Kudos to both of you. I have read and written many marine technical documents during my 30+ year career as a Naval Architect. Your E-Book is very well done and a must-have for anyone planning to do blue water passages on a 40 to 46 foot Beneteau Oceanis of our vintage (2007 to 2012). These boats are very similar to each other in so many ways. It is now filed in my boat's e-library. Thanks for taking the time to publish it!
Thanks so much Randy we have spent quite some putting it all together so your feedback is much appreciated. Hope the book can provide you plenty of value for your journey on the Beneteau!
I still don't understand these stupid discussions going around the Web, who decides if a boat can be considered bluewater or not? Expensive or cheaper? Good or Bad? Typology and specifications? Why doesn't a specific body establish it according to strict criteria to which all manufacturers must adhere? Who controls who and how? According to what regulation? And recognised by whom? Do we still want to believe in the fairytale of the CE mark? Which, by the way, I see it written everywhere even on my underpants! So I don't think we need to be a naval architect to understand a very simple, if not obvious, concept that regardless of the builder, whether it is Beneteau or any other, there is a legislative and regulatory VOID in this sector that concerns not only the construction and design, choice of the materials and their origin, the absolute lack of supervision by any recognised third independent body from the design, the construction, up to the delivery of this type of boats, the lack of training and professional courses for the staff employed by these yards, which would make the most stubborn navigator pale. The truth is that these shipyards do what they want and their constructions have one and only one denominator the profit!
That last wave that appeared to be breaking just short of the stern is interesting. In similiar conditions (winds @ 40kn or so, big waves hard to tell how big) on other boats I've crewed, the skipper/owner usually furled the main and we sailed on trimmed jib alone, sometimes on a pole, sometimes a broad reach, and still kept our speed up with less strain on the rig. You all looked fairly comfortable here, was there at any time reason to think that a part of the rig or structure was under undue stress and liable to break (it's usually a shackle that holds the jib or genoa atvthe topnofthe mastvthat got torsion twisted and readtvto part when inspected later in port.)
People swim across the channel, row across the Atlantic and we applaud them. Do what you want. A 40ft Beneteau in comparison is a perfectly rational choice of boat, and I believe your upgrades are very well judged. A modern production boat has many advantages in design, equipment and cost. Ignore the naysayers - you're young and living the dream and your boat enables that, and I'm sure you love her for it. I say well done to both of you.
I fully agree with Philip. I am owner of a similar production boat. I made almost the same upgrades you did. I am sailing all the Med and willing to cross Atlanic and doing Carribean with her. At the same time personally I am also planning to change boat before engaging into the Pacific. But it is a choice. And I would not trust more a similar budget old blue water cruiser just becouse she « was » built as a blue water one. At the end it is a matter of redundacy. And the speed of the boat relative to the budget (and whether forecsts) provide a mitigation to the luck of redundancy. And as a matter of fact many construction boats including Dufour andf Bavaria circumnavigated the world already. It looks to me you know the long and short of what you are doing. Enjoy it. Massimo
I still don't understand these stupid discussions going around the Web, who decides if a boat can be considered bluewater or not? Expensive or cheaper? Good or Bad? Typology and specifications? Why doesn't a specific body establish it according to strict criteria to which all manufacturers must adhere? Who controls who and how? According to what regulation? And recognised by whom? Do we still want to believe in the fairytale of the CE mark? Which, by the way, I see it written everywhere even on my underpants! So I don't think we need to be a naval architect to understand a very simple, if not obvious, concept that regardless of the builder, whether it is Beneteau or any other, there is a legislative and regulatory VOID in this sector that concerns not only the construction and design, choice of the materials and their origin, the absolute lack of supervision by any recognised third independent body from the design, the construction, up to the delivery of this type of boats, the lack of training and professional courses for the staff employed by these yards, which would make the most stubborn navigator pale. The truth is that these shipyards do what they want and their constructions have one and only one denominator the profit!
