K pounds, so she accelerates quickly and is very responsive to the helm. The rig design and weight are improved over older boats of the same length. I have chartered many "older" Beneteaus and they were great boats. That is why I wanted one of my own. I think we need to keep in mind that Beneteau has only been making fiberglass sailboats in large numbers since the 70's. The "older" boats aren't exactly antiques. I think Beneteau has done a wonderful job of continuous improvement. They have listened to the feedback of thousands of charterers. They have also "borrowed" good ideas from other manufacturers.
Wait until you see ...
A cabinet handle have you concerned? I had my entire saloon table come off the base. Apparently the installer used the wrong screws (far to short, barely penetrated the table) Then there are the dumb wiring errors, plumbing the fuel system backwards, etc. On an automobile they can assemble 100,000 parts perfectly, they make thousands of them a day with refined processes, etc. On a boat, there can easily be two dozen mistakes, and the manufacturers maintain a poor feedback mechanism to measure and prevent this. ... however, there are user groups that can tell you these errors and recommended corrections. Fixing these yourself is a good starting point to getting to know your boat, as with age and salt water exposure, unlike an automobile, your going to have numerous things you will be fixing yourself.
A cabinet handle have you concerned? I had my entire saloon table come off the base. Apparently the installer used the wrong screws (far to short, barely penetrated the table) Then there are the dumb wiring errors, plumbing the fuel system backwards, etc. On an automobile they can assemble 100,000 parts perfectly, they make thousands of them a day with refined processes, etc. On a boat, there can easily be two dozen mistakes, and the manufacturers maintain a poor feedback mechanism to measure and prevent this. ... however, there are user groups that can tell you these errors and recommended corrections. Fixing these yourself is a good starting point to getting to know your boat, as with age and salt water exposure, unlike an automobile, your going to have numerous things you will be fixing yourself.
Bare Fiberglass restoration
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Bare Fiberglass restoration
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Bare Fiberglass restoration
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Bare Fiberglass restoration
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Gentlemen and Ladies I have been restoring an Idelle 11.50 for the past 4 years. It was cracked from toe rail to keel, sank, and rolled. This is a French commissioned boat. I have had to take off every item on the boat, all wood, wiring, engine, and re-finish, repair or replace everything, from toe rails to bilge pumps. I can attest to the manner of boat building that I have found in a 1989 37' Benny. First the wood sucks. I have had to re-veneer everything with real teak, and rebuild most of the cabinets. The plumbing is good. The old electrical panels were lousy and had to be replaced, as did all the 110v outlets but the wiring was very good, even a little over kill as far as Gage. I was able to re-use most. The chain plates are excellent. The 'glass was adequate, not "tank like", but I feel safe. All in all It was built about the same as a Hunter, Islander or a Pearson, but not close to the quality and craftsmanship you can find in a Hinkley.
Beneteau or "Bend In Two"
My 1996 36' Beneteau was not solid. The decks has some serious flex/bounce which caused cracking. When the boat was in the cradle for the winter there was some cracking below the floor boards all along the fiberglass support pan. I may have had a lemon...
My 1996 36' Beneteau was not solid. The decks has some serious flex/bounce which caused cracking. When the boat was in the cradle for the winter there was some cracking below the floor boards all along the fiberglass support pan. I may have had a lemon...
Beneteau or "Bend In Two"
My 1996 36' Beneteau was not solid. The decks has some serious flex/bounce which caused cracking. When the boat was in the cradle for the winter there was some cracking below the floor boards all along the fiberglass support pan. I may have had a lemon...
My 1996 36' Beneteau was not solid. The decks has some serious flex/bounce which caused cracking. When the boat was in the cradle for the winter there was some cracking below the floor boards all along the fiberglass support pan. I may have had a lemon...
As solid as any boat
I have ever sailed aboard. I have a 2005 Beneteau 393 and have not had any problems with the boat whatever. I have had only one warranty claim and that was a perceived weakness in the deck adjacent to the aft head. The dealer gave me a gun with a two part epoxy that mixed itself and I fixed the problem myself in a few minutes. Some epoxy and a screw and we were back in business. I have no clue as to the source of derogitory statements about Beneteaus, but they have no basis in my experience. Jim
I have ever sailed aboard. I have a 2005 Beneteau 393 and have not had any problems with the boat whatever. I have had only one warranty claim and that was a perceived weakness in the deck adjacent to the aft head. The dealer gave me a gun with a two part epoxy that mixed itself and I fixed the problem myself in a few minutes. Some epoxy and a screw and we were back in business. I have no clue as to the source of derogitory statements about Beneteaus, but they have no basis in my experience. Jim
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