I would like to hear from some Beneteau owners (and others) on pros and cons of the 423 vs 473.
Our search for new boat will now start in earnest.
Some background and intended use (to keep SD of my back
)
Intended use: Chesapeake Bay and future extended cruise to Bahamas via ICW.
Looking to buy in between now and, if we can find the right boat, May 2008.
We will buy used not new.
Budget: no set limit but around or below 250K would be good.
Boats we are considering are:
Beneteau 423 or maybe 473 (2 cabin versions)
We also like: Catalina 400 (or maybe 470), Tartan 3700 or 4100, Sabre 402, Passport 40 etc.
My thoughts on 423 vs 473
423:
+ Same money will buy me a newer boat.
+ Shoal draft option 49 available (positive for Chessie, ICW and Bahamas)
- A lot of them come with Volvo engine (service network?)
473:
+ 2 cabin version has nice garage on port side behind galley
+ 2 steering wheels (undecided whether this is a positive)
+ Plenty of room for generator.
- Shoalest draft is 57
- Bloody big boat docking how much harder to dock a 47 with thruster than a 40-42 without thruster
Is the 473 worth the extra money?