Model differences

[dgasmd]

First of, I would like to ask you that you forgive my lack of knowledge here. I am just getting started in the "sailing world". As I start to look at boats, I have come to be very interested in the Beneteau line as a potential buy in the future. I would like to eventually get something that is roomy enough (38-45 ft) for a family of 4 and 2-4 more guests. I don't plan on doing any transatlantic passages or anything of that sort. I live in South Florida, so mostly to be used as a weekend cruiser and the occasional Bahamas/caribbean trip 1-2/year. Given my location, A/C is a must for me to use while docked. So, here is where my question comes in:

It seems Beneteau has about 3-4 different models that are almost about the same to the untrained eye (393, new oceanis 40, 423, cyclades 43). Give or take 1-3 feet of LWL and the single vs dual wheel, could you give me a synopsis of the real differences between all of them assuming same age (2004 or newer) boat, cost, and condition? I mean something along the lines of: cyclades has less luxury but more bang for the buck vs the 423, etc. I did do a side by side table of features and specifications to compare them all, but I am sure that is a very simplistic way of looking at things, especially for someone that has no first hand knowledge and very little experience.

Thanks in advance!

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

I'm sure someone will come along and provide a direct answer to your question. My only comment is recognize that most new sailors fall into the same trap of focusing on a specific boat brand and model. Only when you start serious shopping will you see that condition, equipment and maintenance history become as or more important. This isn't car shopping. You might not want to overlook a better deal on a better equipped Hunter, Catalina, etc... because your blinders are too narrow. You will also become a more educated shopper once you look at all the competing brands.

 

[Gunni]

What Don said. All of these boats are available as charter boats. My suggestion would be to get started immediately.

1. Get yourself trained to handle a big boat - motoring, mechanical systems, sail handling, docking, anchoring, etc through one of many certification programs.
2. Start chartering a variety of boats so that you get real life experience with the features that work and those that don't. Chartering is a great way to sail more, and work less on a boat. It is invaluable to eventually getting the right boat for you. It is also a great way to build a knowledgeable crew.
3. Read up on boat systems. You need to be a mechanic, an amateur electrician, a plumber, AND a sailor. Big sailboats are an extremely complex assembly of systems. Some builders do a better job at making their boats more easily maintained. Some previously owned boats are not worth owning because the previous owner did not maintain the systems. Knowing how to spot these concerns will make the difference between a good boat experience, and a disaster.
4. Have fun. Go sailing. Don't be in a hurry to own. Date around so to speak. When you finally find her, you will know and won't be picking the one someone else told you was perfect.