Oceanis 37 PE

Davidasailor26 · Feb 26, 2014

I was just about to post my own question about basically the same thing, as we're also shopping around and looking to possibly upgrade to the 37 Platinum Edition. In addition to triumph's questions, I'd like to add the following:
1) The dealer says Beneteau now uses a gelcoat that resists blistering at least as well as Interlux style epoxy. As owners of a mid-80s boat this concept of waterproof gelcoat is foreign to us. Anyone have any problems with blistering on this new, less permeable gelcoat?
2) The boat spec is for a 60A alternator, but I've read that early years had an 80 amp. How well does the 60A do to make up for loads like electronics and refrigerator, say if spending a weekend at anchor with limited motor time? Anyone been compelled to upgrade?
3) We looked at a "Limited Edition" from late last year, but it didn't seem to have an ice box? Does the platinum have an ice box, separate from the refrigerator/freezer? If not, where do people keep their ice other than what fits in the small freezer?
4) We've talked to one dealer who says they would provide a 22 pound delta anchor, and another who offers a 35 pound delta. We currently have a 25 pound CQR that we'd like to hold on to. Anyone have any experience with such an anchor, or speculation on how well it would hold up in a thunderstorm?

Ron20324 · Feb 26, 2014

I'd say go with the bigger anchor. I have a 35 CQR on my B323. It's a little oversized (should be 25/30), but the excess is security.

I'd think taking the D22 for a lunch hook or overnight if you are SURE the weather does not call for more. Then trade your 25 CQR for a 35.

Jackdaw · Feb 27, 2014

Davidasailor26 said:
I was just about to post my own question about basically the same thing, as we're also shopping around and looking to possibly upgrade to the 37 Platinum Edition. In addition to triumph's questions, I'd like to add the following:
1) The dealer says Beneteau now uses a gelcoat that resists blistering at least as well as Interlux style epoxy. As owners of a mid-80s boat this concept of waterproof gelcoat is foreign to us. Anyone have any problems with blistering on this new, less permeable gelcoat?
2) The boat spec is for a 60A alternator, but I've read that early years had an 80 amp. How well does the 60A do to make up for loads like electronics and refrigerator, say if spending a weekend at anchor with limited motor time? Anyone been compelled to upgrade?
3) We looked at a "Limited Edition" from late last year, but it didn't seem to have an ice box? Does the platinum have an ice box, separate from the refrigerator/freezer? If not, where do people keep their ice other than what fits in the small freezer?
4) We've talked to one dealer who says they would provide a 22 pound delta anchor, and another who offers a 35 pound delta. We currently have a 25 pound CQR that we'd like to hold on to. Anyone have any experience with such an anchor, or speculation on how well it would hold up in a thunderstorm?

For the last 15 years or so, Beneteau has been using vinylester resin in hull construction. It is much more resistant to water penetration via osmosis than polyester resin built hulls. I have heard that Beneteau will not honor the 10 year blister warentee if a vinylester hull has been barrier coated.

We use a 25 lb Delta on our First 36.7. It's fine for us but sizing is a personal thing based on local conditions. In my opinion (based on experience and 3rd partly tests) that Lewmar's Delta is a much superior anchor to their SQR.

CCHer · Feb 27, 2014

I bought the 37 LE in the fall of '12. Re the ice box, there's the bin just to port of the refrigerator that could be used-it has a drain but probably needs to be better insulated. Like you I didn't want the microwave and asked it to be deleted. I guess the factory is a bit rigid in their construction process since they wouldn't do it. The alternator is 80 amp and all lighting is LED. I love the Simrad electronics-the PE is B&G I think-same company. The best thing though are the sailing qualities, fast and easy handling with the short headsail. Major additions I made (so far) are radar, gennaker (is that standard on the PE? just the gear supplied with the LE), folding prop and jib lead controls back to cockpit besides the stuff at commissioning like canvass and cushions. The dealer supplied a 35 lb delta, 40 ft of 3/8 chain spliced to 5/8 rode-works fine so far in moderate conditions on the Bay. If you're dealing with AYS, I found them to be very responsive to a few punch list items. Good luck.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

My 37 LE is on order. It has shoal keel and every bell and whistle I can get on it except the teak. I want to sail not refinish teak. LOL. When it arrives and before it hits the water It will be further equipped with a Spectra water maker, Kato "Voyager" Davits, An additional 50 gal fuel tank that will give me a total of 84 gallons. In addition to the listed options I also ordered a 2nd bow roller and factory installed radar. As soon as the Voyager davits are mounted I will have it measured for a Kato solar panel rack and order (2) 160 watt panels. I chose the Kato Voyager Davits because I wanted heavy duty. Each arm is good for 420 lbs. Also we will change the salt head to fresh water. I will have a 45 and 65 lbs. Mantus anchors. Once I know the gypsie size I will order HT chain or a different gypsie so I can use the chain I want.
I did a lot of research before ordering and Beneteau led the pack.
Forgot, I did not order the AC though we will be in Clear Lake TX. outside of Houston. There are a lot of cheap portable units available while at the dock. The aft port cabin (ordered two cabin version) will become my work/storage compartment. It will also have a true Dodger and not the tall windshields that get put on so many today and Bimini.
We'll be ready for some serious cruising.
Also forgot: Beneteau had a great Miami show. They got 20 orders during it. Best in years. I fortunately got my order in in front of the pack. We checked out the 38 as well because I like the open concept but between the higher price and lack of stowage chose the 37.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