Thoughtful and thorough preps, and I can't fault your basic premise: If you are thoughtful about the production boat you choose for trade wind ocean crossings, and then you strengthen its abilities to match the demands of long distance cruising, you should have no regrets. Excellent presentation - congratulations!
Great video, straight to the point, no BS. Really like the way you’ve set up the boat, especially the rig. Excellent organization of gear and equipment. 👍🏻
Nice job of presenting the information. We have an Oceanis 50 and have put 45,000nm under our keel in the past five years. We can second the statement that with proper planning the Beneteau is an awesome offshore cruiser. In addition, even when you miss time a passage or you get smacked by a storm on a longer passage, the boat really is up for the challenge. We've experienced 6 to 8m seas and sustained 40 and 50 knot winds on a few memorable occasions and whilst we wouldn't wish to repeat, the boat handled it well. Do note that the one big difference in our view between the Beneteau, say and Oyster, Hylas or Southerly will be ride comfort. Oh, and price. Lastly, would agree that a protected rudder would be more desirable but that still doesn't stop the thousands of Beneteaus we see out here. You've done a nice job of minimizing the risk with your Hydrovane. Great comments on this one, fun to read!
Your book is an absolutely fantastic resource. For only $10 it’s a steal and a no-brainer. Many thanks 🙏 to you for doing this work. Very very helpful.
I think a lot of people could use this video as an example of how to impart wisdom with just the right amount of detail in an articulate no nonsense but friendly way . Its sort of ok ploughing through the mumblings and meanderings of happy folk with the details of their passion project but this is so different and a joy to watch . Not to mention what an excellent job youve done with the boat ! I feel you two have rare skills. Thank you so much
Great vid, well put together and thought out. The main question ‘is this boat good enough for ocean crossings’ is fairly simple to answer. Every boat has somewhere a builder’s data plate, on this plate you’ll find reference to a ‘design category’ - A, B, C or D. Category A is ‘Ocean’ - designed to be capable and self sufficient in wind that may exceed force 8 and wave heights in excess of 4m. Obviously there are boats out there in category B (offshore), C (inshore) and D (sheltered waters) that are taken across oceans but consider the implications of your insurance not paying out should something happen and you have to bail into the life raft with your beacon. FYI Oceanis 40 is Class A, as are most boats above 30 ft.
Hi Sam & Nicole Just watched arguably one of the most informative videos for anyone with an interest in crossing an ocean in a production boat. Your openess with information is to be applauded. As you know we are in the process of planning our our journey and this video has given a lot of pointers and food for thought for us to ponder on. Thank you again. Keep safe.
Thanks for the kind comment and glad you got some good value from the vid. No worries at all and all the best with your planning to head offshore. Take care and fair winds 🤙
I love your videos, they have a great style and tone - please keep it up. Having discovered your channel this week I have just binge watched it all. We have an Oceanis 361 from 2003 which we purchased this year - our plan is to build experience and confidence sailing the West Coast of Scotland and North of Ireland for the next few years and then when we retire we hope to buy a slightly bigger boat - 40/45ft and see where life takes us ( somewhere warmer...). The Oceanis range of boats are certainly blue water capable with a few upgrades and careful planning. Fair winds and looking forward to seeing the rest of your adventure. 👍. Just downloaded your ebook too 👍
Thanks so much for your support! Much appreciated 🙏. I’m sure you’ll build experience pretty quick on the West coast of Scotland. Good luck on your journey and fair winds 🤙
The sheeting angles can make a huge difference with rolling. Use tweakers and adjust the raveller to make it as comfortable as possible. Then sometimes a slow roll in a swell can improve performance greatly. Its called ooching.
The Quartermaster* Very impressive and well thought out! One thing that we carried on our Beneteau 40 c/c was a Luke 3pc. 80lb, fisherman storm anchor. This saved tons of space when broken down and could be put together with just 3 large locking pins. 100 ft of three eights triple strength chain and 300 ft, of three quarters triple braid nylon rode. When things looked hairy it was nice to know it was on board! Best wishes and safe travels!
