I am considering buying a new 49 and would like any input from anyone who has either sen one or actually bought one. luis.fabre@rgepr.com
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New Bene Ugh!!
This may elicit a firestorm from viewers. In June just past, I was on board one of the new models. In my opinion, after 1998, all new Beneteau models have been progressively designed more and more by computers. And the interiors by wacky Italian designers who have no sense of nautical tradition. All fittings now seem to be the very lightest they can be and would not stand up to any kind of heavy treatment. All the major volume production boat-builders seem on the same path in an effort to sell more boats than the others. You get what you pay for is still the rule. Peter
This may elicit a firestorm from viewers. In June just past, I was on board one of the new models. In my opinion, after 1998, all new Beneteau models have been progressively designed more and more by computers. And the interiors by wacky Italian designers who have no sense of nautical tradition. All fittings now seem to be the very lightest they can be and would not stand up to any kind of heavy treatment. All the major volume production boat-builders seem on the same path in an effort to sell more boats than the others. You get what you pay for is still the rule. Peter
Nice boat
The 49 is a very nice boat. Lot's of storage in the galley, very comfortable cabin, roomy cockpit and is well equiped. It does have a very European style to it and you have to love it or leave it. It certainly is a departure from the more traditional look Beneteau has had over the years. I haven't had the opportunity to sail one but the hull looks like a take off of some of the more modern racers, twin helms, flush bow, flat bottom, etc. No doubt you'll get varying opinions on it, so check it out for yourself and decide if you like it.
The 49 is a very nice boat. Lot's of storage in the galley, very comfortable cabin, roomy cockpit and is well equiped. It does have a very European style to it and you have to love it or leave it. It certainly is a departure from the more traditional look Beneteau has had over the years. I haven't had the opportunity to sail one but the hull looks like a take off of some of the more modern racers, twin helms, flush bow, flat bottom, etc. No doubt you'll get varying opinions on it, so check it out for yourself and decide if you like it.
Beneteau 49
Can't agree with Pete. The new Bene's are a break with tradition but for the good. The new Oceanis 50/Beneteau 49 is just what the modern sailor wants in a sailboat... no camping, good performance. Ask your dealer about the tall performance rig option, people I have talked rave about it. This is a new design since 2006... so it going through a bit of a geniuses. Beneteau has changed out the wood floor boards for a new formica laminate and has made several minor improvements to the earlier versions. I personally think the boats a winner... by the way so does Cruising World, Sail, Blue Water Sailing, Yacht to name a few. IMHO
Can't agree with Pete. The new Bene's are a break with tradition but for the good. The new Oceanis 50/Beneteau 49 is just what the modern sailor wants in a sailboat... no camping, good performance. Ask your dealer about the tall performance rig option, people I have talked rave about it. This is a new design since 2006... so it going through a bit of a geniuses. Beneteau has changed out the wood floor boards for a new formica laminate and has made several minor improvements to the earlier versions. I personally think the boats a winner... by the way so does Cruising World, Sail, Blue Water Sailing, Yacht to name a few. IMHO
Beneteau 473
Consider the Beneteau 473 that has a longer waterline than the 49 and is probably the best Beneteau ever produced (my opinion). It has traditional wood interior and finish and is a good deal less expensive. The cost of fiberglass has increased significantly but the hull shape has actually been reduced. Compare the specs of the boats abovementioned and you will see what I mean. No doubt the 49 is an excellent boat, although less traditional looking that the 473 and probably a bit slower due to a shorter waterline. Overall, both are great choices. Best regards,
Consider the Beneteau 473 that has a longer waterline than the 49 and is probably the best Beneteau ever produced (my opinion). It has traditional wood interior and finish and is a good deal less expensive. The cost of fiberglass has increased significantly but the hull shape has actually been reduced. Compare the specs of the boats abovementioned and you will see what I mean. No doubt the 49 is an excellent boat, although less traditional looking that the 473 and probably a bit slower due to a shorter waterline. Overall, both are great choices. Best regards,
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