Beneteau Oceanis 430

[bill brown]

Dear Folks, my boat purchase search continues. I am currently considering a Beneteau Oceanis 430 (built 1989). My wife and I will be living on this boat. We will do some coastal sailing. I would like opinions on this boat. It has several upgrades (electronic and charging). Appears to be in good shape (I have not physically inspected her yet). Opinions welcomed. Thanks, bb

[gr8trn]

If she surveys well and is sound, sounds like a good boat for your intended purpose. I have not sailed a late 80's Oceanis 430. I am a fan of Beneteau and have owned a few and still own one. The key here is your stated purpose, coastal cruising and living aboard, this boat makes sense. Is that a port hull galley layout? Not my favorite layout...
Let me guess that it will go for between $70-$100K if in decent shape.

Greg

[bill brown]

Greg - - you are right about the pricing. Is this a relatively fast passage maker? My understanding is that it is....but, since you have a lot of experience....I would like your view. thanks, bb

[gr8trn]

Bill,
Again, haven't sailed that 430. Have sailed the 405 and typical of Beneteau she is a fast boat that needs to be sailed with attention to reefing. Light air great performance, heavy air required proper reefing and sail trim to limit weather helm and keep boat speed up. Not unlike many production range fin keep, spade rudder monohulls.
Know a couple who cruised the 405 for years up and down west coast and they feel that she was a perfect boat for the purpose.
Greg

[goboatingnow]

Friends of mine took their 430 accross the Atlantic, not a bad passage maker with a few tweaks.

dave

[bill brown]

Thanks for input - - very valuable bb

[gr8trn]

Originally Posted by bill brown

Thanks for input - - very valuable bb

no worries, happy shopping!
Greg