I hope I'm correct with your names, Sam and Nicole! We do share the same boat manufacturer Beneteau. My wife and I purposely bought our 40 foot c/c for live aboard cruising. We never once felt that our boat was not a capable blue water cruising yacht! Your videos are professionally done with a great mix of actually sailing in a lot of different conditions and taking us along seeing the fantastic Islands and friendly inhabitants! Best wishes ❤️ to a beautiful couple! Steve and Paula S/V Adios
Great boat. Our friend Mark is 1.5 times around the planet on his Beneteau 393. Stay sail/cutter rig is probably the main 'bluewater' safety feature, as is your attention to detail and wear items.
Have a Dufour 470 and have been cataloging many of the same tasks to complete to go “blue water”. You two have lived it in a typical production boat and made it work. Thank you for putting all your experience into a e-book reference that is well worth the price of a couple beers.
Just watched your video regarding your systems on your boat. I was very impressed with your thoroughness with each system, it is very apparent you worked through each system completely. Kudos, a lot of people think that you just get on a boat and go. Just take a look at sailing gbu
Sam Holmes sailing / wind hippie sailing both boats crossing oceans. 50 years ago there was no iridium go or windie apps, when you had to be be prepared for storms/waves. Pick your weather window and have your batteries ready.
Hello .... big congratulations !!!! It is one of the best videos I have seen, not only addressing the situation about production sailboats such as "blue waters", but also because of the order and logic posed in front of each fraction required to sail safely on the high seas or in a lagoon. . I am preparing a Jeanneau 469 with the same concepts and I felt very pleased and reflected with what they have done. Only that I will go against the traffic, from Chile to Europe, including Norway in some of my routes
Wow thanks so much for your words! 🙏 super glad you enjoyed the video and had some value to take away! Sounds like a great voyage you have planned in a nice big Jeanneau, best of luck and fair winds!
The paddle speedsensor should be taken out after the trip and replaced with the dummy. Second I would place the wooden bungs next to the thruhulls so in case they are already there.
thnaks again for this video that I watched for the second time (at least). I bought your 2 e-book, to thank for those explaination. My goal is to cross the atlantic (East->West) the next year...
I met a guy in Fiji who hollowed out a tree built a mast in peru and sailed across the Pacific. And a guy who bought a boat for a dollar off Craigslist on a different trip to Fiji. you can do it in all almost anything. On a production boat I would modify the rudder tube and attachment etc.& probably not heading into high latitudes
A) there are more beneteaus on the ocean than all other brands combined, and more crossing oceans than any other single brand. B) you can cross in anything if you watch the weather window properly.
God how awful those "Internet forums" are!!!! They've never crossed a bathtub,let alone the oceans!!! Beneteau and Jeaneau are fantastic brands and they absolutely get the job done!!!! Piss on them and you two have done a fantastic job...keep it up!!!!
Everyone has to feel comfortable with their decisions as they head out. For me, I'm thankful for my full-keel, heavy displacement double ender. Every bit of it is built like a tank. No keel bolts. No exposed rudder. It's been around the world once and we're taking it around again.
There is nothing wrong with a Beneteau. I owned a 461 and it was a solid boat, quite fast and was well furnished. I had it modified from a four cabin to a three cabin to make it more livable to me. I agree with your sail modifications, it needs a self tacking jib and a third reef in the main. I had the teak decks refurbished and replaced the foredeck to give it a new life. The exhaust elbow replacement is a must. Mine was almost completely blocked. I replaced all the hoses, throttle cable, standing and running rigging, the guide wires and batteries to increase the storage to 560ah. You can never have enough! The fin keel needed some work due to corrosion. You can argue all day long about a blue water boat and I agree a steel or aluminum keel is safest, particularly with a full length keel but they are hard to maneuver backwards and slow. Amels have a fin keel and so do lots of other boats costing a lot more money and most boats today are made of fiberglass. I have heard you tubers sneer about “plastic fantastic” boats when that is exactly what their boat is. Ignore the detractors, you have a solid boat which will serve you well.
