Boat Advice

mparent · #1 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009

Intend to coastal to Carribbean and then in a few years cross Atlantic and then in a few more around south america. I have a choice between a 2003 Beneteau 373 and and 89 Island Packet 38. Both roughly the same price. Which is the better boat for what I want to do?

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009

The IP is probably a better choice, if an ocean crossing is in your future.

sailortjk1 · #3 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009

I'm a Benny owner and I would not want to be offshore in a 373.
I vote IP for your future intentions and the 373 for your immediate intentions; or buy both.

night0wl · #4 (**permalink**) 07-17-2009

The 373 is a great coastal cruiser...but its a light boat and will get beat up pretty badly in Ocean situations. The IP is a heavier displacement production boat. Still has some drawbacks of coastal cruisers (big open cockpit...wide open interior) but does have storage and tankage to make longer journeys.

Try and get on each boat in less than optimal situations to see how the motion make you feel. Try before you buy! I'd also try working each boat in reverse. Those full keels on an Island Packet can make reversing an adventure.