Beneteau 50 Oceanis modifications

[Celestial Storm]

Hello All

Does anyone have experience or knowledge with modifying a Beneteau 50 4 cabin to a 3 cabin layout by removing the divider between the two bow cabins. Is this divider a structural component or can it be removed without damaging the boat integrity. It appears that it can, but when I contacted Beneteau, their response was “impossible”. I have worked closely with some French manufacturers before and this seems to be their standard response when they don’t want to do something.


Thanks for your feedback and comments.


Steve

[tankersteve]

I too am interested in this possibility. I am looking to buy a cruiser for a 2-year tour in the Caribbean, and this boat has been mentioned as a good option, and readily available from a charter company.

Hopefully some folks chime in with some good ideas.

Tankersteve

[Garrettw]

I don't know if it is like my Jeanneau but, for me, the slot in the cabin roof to accept the divider is there no matter what version you buy.

[deluxe68]

You may want to check with the designer. What year is the boat? Did Beneteau offer a single cabin up front for that model?

[neilpride]

Forget the idea because is structural, i refit a 50 last season , the divider strenght the bow section and allow the deck to rest in a solid bulkhead, to take it apart you need to destroy it and with the risk of hull and deck flexing, and the bene is not know to be very solid in that matter, also it strenght all the surrounding mast deck collar area.. is up to you....

[Celestial Storm]

Thanks for the feedback. The best option may be to sell the 4 cabin and just buy a 3 cabin. If it becomes a big structural issue it isn't worth the agony

Steve

[sabray]

The 50 came with and with out the divider. Check with bene but it doesn't make sense that it's needed. Unless they are changing the structure.

[FLLCatsailor]

Originally Posted by sabray

The 50 came with and with out the divider. Check with bene but it doesn't make sense that it's needed. Unless they are changing the structure.

When I worked for The Moorings they had it setup where at phaseout an owner could have his boat converted at a reduced cost.