We crossed the atlantic 3 years ago on our B43 which is quite similar to your boat. We made this first crossing with the boat as we bought it. We are now preparing to leave next summer for a 5 year trip and replaced, modified, reinforced a lot of stuff. New sails, purpose made (reinforced). New sprayhood and bimini with 400 watt semi flexible pv panels on the bimini. Lithium batteries and modification of alternator charging to protect alternator. New motormounts, replaced all standing rigging with dieform. Installed watermaker, …. And the list goes on and on. With our experience i could maybe make some small additions to your ebook
Good job Francis, some great boat jobs ticked off the list especially the lithiums and watermaker. If your interested the ebook can be downloaded at www.sailingbeaver.com/shop/
It doesn’t sound like you guys are new to this, it sounds like an extensive amount of research has been made here, Although many experts say these boats are not recommended for blue water, It’s awesome to see you guys getting it done, We’ll done,
I hope so because I’d better stop using it if it isn’t . The little plate inside the boat says it is too . Lucky for me it’s my first sailboat and I know no better. 38.1 Oceanis yr 2000 I’ve got about ten miles solo so far Maybe 200 taught . I’m a kitesurfer and this will be the biggest kiteboard I’ve ever been on 😂 Listen I been told it’s fine to use to cross Atlantic by totally qualified sailors. It’ll be rough I’m told In the plastic beneteau. But it will do it. Heck I’m already 67 so in a bit of a hurry with the learning . Thanks for sharing your experience and stats ! Inspiring 👍
You did an awesome job with all of your additional equipment - like inner stay, great anchor, solid self steering in Hydrovane that can be used as an emergency rudder if needed, very detailed approach to lines and blocks and probably much more. But a solid captain and crew - are the most valuable part of your boat-home and you did spectacular from everything I've seen so far. To be fair, I need to share my experience and view on an issue. I've participated in delivering a couple of Beneteaus and was able to notice an uncomfortable design feature of the boat - it is pounding while going upwind in moderate winds. However, deliveries are done on a schedule and you often forced to sail a shortest route within a time frame and often not a better one. With that in mind, knowing limitations of the design, it is easily avoidable by being flexible - like falling off and sailing comfortably and faster on a reach. Besides, nobody in their right mind would cruise upwind in moderate winds and choppy waves for so many reasons. I'm sure, that you and your boat will have a ton of success and fun while taking each other to any and many places within your comfort zone, and that zone expands with every passage you make. Fair winds and stay flexible
I noticed the pounding also when motoring a Beneteau 45 upwind into 30 knot winds. Less noticeable when sailing instead of motoring. I think it has a flat bottom, but when heeled it presents a rounded section to the water so less pounding.
Bravo both. It's not the boat, it's how you sail her. The upgrades are well considered, I particularly like the gybe proof double foresail and double pole for trade wind sailing. The fact that you're doing it, rather than talking about it should piss off the armchair captains; keep going!
I liked it! I am an experienced blue water sailor, and on my 3rd long term boat, and in this very position of converting or changing boats, and I want to convert :-) I do not plan to be in the narrow band of conditions/locations that would sink a plastic fantastic, but spare a blue water boat....it is not a very broad band.... A side note, you should mention that the Hydrovane is essentially a pre-rigged emergency rudder, which considerably offsets the risk associated with the spade. I consider this essential insurance and peace of mind in the blue water with my 'fin n spade', never mind the great crew member it is who sails better than anyone, eats nothing, never sleeps, and doesn't miss a windshift :-)
Thanks Paul. Yes certain conditions would warrant a BW boat but the majority of tropical cruising destinations would not. We are very happy with the Hydrovane and it has served us well on passage and provided good peace of mind in event of a rudder failure. Cheers
There is a modified attachment plate available for the Vang boom attachment. It is much more substantial and has more attachment points and was only 250 sterling. A very good investment!
