What is a Cyclades and thoughts on 393

[PDReynolds]

Hi Everyone,
Appreciate any thoughts and opinions here, We are getting ready to purchase a boat for coastal cruising and stumbled across an attractive but basic model called the Beneteau 393- 2004 model. I did notice that some of the boats are called "Cyclades" and a sailing friend told me to stay away from the "Cyclades model" of Beneteau and not sure why or even if it pertains to this 393.

Also would like to know any experience with this boat. We are looking for comfort and coastal cruising through New England and not to win a race.

Thanks

 

[Paul Mermelstein]

The Cyclades are not really models, but a version of models. In other words, the 393 is the model, which represents boat size, layout, and design. The Cyclades are basic, usually bare-bones, no frills versions of some models that are sold to the chartering companies.

As such, they are often heavily used and/or abused. It's the use/abuse which is the reason I think they are not a great buy. While the hull is probably fine, and many other things can be replaced or repaired, often, charter boats have very high engine hours, like multiple thousands of hours. Conversely, most privately owned boats put on 50-100 engine hours a year for regional and local sailing. I don't think replacing the engine is something you would find cost effective. A heavily used charter boat, especially a basic Cyclades version, is not something I would recommend to a friend.

I have a "regular" 393, not a Cyclades. It's a terrific boat. A wonderful boat. Two cabin model, although 3 cabin models are also available, two heads, good strong Yanmar engine, very comfortable, able sailing vessel ... You get the picture. Two couples are very happy on it for a weekend or longer. My wife and I are on it for at least 2 weeks a year plus weekends. I know of several people who cruise and live on them full time.

For more information on the 393, go here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/beneteau393/

Paul

 

[PDReynolds]

Thanks Paul,
Is there a way I can differentiate the two boats by feature or this as simple as looking at a label on the boat. In other words I dont want to purchase one where as a seller is passing it off as a non-Cyclades version. I agree about problems with charter boats. I definitely dont want a Cyclades then.

 

[Paul Mermelstein]

Thanks Paul,
Is there a way I can differentiate the two boats by feature or this as simple as looking at a label on the boat. In other words I dont want to purchase one where as a seller is passing it off as a non-Cyclades version. I agree about problems with charter boats. I definitely dont want a Cyclades then.

I don't know if they are labeled as Cyclades or not. What you need to look for, on ANY boat, is the condition, age, and use. One important issue is engine hours. If it is high for her age, then that's a good hint of how she's been used. Also see where the boat was used, if possible; in the areas where chartering is common? Who was the owner; a chartering company like Moorings? Does she have basic electronics or more complete? Etc.

Just because it is NOT a Cyclades, does not mean she was not in charter. I suggest starting by looking at the 393s in Yachtworld.com and doing a comparison of what's for sale, their engine hours, features, and price. If you see something that is priced really low compared to the others, that's a hint of what you'll get.