Oceanis 370 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Oceanis 370 in 1990 marked a significant point in Beneteau's history, building upon the company's pioneering adoption of fiberglass construction in the 1960s. This transition allowed Beneteau to produce recreational sailboats that were more efficient, lighter, and broadly appealing to a burgeoning leisure market. During this period, Beneteau, under the guidance of Benjamin Bénéteau's grandsons, fostered a manufacturing ethos that sought to balance performance with comfort, making sailing more accessible. The Oceanis 370, designed by Philippe Briand, reflects this philosophy, aiming to provide a vessel that was both satisfying to sail and comfortable to live aboard. While the primary model featured a fin keel, a winged keel version was also offered, reducing the draft to 4.17 feet, providing more versatility for navigating shallower waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 35.67 feet and a waterline length of 31.58 feet, the Oceanis 370 is designed for balanced cruising performance. Her calculated sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.55 suggests a boat capable of respectable performance across a range of wind conditions, leaning towards a general-purpose cruiser rather than a dedicated light-air performer. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 31.9%, indicates that while she may exhibit a degree of tenderness in stronger winds, she is also designed for nimble handling. Her displacement to length ratio of approximately 181.2 points to a relatively lighter boat for her size, which contributes to a more lively sailing experience compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers.

Owners often report the Oceanis 370 to be a pleasant boat to handle, with control lines typically led aft to the cockpit for ease of sail management. The design focuses on providing an "easy, enjoyable, and forgiving" sailing experience, making it a good choice for both experienced sailors and those looking for a manageable cruising yacht.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau Oceanis 370 is known for offering a spacious and comfortable living environment within its manageable external dimensions. Many configurations feature a three-cabin layout, providing ample sleeping capacity and living space both above and below deck. The interior is designed with functionality in mind, typical of Beneteau's cruising range. While specific details on finish quality and materials vary by individual boat and refits, the general approach emphasizes practicality and comfort for extended cruising. Common amenities found on these vessels include efficient layouts for the salon, galley, and head, alongside adequate storage for provisions and gear. Some models may even be equipped with air conditioning, further enhancing comfort during warmer climates. The cockpit is notably spacious and comfortable, contributing significantly to the boat's livability at anchor and under sail.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 370 generally appreciate its solid construction and suitability as a comfortable cruising platform. Common strengths frequently cited include the generous interior volume for a boat of its size, making it well-suited for family cruising or longer voyages. The Beneteau brand's extensive global dealer network also provides comprehensive support for owners, fostering a strong sense of community through owner groups and rallies.

However, some recurring themes regarding maintenance and potential issues have been noted by owners over the years. Instances of original deck fittings developing leaks, often requiring re-bedding, are not uncommon on older Beneteau models. Furthermore, owners have occasionally reported issues with the original Volvo Penta diesel engines, and some discussions point to potential challenges with in-mast furling systems, suggesting that older sails or mechanisms might contribute to problems. Despite these considerations, the Oceanis 370 generally maintains a reputation as a well-regarded and capable cruising yacht.