PS to my post below. Every Sailboat I have had has been a Conventional Rig with Classic Mast and Main Sail with Lazy Jacks and Stack Packs and Hank on Sails, apart from my last boat which had a Furling Genoa on a basic Sloop with no inner forestry (I don’t like them tbh) Maximum fun was bouncing around on the foredeck changing Sails, loved it. They all can be made to work but Disability forced on me learn what a total pain in the backside to work with a Classic Mast really is, hence my Conversion to - after a serious look into them in Mast Furling, and the UV protection they can offer. Battens in them cause serious wear and tear, and seriously shorten the Life of already short lived Crosscut Dacron Sails and seriously reduce furling and unfurling reliability. So as a Cruiser looking for Reliability and a long Service Life Shape maintaining Sail, I started looking for a Sailmaker that would make me a Triradial Furling Battenless Main. It turned out to be quite a long search. Usually only getting the response “We Only Make Batten Ones” Eventually, I got a Yes, we’ve made a number of them, and if you need heavy duty Offshore specification, just tick the box on the order form - this from Precision Sails, and much to my surprise, they added, that the Triradial Construction recovers most of the power lost by having No Battens ! Wow. Now they do cost from about double a Crosscut Dacron Sail, but instead of being Stretched and buggered inside three years, with occasional Valeting, and re stitching, they can maintain their shape well for over 20 years- So cost per year of Service Life Plummets. Same goes for a Furling Triradial Genoa too as Reinforced Reefing Points to retain shape can be added. Partially Furl a Crosscut Dacron one, and the Sail Shape can be buggered within a few hours. So I’m thinking of about around a 140% Triradial Genoa, to have enough Sail room to properly fit three Reefing points, or a self tacking Jib plus a Furling Reaching Code Zero to fill in the Wind angle gaps plus a Furling Gennaker depending on Sailmaker advice. Since, other Sailmakers, including Quantum, Ullman, and others have started offering Battenless Furling Triradial Mainsails as well, so things look up. Bob. 👍⛵️🌟🌟🌟
Thanks for this boat tour. Lots of things that you have upgrated are really pragmatic especially when you cross oceans. Many things that I will retain on my side, sure !
Excellent job setting up the boat for offshore. You might consider mounting the EPIRB on the cockpit rail. If you get rolled over at night, or have a fire which can fill the boat with smoke in a matter of seconds, you can't get to the EPIRB and it can't float free. Speaking of getting rolled, a bluewater boat will have a higher ballast to weight ratio and a narrower hull so that it comes back upright even in a severe knock down. Hull shape and weight also give a bluewater boat a slower, more comfortable motion. Crew skill and attitude are the most important factors for passage making, as well as having the right equipment on board. You can sail just about anywhere with your setup, but a "true bluewater boat" will still make a difference in the worst of conditions.
Some very good informative points here, thanks for that. A good idea with the float free beacon one worth considering. We would also have to agree with the kinder motion on heavier ballasted vessels. Cheers
Hi guys, this is just the best video, lots of stuff that we are considering, was so interesting and learnt heaps. Really well done, stacks of relevant, initiative advise. Can’t thank you enough for the time you took and your generous in sharing it. So good to see and hear from thinking sailors. We watch so many TH-cam sailors and love getting tips this way but this video is at another level and so professional, love it. Thank you so much.
Hi Jen, thanks so much for this super kind comment. Glad you enjoyed our work and got some tips for your own projects. Makes it all worth it to receive positive feedback like this. Enjoy the book and fair winds! 🙏
Thanks for the video! It seems the answer is a definitely YES. As long as you invest on necessary upgrades. I specially like the changes to the rigging. Makes sailing life easier and definitely safer than the original set up.
Great video(s) you are making. Love to follow them. We (family of four) crossed the Pacific in a similar boat in 2018. Looking forward to watch the rest of your journey. Hope to see you Raroia/Kontiki Motu some time❤️ fair winds and following seas.
Well done guys. I had an Oceanis 40 such a great sailing boat but I only sailed up and down the Windward islands. The one thing I did not have was a water maker. Would not sail again without one. Enjoy and safe travels.
