I know some of these comments are calling the video misleading and clickbait but this is exactly the video needed for someone like me who is learning as much as I can before getting my first boat. These are the details that I find helpful and if anyone says that 40k upfront is not a big issue, then really doesn't understand that running cost are continuos and compound. This was a concise video that was informative on the things that matter.

A lot of commenters on here whining about the title being clickbait. Yes, it is, but unfortunately that’s the way the KZfaq algorithm works. Regardless of the title, this was a well done video. Very informative. Very interesting. At the end of the day, does the title bother me? Not in the least. I walked away knowing more than I did before I watched it, and that works for me! Keep up the great work, Tim!

We bought a modestly equipped 373 (2004) in the summer of 2021. It was barely on our shortlist. We were gunning for a 423. But, everybody who boards our 373 are always impressed by the great headroom, large head and shower space, decent galley and 2 decent staterooms. This is a great boat for a sailing couple. We have stretched it to living aboard for 2 years now, 11,000+nm. And that 40k difference? Got a new and expanded battery bank, solar, brand new dinghy+20hp ob, new head, radar, 2 new fridge compressors, wind gen, portable wm. All liveabord stuff. Boat came with full enclosure (cockpit tent), fantastic sun shades, dinghy davits, upgraded comfy mattresses… so that 40k difference was significant. Experienced used boat buyers know you can easily pour 10-20% of the boat value in upgrades and add-ons. Very happy living on our boat and will for several more years. We might upgrade. If we do, we’ll go to 45-49’. Why? Space for more panels, storage,etc. Bigger boats are being sailed by couples just like us but their needs remain essentially the same. But the bigger boat can fit more panels, wm gear, storage, more comfort in big seas, much more room for guests. And boat prices are starting to come down. Give it time….

Perhaps the next video should be on the next step up in size. The 393 and 423 are generally in the same price range. And the 423 is a totally different beast. Perhaps if you are considering the 373 vs 393 @ 40K, you should consider the 423 as well. The distinctions between the 373 and 423 are more substantial.

Just for conversation purposes, I've owned a 1996 Beneteau 42s7 for nearly eleven years. This particular year/model was built at Beneteau's US factory (now closed). Without question, I'm a coastal cruiser spending my sea time along the Mississippi, Alabama, and northwest Florida Gulf Coast. I've never been disappointed with Shutter Speed's performance. It loves winds in the 14-20 knots range, sailing like a dream. Along with cruising her, I also occassionally race, wherein my PHRF rating is 87. The only real issue I've experienced has been blistering, which I repaired two years ago (a video about that pullout is on my KZfaq channel). Next month I plan to haul out and take the opportunity to pull the rudder (it seems to have play and for good reason I suspect the lower bushing requires replacement). I'm also planning to replace the 30mm propeller shaft because a fishing line cut a deep groove just behind the strut. I'm the third owner. The first owner was fron the Bahamas where he raced the boat. Under his ownership, the boat also spent time in Miami before being purchased by a fellow in Mobile, Alabama. He raced it for a few years but eventually bad health forced him to sell it. That's when I purchased it. Unless racing crew is onboard, I'm a singlehanded sailor (70 years old as of this writing) who handles the boat very well. I have no plans to sell her any time soon. I'm hoping to have good health to continue to sail her for a few more years.

Probably shouldn’t let this secret out but the beneteau 400 is the boat everyone should be looking at. IMO way heavier displacement, better comfort ratio, better capsize, yanmar, great layout, made in the ninety so can be had cheaper, 5.4 draft.

We love the Pullman birth on our 393. We get so much airflow that we hardly ever feel the need for AC when we're on the hook or a mooring. The Pullman birth is much more comfortable than a vbirth. That alone is worth a lot. We also have 2 heads on the 393 which also makes a big difference.

It’s a good point to look closely at the data and not just model numbers to understand the real size of these.

