2001 Beneteau 473 or 1984 Norseman 447

[dlongendyke]

Both in great condition (the 473 is slightly better equipped) both around 200K ish. We will be sailing costal around the NE for the next 4 years then retire and head for the Carribean. Which would be the better choice?

[Giulietta]

Dlong,

That's like asking a 2001 Ford Taurus or a 1984 Range Rover...

The Benetau is newer, and you get a bigger boat, more plastic, faster sail, more space and less expenditure to keep up. The Norseman, is a very well built boat, slower, smaller and better finished...

If you're going to sail coastal then lie around in the caribbean, I'd go for the Benetau, and get more space.

[camaraderie]

For your plans the Beneteau is the better choice.

[JohnRPollard]

Based on the minimum info you've provided, and even though I don't particularly care for the in-mast mainsail furler, I'd also suggest the Beneteau. Expect more depreciation, though.

[chucklesR]

Just to be contrary - Norseman.
If you are going to live aboard it's a 'cruiser', Bene's a racer/cruiser (mind trhat draft too, the Norseman I googled was a shoal draft which is handy in the Carib. 44 Norseman has plenty of room for a cruising couple, the extra is just that, extra Besides, on the Norseman the depreciation and upgrading is done.

[kwaltersmi]

How many people will be living/cruising aboard? The Bene has more room and will probably fit your needs better if you have more than 1 person other than yourself. If you have kids, I'd recommend the Bene because of the 3 staterooms.

I personally would go with the Norseman simply because I like the more classic looks and the build quality.

[Giulietta]

Originally Posted by chucklesR

Just to be contrary - Norseman.
If you are going to live aboard it's a 'cruiser', Bene's a racer/cruiser (mind trhat draft too, the Norseman I googled was a shoal draft which is handy in the Carib. 44 Norseman has plenty of room for a cruising couple, the extra is just that, extra Besides, on the Norseman the depreciation and upgrading is done.

dlongendyke,

Ignore Chuckles...the man sails a Cat...A CAT!!!!!!!!!! what the hell does he know about sailboats????

Next thing SD will come here and say something too

[camaraderie]

Delong...if that Bene has the 6'11" draft...I reverse my opinion. Get the Norseman. If it is shoal draft (6' or less) then stick with the Bene.

[Giulietta]

Originally Posted by camaraderie

Delong...if that Bene has the 6'11" draft...I reverse my opinion. Get the Norseman. If it is shoal draft (6' or less) then stick with the Bene.

"Switcher hitter" or whatever you call them....

[kwaltersmi]

Gui, are you trying to say Cam "goes" both ways?