Thanks and good to hear. Great boat in the windwards, loves reaching in between the islands. True about the water maker we have learnt that the hard way for sure.
Hy guys, from my heart you look like a really true couple, all the best to you, knock on wood! I was 10days in quarantene so i had time to watch all yr episodes. Great job, for sure not another usual sailing couple. Fair Winds⛵ and cheers to the Beaver! 🥂
Great video I’m also a Kiwi and have the Oceanis 43, love the boat got caught in a southeast low off the Queensland East Coast and it preformed well but does need a 3rd reef.I have 20 sq meter Solent setup, great in heavy weather. I love the fact that they are a fast cruising boat couldn’t stand going slow cheers Jay.
Cheers for the feedback, much appreciated. That 3 extra feet would be very handy I’m sure but yeah we have had plenty of use on 3rd reef. Fair winds mate 🤙
It's about what one feels safety and comfort. Some may want the slow boat that has a higher comfort rating. Go for it be safe. Your yacht is beautiful and so livable
Hi! This is the first video I've seen from your TH-cam Channel. I'm very impress with all the details you have gone thru. Thank you for putting this out. Subscribing!
wow great work ! I have hardly seen an Oceanis 40 so well and thoughtfully equipped as you did (e.g. staysail). One thing is missing though....the answer of your question in the video title...I have just seen a video with the Kraken CEO and he defines the properties of a blue water sailboat as following: 1. integral keel 2. robust rudder system 3. no gas 4. thick hull 5. protected centre cockpit 6. sail handling from cockpit 7. foot braced somewhere when doing deck work 8. Keel stepped mast and heavy rig Probably your boat covers points 6 and 7. What are your thoughts on that ? Thanks for your answer and good luck for the upcoming passages !
Thankyou sir, glad you enjoyed. To answer above, firstly the Kraken boats look amazing and super tough, but unfortunately not in the budget range of anyone that sails a Beneteau. Although the ceo would be totally biased, I would totally agree with points 1, 2, 4 and 6 especially for a winter, go anywhere boat. Other points like gas and keel stepped mast seem a little off track to Bluewater relevance but interesting for thought. P.s although I love the thought of a strong skeg hung rudder, it’s not a very common on new builds anymore.. Thanks again
@@SailingBeaver well unfortunately the sea is not asking for the budget.... Maybe we can agree that you own a production boat very well equipped for bluewater cruising.... In any case all the best and enjoy your time at sea ....
Great video. this the first time we have viewed your work thanks for the insight into your work on your boat. we are in the market now. our issue with this type of boat is keeping the keel on and attempting to save the boat and every aboard if this happen in the deep blue. bolt on keels are the issue for us. you guys have done a great job on every thing above the water are there things that can be done blow the water line? again great video.
Thanks and glad to have you watching. The keel type is something worth considering and it’s difficult to say just on opinion how strong it is. Although we haven’t had issues in this department, like we mentioned in the video there is boats around that are better suited to heavy usage and primarily BW sailing. Fair winds.
I bought the e-book and skimmed it. It looks to be a concise and useful collection of what's probably been many hours of research for you. I'm learning as much as I can about sailing because that will probably be the next adventure when we have had a few years traveling in the bus. It'll be awhile... Likely when the nest is empty.
Cheers mate and thanks for the support. Sure was some research and work to put together throughout our journey. Hope it provides some value, good luck with your adventure 🤙
I think it was the late Patrick Childress (RIP) who, many years ago, sailed a Catalina 27 around the world after beefing it up for sailing the oceans. Three years ago another guy I saw on You Tube sailed a Catalina 27 from California to Hawaii. Sam Holmes made a similar crossing to Hawaii on a 23 FT Ranger about a year earlier. More recently a young Polish guy built a 16 FT plywood sailboat, purpose-designed for the passage, and sailed it across the Atlantic Ocean. Webb Chiles, among his many voyages, made it 3/4 of the way around the planet in an open (no cabin) sailboat, I think it was 18 or 20 FT. Famously in 1965, 16 year-old Robin Lee Graham sailed his 24 FT sloop named Dove around the world solo. James Baldwin has circumnavigated twice in his very simply outfitted 28 FT Pearson Triton. The first time around with no engine. And of course probably the most famous sailing couple, Lin and Larry Pardey circumnavigated their 24 FT home-built wooden Seraffyn, the "wrong way" around the Southern Ocean, also without an engine. These and many other stories are proof that you don't need a Westsail, Island Packet or Pacific Seacraft to make a safe passage across an ocean. What you need is experience, good judgement, selection of proper season, route and a good weather window, and appropriate rigging and equipment. If anything, your Beneteau is probably overkill the way you've prepared it, for trade winds passages.