You can get a 12 volt portable freezer if you desire. I may do it as well. Add a Yeti or Sail Systems cooler for passages.
Water maker will go where the AC would have been located and the 50 gal aux. tank will be located in the starboard lazzerette.

gleason99 · Feb 27, 2014

Just a thought on the extra fuel tank, the boat already leans about 2 degrees to starboard so adding 350 lbs of fuel in the lazzareete will make it lean over more at the dock. i have the Mantas 35 lb anchor and it is much better than the Delta

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

Thanks for the info. Allowing for the additional weight at starboard through turning the port cabin into a tool/stowage location. I'm figuring probably 500 lbs, in that area to offset the additional weight. I probably have about 300 lbs in tools and compressor and then adding all the spare parts and extra stowage should get me there. Heaviest items will be set against the port hull. Will also be adding tethered diving equipment and etc.
The water maker though forward will also be located port of center under a saloon bench.
When carrying the inflatable RIB I can hang the motor on the portside as well. It weighs over 100 lbs.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

The Platinum Edition comes with

ackage - Platinum edition 0413 nav pack l = simrad rs35 vhf, simrad hs35 handset, nav trifunction b&g nav pack m = chartplotter zues 8 b&g, cartography b&g us, wind system b&g, wifi module b&g autopilot b&g electric windlass quick hull window grey assymetrical spinnaker w/sock black deco kit solid surface countertop ultrasuede or ultraleather cushions gennaker gear + winch microwave

Davidasailor26 · Feb 27, 2014

Thanks all for your insight, and thanks Pilgrimtex for blazing the purchasing trail for us and sharing your knowledge.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

I'm just trying to outfit my boat to my needs and desires. The main goal is to be as self contained as possible. I also wanted a 500 NM cruising range on power if I should need it. I thought the 37 came with an 80 amp alternator but my dealer says 60; However I heard stories that it does come with an 80 amp unit. We'll see. By adding 320 watts of solar power I should be ok with a 60.
I'll be living aboard her as well.
"Sail'n Somewhere" be her name. Anyone asking for me just tell them Yeah, They're out Sail'n Somewhere.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

Heads Up! Just a reminder. Anyone thinking of a 37, remember Beneteau is pulling the plug on them this year. The 38 is its replacement so don't wait too long.

Davidasailor26 · Feb 27, 2014

Pilgrimtex said:
I'm just trying to outfit my boat to my needs and desires. The main goal is to be as self contained as possible. I also wanted a 500 NM cruising range on power if I should need it. I thought the 37 came with an 80 amp alternator but my dealer says 60; However I heard stories that it does come with an 80 amp unit. We'll see. By adding 320 watts of solar power I should be ok with a 60. I'll be living aboard her as well. "Sail'n Somewhere" be her name. Anyone asking for me just tell them Yeah, They're out Sail'n Somewhere.

We got clarification from the dealer we're talking to that although the spec sheet says 60 amps, the boat he has in stock and one he has ordered both have 80A alternators.

Pilgrimtex · Feb 27, 2014

Thanks David,
I'm keeping my fingers crossed for the 80 amp alternator. I'll also have the Dealer check his stock boat to verify. He recently received it.

Bob846 · Mar 3, 2014

Regarding the alternator, even if it's an 80, it will probably put out more like 60. Depends on the battery bank size, type, and if the regulation is smart or fixed voltage. Regarding your ultrasuede or ultra-leather cushions, think about covering them; especially if living aboard. Mine needed recovering after only 4 years of CAREFUL liveaboard use. Others are experiencing much of the same thing. The leather-like fabric is less than robust and is designed to sell the boat (IMHO). Note, my Beneteau (normal) fabric cushion covers held up much better.

Best of luck on the new toy!

vince arsenault · May 10, 2014

Looked at B38 and still feel 37 a better deal. I had trouble with the interior of the B38. Didn't feel boatie!! Love my B37>>sails in all conditions and is an all round GREAT BOAT.
Vince
B37 #101

Pilgrimtex · May 11, 2014

Thanks Vince,
My 37 will be finished the 3rd week in June. Can't wait. Just need to sell this boat anchor and get down there.

Davidasailor26 · May 11, 2014

And ours will be ready as soon as 8 days from now. Really chomping at the bit. Gone to the dealer looking at it the last 2 weekends waiting to see if it's floating yet.

We also agree on the 38. It's eye catching when you first walk in to a big bright area, but then you start to realize that some of the spaces just don't seem that efficient or practical, especially given the price point.