Oceanis 393 (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Beneteau Oceanis 393 marked the third generation of Beneteau's acclaimed Oceanis range, which at the time spanned seven designs from 32 to 52 feet. Its production began in 2002, building upon Beneteau's extensive experience and commitment to the fiberglass revolution that had transformed their boatbuilding since the 1960s. The builder, with a heritage dating back to 1884, transitioned from traditional wooden fishing trawlers to become a global leader in recreational yacht manufacturing by embracing innovative materials and efficient production methods. During the era of the Oceanis 393's creation, Beneteau collaborated with top naval architects like Jean Berret and Olivier Racoupeau (Berret Racoupeau Yacht Design) to ensure their designs remained contemporary, balancing performance, comfort, and affordability.

The design philosophy behind the Oceanis 393 aimed to create a vessel suitable for a small crew while offering a concentration of "the art of living on a cruise". While the standard model featured a maximum draft of 5.08 feet (1.55 meters), a deep draft option of 6.25 feet was also available, catering to different sailing preferences and cruising grounds. The boat was offered with both two- and three-cabin layouts, both including two heads, providing flexibility for various owner needs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just over 39 feet and a waterline length of 35.08 feet, the Beneteau Oceanis 393 is classified as a monohull with a bulb keel and spade rudder, designed for stable and predictable handling. Its displacement of 17,152 pounds relative to its waterline length results in a displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 398. This indicates a moderate to heavy displacement cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway and a stable platform, rather than a lightweight, high-performance racer.

The reported sail area of 806 square feet, combined with its displacement, yields a sail area-to-displacement ratio of about 19.4. This ratio suggests that the Oceanis 393 is adequately powered for light to moderate winds, offering a satisfying sailing experience without being overly sensitive or demanding. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that while generally easily handled, the boat's upwind performance can be hindered in brisk conditions if the sails are old or misshapen. The ballast-to-displacement ratio, using the standard keel's ballast of 5,357 pounds, is approximately 0.312. This moderate ratio contributes to the boat's stability but indicates it may not be as stiff as vessels designed with a higher percentage of ballast for extreme conditions. Overall, the Oceanis 393 is regarded as a "semi-performance bluewater cruiser" with "healthy behaviour and easy manoeuvring," well-suited for cruising with a small crew.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Beneteau Oceanis 393 is characterized by a thoughtful design that emphasizes comfort and practicality for cruising. The boat was available in both two-cabin and three-cabin configurations, with both versions consistently featuring two heads, providing ample privacy and convenience for owners and guests. While specific maximum headroom is not provided, the interior layout reflects attention to detail, aiming to offer a bright and inviting living space.

Typical layouts would feature a spacious V-berth forward, often serving as the owner's cabin, complete with an en-suite head. The main salon typically includes a U-shaped settee and a straight settee, providing generous seating around a central dining table. A well-appointed galley is usually positioned along one side, offering functional space for meal preparation. Aft, there are typically one or two private cabins, each capable of accommodating a double berth, alongside a second day head. The finish quality generally incorporates a blend of wood trim and fiberglass elements, characteristic of Beneteau's production cruisers of this era, aiming for durability and ease of maintenance alongside a comfortable aesthetic. Ventilation is typically achieved through numerous deck hatches and opening portholes, ensuring a comfortable environment at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 393 generally commend its solid construction and the overall comfort it provides, particularly on extended voyages. Many appreciate its suitability for coastal cruising and its ability to handle various sea states with a comfortable motion. The spacious interior, especially the two-cabin version with larger living areas, is frequently cited as a significant strength, making it a popular choice for families or couples seeking ample living space.

However, some recurring themes emerge in owner discussions regarding common maintenance points. Issues such as the wearing out of the cutlass bearing have been noted. As with many production boats of its age, owners might encounter typical issues like leaks from original deck fittings over time, requiring re-bedding. While generally praised for its handling, some owners have reported that performance to windward can be less than optimal if the sails are old and lose their shape. Despite these minor points, the Beneteau Oceanis 393 is widely regarded as a reliable and enjoyable cruiser, fostering a strong sense of community among its owners.