Yacht upgrade?

[Marauder]

Just wondering if anybody would like to give their opinion or recommendations on a 1997 Hunter 34 versus a 1988 Beneteau Oceanis 350.

My wife and myself are looking at becoming liveaboards and need to go slightly bigger than our current 29ft yacht. Both these two boats have come for sale at the same price. Both similar condition and inventories.

Main sailing is here in Wellington and the Marlborough Sounds.

Look forward to your replies and suggestions

[s/v Jedi]

9 years difference... would still go for the Bene is survey is good. I must admit that I am no fan of Hunters. Also, a Bene First is often better than Oceanis if you want to go offshore with it. But don't get the First racer versions unless you want to race.

Important stuff to have checked out by surveyor: engine, rudder (water ingress), blisters, rigging incl. chainplates, sails. How does it smell inside... wood rot smell means trouble like leaking hatches.

cheers,
Nick.

[MarkJ]

Yeah, 9 years is a long time....