Tim, we love your style. Another entertaining informative video. Keep it up! thanks, Marty & Laura

Boat prices is an interesting thing indeed. Interesting picks in the price range, both. However for 120k I'd personally prefer a 2 cabin Oceanis 40 like the one under contract right now in the UK. That gives you a lot more usable space at the same price point plus dual helm, huge cockpit, u-galley, huge salon area and more storage than you can shake an extra couple of ICECO freezers at. My thoughts anyway....

My brother just picked up 393 for 90k was on the market for 110k. Great information thanks for the comparison.

Both of these sailboats look exquisite.

as a Newbie, I'm grateful for the way it's presented... thanks all for the great comments!!

Great video. $40K is the money that will enable repairs, upgrades, and personalization. Especially for someone who's considering solo sailing into retirement. Thanks

I had to watch the video twice before I understood what is the "big problem". If I understand what you are getting at, you are basically saying "is the 393 being 18" longer than the 373 really worth paying $40,000?" Although I see what you are saying, to call that a "Big Problem" seems a tad exaggerated to me. I was expecting something structural like a tendency to get loose keel bolts or some other major structural defect, and not just a difference in price. But I am glad you pointed it out, because this is something exactly what I am looking for when I buy a boat this summer.

I have a 393 2 cabin and think it is a great couples boat for the ICW and Bahamas circuit. I can't argue with your points on these two models. I guess it is like either getting a 2 door or 4 door model of a car. We rarely use the forward head so having a bigger forward berth would be nice. But, I look at the fwd head as our spare in case a toilet or pump goes or if we can't get a pump out on the ICW we have a go to place. I think that as usual the choice comes down to your use case and what is available. A good video letting others know what is available and the differences. If you can't make up your mind go for the Catalina 42 Mk II.

There is a reason why B393, 411 and 423 will draw a slightly higher price. It is a more saught after boat, produced in high numbers, with a huge fan club. Even Don McIntyre of the Golden Globe Race has said that he would sail one in the south Atlantic. I don't know the 373, but the rigg on the 411 is very strong and someone in the comments mentioned that the 373 was weaker. So, are you actually comparing apples with apples. The two heads and pullman bed is a great plus. So, I would't put these two boats in the same category.

Great to see the videos coming Tim. As an annual visitor to Miami sorry to be missing you. Been following your channel for about 8 months now, just started watching from the beginning, gotta say the open way you guys shared costs was inspiring. Gave me and the wife hope that we can do the same in about 6 years, hoping 57 won’t be too old 😀

We know several people that own the 37.3 and she does terrible in gusts. They all round up without control. We would be behind them in the same gusts and our Pacific Seacraft 34 holds steady.

Impressive. Knowledge. Thank you Tim.

It's like the Beneteau 351/352 and the 361 , the 361 being way more money for basically the same boat. The 351/352 being the best bang for the buck bigger then 331or 343 and much cheaper and nicer interior

I fully expect my son to jump in here as he was in the market for a 393 and ended up with a mint 373. I really like the 373. It is well made, with a thicker hull than one would expect, and a very useable interior. I just really like both boats, and like you, am wondering when the other shoe will drop. IMHO, having owned a Beneteau for 22 years, this run of boats is the pinnacle of Beneteau production. I own an IP at this point, but I am never hesitant to brag about my old Beneteau. Its a good thing when the focus of constrernation is which of these two excellent boats is betterer.

Great video, thank you! Really enjoying the clean layout, and the pictures comparation :)

Interesting and fun video. I am looking forward to the DC boat show at National Harbor. May 3-5.

We've been shopping in the 50 foot range. It is surprising how few boats are on the market at that size.

I’d say you are spot on. We chartered a 373 in the. San Juan Islands this past summer. That was such a great boat for our family it convinced us to sell our Catalina 22 and get a bigger boat. A 393 popped up at a marina 10minutes away! Very similar boats, so easy to handle and sail. We’re excited for lots of adventures around Florida this next year!

Two feet usually gives more a big boost in liveability below decks as seems the case here. Out side of that between these two boats we're splitting hairs according to our host. Those that actually own one of these boats or have spent time on both should weigh in on whether the price tag difference is worth the extra dollars and of course depending on one's needs, not wants.

