Oceanis 34 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Beneteau Oceanis 34 was in production from 2008 until 2013, when it was succeeded by the Oceanis 34.1. Its creation reflects Beneteau's pivotal shift towards fiberglass construction, a revolution initiated in the 1960s by Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons, André and François. This transition allowed for more efficient production and lighter hulls, broadening the appeal of recreational sailboats. The design brief for the Oceanis 34 was ambitious: to deliver a yacht that was both easy to handle and provided bright, welcoming living spaces. While the standard model featured a maximum draft of 6.08 feet and a bulb keel, a shallower draft version was also available, drawing 4.5 feet with a slightly increased ballast to accommodate various cruising grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Oceanis 34 is characterized by its fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, a configuration common on modern production cruisers that enhances agility and responsiveness, particularly in moderate conditions. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.05, the Oceanis 34 offers moderate performance, well-suited for comfortable cruising rather than high-performance racing. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 195 places it in the light-to-moderate displacement category, suggesting a relatively nimble vessel for its size. The Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of approximately 0.255 is on the lower side for some cruisers, which may lead to it being perceived as somewhat tender in heavier airs, a characteristic sometimes noted by owners. However, despite this, owners frequently praise its sailing capabilities, describing it as "a blast to sail" and remarkably easy for two intermediate sailors to handle, even enabling confident single-handed operation. The boat's design aims to provide good performance for a cruising yacht, offering a satisfying sailing experience for its intended purpose.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Oceanis 34, crafted by Nauta Design, is celebrated for feeling remarkably spacious for a 34-footer. The design prioritizes comfort, user-friendliness, and bright, airy interiors, living up to its promise of "bright and welcoming living spaces" where "life is good aboard." While specific detailed layouts can vary, the Oceanis 34 typically offers a two-cabin configuration, with some arrangements potentially allowing for a third, accommodating up to eight people. This versatile setup, combined with ample natural light and thoughtful use of space, makes it well-suited for extended stays on board for families or groups.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally hold the Beneteau Oceanis 34 in high regard, often referring to it as an "affordable performance cruiser" and a "blast to sail" that includes details often found on more expensive boats. Its ease of handling is a frequently lauded attribute, with many finding it sails "incredibly well" and is straightforward for even two intermediate sailors to manage. Some initial concerns have been noted regarding the boat's tenderness due to its ballast ratio, with some owners experiencing "round up problems originally" in certain conditions. However, this is often seen as a characteristic of modern cruising designs rather than a flaw, and many owners ultimately express satisfaction with its performance. As with many older fiberglass vessels from production builders, a general consideration for potential buyers might include checking for signs of corrosion, though this is a broader characteristic of older Beneteau models rather than a specific, pervasive issue unique to the Oceanis 34. The overall consensus points to the Oceanis 34 as a capable and enjoyable cruising platform, with at least one owner embarking on an extensively equipped round-the-world journey on theirs.