380 with Arch
Normally I agree with Bob Knott, but I guess I represent the minority in this case. I think the fibreglass arch on the 380 is just about perfect. I've been wanting an arch for a number of years--even to designing one for another boat I had at the time.The 380 is a perfect boat for the two of us in the Pacific Northwest. With the arch, we have a bimini that is one of the best in the harbor. We also have a dodger and around here a dodger is a necessity in my opinion. We've been on a 380 with the stainless arch and think that the placement makes it harder for my wife to stand on the seats (bumps her head) but that is not a big deal. The lights and the placement of the traveler controls on the plastic arch is perfect for the helmsman.In summary, it is a good design--I think the fibreglass and the stainless is a smart move in sailboat design. However, I'm a futurest, not very traditional in my thinking.By the way, I think the 380 is a well designed mid-size cruiser that sails well.