Thanks for the great info! We’re down for the boat show on Thursday. Hope to see you there! Never know when an upgrade will happen and it’s good to hear about the different opinions.

Every time I’m on a boat with Pullman berths I can’t help but think that arrangement is superior for having more berths in a smaller footprint. Anyone had a pullman style that they have regretted?

I have one out for survey friday. I would buy the 373 but they are rare here in UK and my wife was convinced by the sideboard.

I purchased my 361 back in 2013. I have a friend with the 373 and find the differences interesting. Having said that I'm in love with my 361. I've spent many a night/weekend on her and the long term goal is to do exactly what get's frequently discussed on this channel which is to coastal cruise (the Gulf of Mexico), maybe hit the Bahamas and then head south and cruise the Caribbean. Thanks for your educational channel!

I just looked on YW and they seem to be priced pretty comparable in the US.

Hi Tim. You’ve asked for our suggestions so here’s one. I’m wondering if you could please do a show on Erickson, particularly the Erickson 46. Thanks in advance….

Thanks again Tim!

As the sailboat market continues to fall, price for what are essentially identical boats is an important consideration. That’s what I have taken from this video. After watching numerous other boat comparison videos, including those extolling ex-charter boats versus private owner boats, it is quite apparent that considering several similar boats from different manufacturers, and even between models from the same manufacturer, a buyer can save tens of thousands of dollars on the purchase price. Money that can then be spent refitting or upgrading a boat to one that completely meets your individual needs.

The title was definitely clickbait, but I enjoyed knowing that the answer is the 373 that I purchased three years ago and have been happy with.

Well, I have a 393 and I wouldn’t change her for the world. Just adding some extra clutches on the port side for a asymmetrical and bow sprit.

Hi Tim, Thanks for getting me thinking about Beneteau. I started with your dream Beneteau 46 one day video. Then I was looking at the Oceanis 343 and ran across "cast iron" ballast. Cast iron oxidizes in salt water. Can you share your personal thoughts about a cast iron ballast? Thank you, EdO

Check the seacocks: ABYC recommends bronze, Euro rules do not require that and many Euro built boats have brass seacocks.

Hope there are sailboats at the Miami show. I went to the show in Boston last month, not a single sailboat... I was seriously disappointed.

The grey motor sold me But the pullman berth is a plos ? I had a 411 & did a lot of miles , Great boat ,Couldn't really fault it except the pounding up wind in a seaway but a cruiser shouldn't be hard on the wind for 3 days lol & floor room forard does that to aboat .

Owned a 373 fpr 4 years. Horrible boat to sail. Rudder not deep enough, maybe not enough weight in the keel. Maybe as you said the boat had a bit too much sail area. I did have the shallow draft model, which was most popular. Tendency to broach in 15kts! Yes, you read that correctly. The 393 sailed SO MUCH better. I sailed both. The interior of the 373 was great. Fantastic sized head. But if you were on a broad reach powering along and headed up quickly, man I watched the end of my boom heading towards the water. Blew the vang, then the mainsheet. Not what you would expect to have to. Solution on the Bene 373 forum (google group back then ;- ) was reef early and reef often. Too bad it had this characteristic and you say and I agree, the interior and price was fantastic.

I feel really bad for anyone who pays for advice from this guy. He has very limited experience, but is good at passing along hearsay.

Great vid… Really appreciate that comparison and 2 foot clarification… never sailed to Beneteau, but became a big fan based on the cockpits I have seen… I know that’s really silly… But after your Catalina 380 video, I am so confused as to the Beneteau 37 or the Catalina 380 To your question I don’t think what the 393 offers is worth 40 grand to us.

video is a lil blown out. I dig the new look, but your lights are a lil hot.

I bought a 373 summer of 2022 l looked at the 393 not many on the market at that time. I wanted an absolute max draft of 5ft. We also liked the Catalina 387 nice boat as well. Very few 387s on the market in 2022. Congratulations on your new adventure! I will look for you at Annapolis in October. Would really like some segments on technology/electronics I have new B&G stuff.i need to learning how to update software and want Navionics chart’s subscription. Also intrested in Skylink cost and how to. Also phones and Garmin in reach new personal Ais and PLB units. Would also like more travel/ cruising info love to see routes on Navionics or Aqua maps. For example when leaving Bimini to head to islands do you go north or south of Bimini to get on the bank? I haven been a subscriber to PS since the 80s in think you will do a great job! Have fun be safe. ,

After watching Expedition Evans, not sure I would trust any beneteau?

