I've looked at the 320 and the 340. I have not, however, done any real comparison between the two (down to measuring tape and check lists.) My question is: what are the big differences, particularly with respect to space? What does the 320 lack? How much shorter is the V-berth, head area, galley? Does that extra couple of feet make enough difference to pay the extra 20K+? Any assistance would be appreciated.
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320/340
check out the "boats" section here on "how" and compare the two, the spec and layout are both there. Two feet might not sound like a lot but there is a world of difference in the boats. The real issuse is what will work for you and what you are willing to have or not have in boat size and weight
check out the "boats" section here on "how" and compare the two, the spec and layout are both there. Two feet might not sound like a lot but there is a world of difference in the boats. The real issuse is what will work for you and what you are willing to have or not have in boat size and weight
Try to find and measure the two
Before purchasing our 340, we were able to locate a dealer some 250 miles from us that had a 310 and a 340. My wife and I traveled to the dealer to view and measure the boats first hand. After getting the "feel" of the interior space, we knew we had to have the larger boat. Frankly, our game plan at one point became buying a USED 336 as opposed to the NEW 340 because of money. We felt that strongly about the additional size. While the measurments on paper are important, the "feel" of the interior volume and arrangement, to me, is the deciding factor. If you've ever been inside a dark, cramped Beneteau you'll know what I mean. Regards, Wynn Ferrel S/V Tranquility
Before purchasing our 340, we were able to locate a dealer some 250 miles from us that had a 310 and a 340. My wife and I traveled to the dealer to view and measure the boats first hand. After getting the "feel" of the interior space, we knew we had to have the larger boat. Frankly, our game plan at one point became buying a USED 336 as opposed to the NEW 340 because of money. We felt that strongly about the additional size. While the measurments on paper are important, the "feel" of the interior volume and arrangement, to me, is the deciding factor. If you've ever been inside a dark, cramped Beneteau you'll know what I mean. Regards, Wynn Ferrel S/V Tranquility
320 v 340
I traded a "dark cramped" beneteau 281 for a new 320 so from my perspective the 320 felt huge in terms of both the interior and cockpit space. I mentally measured both the 320 and 340 that were docked side by side, and yes while the 340 contained more volume and corresponding features, I did not feel that it was worth an additional 20k (for me). The 320 provides all I need and then some. Of course, if money was no object I would have bought the 450. Now that's a nice BIG boat
I traded a "dark cramped" beneteau 281 for a new 320 so from my perspective the 320 felt huge in terms of both the interior and cockpit space. I mentally measured both the 320 and 340 that were docked side by side, and yes while the 340 contained more volume and corresponding features, I did not feel that it was worth an additional 20k (for me). The 320 provides all I need and then some. Of course, if money was no object I would have bought the 450. Now that's a nice BIG boat
Just another thought
I metally measured and test sailed the 290 and it was easy for me to make the 12k stretch to the 320. However, others may not be able to justify that price gap depending upon their needs. So I think the bottomline is that we all use different "yardsticks" when it comes to measuring personal value vs. cost when it comes to sizing up a new boat. It would be a hell of a lot easier if Hunter just made 1 great boat...but they give us the daunting task of choosing among many!
I metally measured and test sailed the 290 and it was easy for me to make the 12k stretch to the 320. However, others may not be able to justify that price gap depending upon their needs. So I think the bottomline is that we all use different "yardsticks" when it comes to measuring personal value vs. cost when it comes to sizing up a new boat. It would be a hell of a lot easier if Hunter just made 1 great boat...but they give us the daunting task of choosing among many!
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