Beneteau 373 Information, Review, Specs

The Beneteau 373 began production in 2004, designed by Jean Berret and Olivier Racoupeau of Berret-Racoupeau, with the specific goal of creating an "out-and-out cruiser." This model succeeded the popular Beneteau Oceanis 361, incorporating several key improvements, including a deeper hull shape, an increased waterline length, and a more expansive deck. Beneteau, with its long history rooted in pragmatic boatbuilding for fishermen since 1884, transitioned into fiberglass construction in the 1960s, a move that revolutionized its recreational sailboat production. This allowed for more efficient manufacturing and broader appeal, an ethos clearly reflected in the 373's design. The vessel features a fiberglass grid system, a construction technique shared with larger Beneteau models like the Oceanis 393 and 423, which is integral to distributing sailing loads and enhancing stability. While largely consistent in its production run, the Beneteau 373 was offered with a choice of a standard fin keel or an optional shoal-draft keel, providing versatility for different cruising grounds. The "Clipper" designation indicated that certain optional equipment was included as standard.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau 373 is characterized by a design that prioritizes both comfort and satisfying sailing performance. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 19.09 (based on reported sail area of 716 sq ft and displacement of 14,617 lbs), the yacht demonstrates decent power in moderate winds and is noted for its good performance in lighter air due to a narrow waterline beam. Its displacement to length ratio of around 184.8 suggests a boat that is relatively light for its size, contributing to a "fast passage through the waves" and "fast, clean performance."

The boat's steering is described as light and responsive, offering sufficient feedback to the helmsperson. Its slender hull and well-balanced sail plan contribute to good directional stability, and the helm maintains balance effectively when heeled. While the standard ballast to displacement ratio of 0.264 is on the lower side, indicative of a cruising boat, the deeper 6.07 ft (or 1.9m) draft keel option provides greater stiffness and improved upwind performance. Reviewers have noted that proper rig tension and sail trim, particularly managing twist and leech tension, are crucial for optimal upwind performance. The Beneteau 373 proves to be highly maneuverable and easy to handle, spinning effortlessly through tacks. Under power, the standard 40 HP Yanmar diesel engine (or optional Volvo 2040) is robust, pushing the boat at over 6 knots at 2,000 rpm and capable of reaching 8 knots at full throttle, with predictable and manageable close-quarters handling.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau 373 is highly praised for its spacious and bright interior, which often feels more akin to a 40-footer than a vessel of its 37-foot length. A key contributor to this expansive feel is the generous headroom, measuring around 6 feet 5 inches throughout the main saloon and approximately 6 feet 2 inches in the forward cabin.

The interior layout typically offers sleeping accommodations for four to six people, available in two or three-cabin configurations. The forward cabin features a comfortable double V-berth. The main saloon is well-appointed with an L-shaped settee and a straight settee, providing ample seating for dining and relaxation. Aft, the yacht includes a double berth in the port-side cabin, with an option for a second aft cabin. The two-cabin version particularly benefits from a very large double berth aft and an exceptionally spacious cockpit locker, which often includes shelving for better organization.

The L-shaped galley is positioned on the port side, just forward of the companionway ladder. It comes equipped with a three-burner stove, a front-opening refrigerator, a separate top-opening icebox that can be converted into a freezer, and a stainless-steel double sink with hot and cold pressurized water. Good ventilation is provided by an opening port and hatch. Opposite the galley, on the starboard side, is a forward-facing navigation station. One of the standout features of the Beneteau 373 is its aft head, often described as more of a "bathroom" due to its generous size, full standing headroom in the shower area, a folding screen, and even a teak bench for comfort. The overall finish showcases predominant fiberglass construction with tasteful wood trim, and panoramic forward-facing windows flood the cabin with natural light, contributing to an airy and open ambiance.

The cockpit is also thoughtfully designed for comfort and ease of movement. A notable and patented feature is the pivoting steering wheel, which rotates 90 degrees to create an unencumbered walkthrough from the helm to the transom and swimming platform. The cockpit also includes half-depth lockers to port and starboard, and a full-depth locker in the stem.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently laud the Beneteau 373 for its robust construction and comfortable motion, even in challenging conditions. The inherent stability provided by its fiberglass grid system instills confidence, with Beneteau offering a five-year limited structural warranty upon launch, underscoring their confidence in the design. Many appreciate the light and responsive steering, as well as the boat's overall maneuverability, making it easy to handle in various situations. Its spacious interior, with generous headroom and well-appointed cabins, is consistently praised for enhancing the cruising experience. The award as "Best Value" by Cruising World magazine further highlights the positive reception among the sailing community.

However, common issues reported by owners, which are generally applicable to many production fiberglass boats as they age, include potential for strange creaking noises due to hull flex, fiberglass cracking or delamination, and deck core rot if moisture ingress occurs. Owners have also discussed issues with stern gland lubrication and anode placement, though these are often rectifiable with proper maintenance and attention. While the Beneteau 373 is considered a well-built production yacht, like any vessel, its long-term condition significantly depends on the diligence of its owners in maintaining its systems and structure.