Cool episode.

Can you make a video about the new jeanneau yacht 55, and it's new design?

Ok! My 383: new electronics, standing rigging, two HVACs, 132 gal water, 98 gal fuel, shoal draft, flaked sail, but only 40 hp Westy. Point: owner's manual says this equipment is 20,000 lb, a big difference from 13,000! Standing room Pullman cabin: only thing better, an island queen, IMHO. BTW, I'm a fraction of an inch short of 12 meters, 39 ft, 3 in, not 38 ft. I think everyone should float their boat with the shekels they have. I bought mine for a retirement apartment, and am now stoked to fit out a luxury cruiser with electric fresh water head, (or raw), 1200Ah batteries, 925W solar, wind generator, 12V water maker, no arch or davits, just hinges and struts for the dingy. I'm mostly in SF Bay for now, then who knows? The little brother is fine, but who wants to start with a sucky berth on a live aboard? Lady K, will the two tons in the same Coastal Hull help my comfort rating offshore? Thanks

Cool, and interesting

It's true, you allways need to look at the stats. It makes you wonder why they even build 2 models of basically the same boat.

the price is determined by what people are willing to spend. so leaves me with the question, why do people spend more for the 393

Interesting you should bring this company up. I recently saw someone near me was parting one out. I believe a 393. I have heard that they're not great in the ocean, namely big storms, "it's a rich guys boat" blah blah blah.I was pretty upset they were parting it out. I wish I could tell you my complaints with these boats but I have no experience. In fact I've only seen pictures. I identified I was pissed because I would have bought it and fixed whatever ails it for my current budget. Until next time!

I'd like to hear you talk about liverboard status versus owning a boat and being able to use your boat I'm out here in California paying my slip fieri month and I'm actually only allowed to stay on my boat 14 days a month If I was to go down there and buy a boat how hard would it be to live on my boat fix it up before I jump off

I'm glad I subscribed to the channel. Good job!

I had a 1991 Beneteau M38 back in the late 90s. It was my first sailboat and was alot of fun. I think it was 55k back then. I have been out of the boating scene for a while and was wanting a larger boat just for myself and was liking the 473, 2 cabin layout. I see them for around £100-150k and it looks like alot of boat for the money. Would this be a good liveaboard for a year or so cruising around the med? Im not too familiar with this boat but i do like the interior and the accommodations. I have also seen some really inexpensive Idyll 15.5 from the mid 80s and wondered if those are worth the investment. Those can be had for £70-90K and are 51ft. My concern was hull integrity since its almost 40yrs old.

Wow Sailor, love to join you one day to tap your knowledge

I had this conversation with my wife about a year ago. As it is, we zero'd in on neither opting for something a bit smaller but considerably heavier (Blame Kretchmer and Larry Pardy (rip) for that! ) Having visited many of these in European waters, and being entirely un-scientific, the 373's always presented better and the 393's tended to be a bit 'rougher', maybe from undeclared charter work or my wife's theory that the 393 is "40 footer maintenance costs" and maybe the 373 is just a bit less hard on the expenses so gets better care?

Skipper, sets will no doubt be changing? Don't get me wrong, having just your handsome mug filling half a black screen is wonderful, but maybe frame that famous mug? =)

No 373’s for sale on yacht world😮 that I could find

We have a 393 owners version and i've been on the newer models like 40 and a 37. Noticed the standing rigging of the 37 was very smaller en less robust as on ours. Also (don't know the English term) side rigging runs through the deck attatched to the hull at ours, which the 37 has it attatched on the deck. And the newer interior i found the wood is of less quality. Chips off a lot of varnish when on ours nothing is off. Is that the difference you mean? We still love our boat, but looking for something bigger and a bit more blue water to cross from west to east.

