Oceanis 390 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The Beneteau Oceanis 390 commenced production in 1987 and continued to be built until 1993. During this period, Beneteau, a company with roots in building robust fishing trawlers, had firmly embraced fiberglass construction, a pivotal shift that allowed for more efficient production and broader appeal in the recreational market. The builder's ethos at the time focused on balancing performance with comfort and affordability, a characteristic evident in the Oceanis line.

Philippe Briand's design for the Oceanis 390 emphasized spacious accommodations and ease of handling, aligning with the growing demand for comfortable cruising yachts. The hull, typically constructed of solid fiberglass, features a fin keel and a spade rudder, contributing to its maneuverability. Notably, the Oceanis 390 was offered with a choice of keels: a standard fin keel or an optional shallower wing keel, which reduced the draft to 4.5 feet (1.37 meters), providing greater flexibility for navigating shallower waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 17.19, the Beneteau Oceanis 390 exhibits a moderate sail plan for its displacement, suggesting a reasonable balance between light-air performance and the ability to carry sail in stronger breezes without being overly tender. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of approximately 0.36 indicates a stability profile geared towards a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than extreme stiffness under sail. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of around 388.54 categorizes the Oceanis 390 as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, implying a solid feel and momentum, especially beneficial in chop.

While some discussions among owners have raised questions regarding its stability, particularly in heavier seas, Beneteau maintains that the Oceanis 390 is a safe and comfortable yacht well-suited for pleasure sailing. Anecdotal reports suggest that the boat generally handles well, offering predictable behavior. However, its design intent leaned towards comfortable cruising rather than high-performance racing, translating to a forgiving and relatively stable ride, albeit with some owners noting a softer motion in certain conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

The Beneteau Oceanis 390 is recognized for its generous interior volume, which was a significant selling point for family cruisers and charter operations of its era. The layout typically features spacious accommodations designed for comfortable living aboard. Common configurations include a three-cabin layout, providing multiple private double berths, and a two-cabin owner's version that offers an even more expansive forward cabin.

Regardless of the cabin configuration, the Oceanis 390 generally boasts two heads compartments, enhancing privacy and convenience for crew or guests. Reviews often highlight the ample natural light afforded by expansive skylights, contributing to an open and airy feel below deck. While specific details on interior finish materials may vary by individual boat and year, Beneteau typically utilized quality wood trim alongside fiberglass liners, focusing on durable and functional surfaces suited for a cruising environment. Storage is generally plentiful, catering to the needs of extended voyages.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 390 generally appreciate its robust construction and comfortable cruising capabilities. Many praise Philippe Briand's design, finding it well-suited for family cruising and extended trips. The spacious interior, often featuring multiple cabins and two heads, is a frequently lauded strength, making it a popular choice for charter companies and larger crews.

However, common maintenance considerations, typical for boats of its age, include potential issues with original deck fittings developing leaks, necessitating re-bedding, and general corrosion on older vessels. Some owners have also expressed concerns regarding the boat's stability characteristics in specific heavy weather conditions, though overall, it is regarded as a safe vessel for its intended purpose of pleasure sailing. The boat's long production run and widespread presence have fostered a community of owners who often share insights and support, particularly through online forums.