That was a long 6 mins........well 3 mins actually, phew!

Typo, 393!

Is there a good cruising trimaran?

I have a 373 owner version, at 37 it’s perfect for me. All lines run aft so no going forward unnecessary. I felt the 393 a little too big for solo sailing but I’d have got one if one can up, but the 373 came up at the right price so I got it…. I’m happy. The other reason I purchased the Ben 373 is when I come to sell her some years down the road I shouldn’t have an issue selling her….

A quick review of Sailboat Data brings into question your numbers. Beneteau 393 has LOA of 39.33' while the 373 has LOA of 36.92 so more than 2 feet difference in length, not 1 foot. The real story is in the difference in beam with the 373 having 12.3' compared to 393 with 13. Anyone who understands how sailboats are built knows that every additional inch of beam adds exponentially to the interior volume. Also, sailboat data indicates 373 has 600 sqft of sail area, not the over 700 you state. The 393 has approx 640 sqft of sail area so not a huge difference but still contrary to your claims. Fact check?

Even the little brother is a bit big for me. As a solo retiree about a 35 footer is my limit. Mostly I just want to comment to jiggle the algo! :-)

*I'm an idiot. I mixed up my real feed with some random yt recommendation. A 'no contest' plea has been entered.*

Will the keel fall off?

The 393 is in a better school district? "Oh look! You got cute 373! I hear the public schools are getting better every year."

Typically its good to stay away from older Volvo engines.

When was the last time you actually sailed?

Same difference with the moody 376 to the 346 there’s a 40k difference

You actually did not make a good argument for not going with the smaller Beneteau

Interior volume = more materials/furnitire= more $$.... Simple. No mystery here

Problems with fiberglass boats with steel keels that live underwater the whole season? Color me surprised.

Guitar music spain

Between 38 and 42 feet and 100k? Sounds like retiree numbers. My man. I'm young, broke, accustomed to hard work and claustrophobic living conditions, and ready to stop paying my apartment manager's salary. I'm more in the 'work hazmat clean-up at the cost of years of your life' boat.

Don’t like the new “black Screen”. Go back to the “personal backdrop”. It helps connect your personality with your audience.

Size matters :D

I survived 2011 in Greece a Tornado with 12 Bft. on an Oceanis 393 2006 built. 50 Boats tried to survive the tornado. 20 Boats had their masts chopped off like a match from the hull! The Oceanis 393 survived the tornado with out any scratch and the mast stood like a tower. Now… I am a happy owner of an Oceanis 40 built 2008. Everbody sais to me, such a nice boat! I will never sell my boat.

What people won’t do for a nickel a view. 😊

👏👏👏👏🇨🇦🇨🇦

If $40k is the difference between you going sailing - or not, then this is a problem that deserves addressing

In your opinion, i hate these so called experts

Hey mate chasing latitudes has just outed you as a copycat ( ripping him of ) what ya got to say about that pal

ikea 😂😢

All boats are a big problem My 12’ tinny is the only one that doesn’t My 2000 , 38.1 oceanis is good , it floats , I live in it . It sails too I gotta fix stuff I saw new boats on the hard beside me doing way more repairs so an old boat isn’t any different Have you seen what crosses oceans ! Egos don’t boats do

Not known as Bendyboats for nothing

Beneteau's are trash. Anything with a glued in liner without access to the hull is a disaster waiting to happen.

first!

Certified skipper since 30 years and owner of a 393 from new here, and for seven years. I think once again this video is just clickbait. The 373 displaces 6,630 kg, the 393 displaces 7,780. You're getting 17% more boat, ergo the price difference. BTW I had the Kubota-based Nanni Industries 50hp diesel and it was great. All the ancilliaries on the front end, easy to service, just lift up the companionway stairs. Did 1,800 hrs on it, no prob. You say "it's got a masthead sloop"... Jesus. No, sir, it IS a masthead sloop. Look it up. If you cannot express yourself in proper naval terminology, why should anyone watch your videos?

Sorry but, where is the problem🫤????