Modern cruisers seem so much easier to live on, which unless you plan to spend all your time in the middle of an ocean is not a bad plan. I think the real issue is acknowledging and planning for the weaknesses of a modern cruiser.
I really like your saving water spray bottle. I have lived in desert country , water is most precious. Do you wear a knife on a belt when you are at sea
Hi! They are from the Swedish brand NOA. You can find all the contact details, prices and lots of other info in the new eBook we published alongside this video. Available from on our website www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser/
I much appreciate this video. I bought my Bavaria 40 / 200s2 in Slovenia, sailed through the Med to the Canaries, milk route into the Caribbean and from there to the Chesapeake where I live. I admit that the voyage was done somewhat blue-eyed and underequipped. As I now approach retirement age with the intent to go blue water again I am faced with the decision to keep and upgrade her or sell and get a "true" blue water yacht. My first question to you would be: How about keel and rudder. I assume your Beneteau has a spade and bolted on keel, same as my Bav. Do you have any concerns on either design and did you / do you consider upgrades / strengthening ? Secondly: With all the equipment you put on, what does your boat now weigh and does that effect performance? Lastly: How much money did you spend on all the upgrades? Handbreit.
Thanks for you comment and kind words. Sounds like a nice trip you made. It’s a tough decision and on round two we could face the same decision depending on our sailing climate. Some things are heavy such as jerry cans on deck and anchor chain and I’m sure it affects our performance but we do try to keep it light. The costs added up but over time we would have spent the same on a house. We have detailed every $ spent in the ebook that supplements this episode with a large section in the appendix www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser
Guys, please look up the various rallies crossing the Atlantic or Pacific or Australia upto Indo....they list the vessels, make, size ect....there in lies your answer.
Hi. one of the key issues with production boats is the attachment of the strongback to the floor. I yours glued only (not good) or is it glued and laminated (would be very good)? Regards from Switzerland. Silvano
Seem to be glued (plexus) only at the flanges in areas with less load and glued+laminated at high load areas of the main grid above keel and under mast. Cheers 🤙
Are we just gonna skip right over the topless Barbie? Haha great vid. As a recent owner of a 321 it’s neat to see what you all upgraded for blue water but also as a Great Lakes sailor, for added safety too!
Haha good spotting there. She’s our figurehead and is always mounted to the bow for our big offshore crossings. She was introduced in one of our vids in Las Palmas. 🤙
Haha good spotting there. She’s our figurehead and is always mounted to the bow for our big offshore crossings. She was introduced in one of our vids in Las Palmas. 🤙
I would install backing plates on the keel bolts, I believe the Beneteau has only washers. The next time your on the hard drop your keel for inspection.
If we were removing the bolts for some reason or making repairs in that area then that would be a good idea but otherwise not (can of worms). Your right though, kinda small backing plates.
I went cruising on a 57 foot strip planked fin keel spade rudder ocean racer. Everyone in those days said that you can't cruise on a fin keel spade rudder ocean racer. We ignored this and went cruising. It was the best choice because it sailed so well. Also, because it was a narrow racer it went to windward very well and performed fine in light winds.
Very interesting and we like this idea. Usually the race built boats are always built super stiff and strong which has an advantage over the average cruiser. Speed definitely has its safety factors in strong weather, thanks for this information. 🤙
Great job setting up your boat for cruising. I’m very interested in the solar arch mounted on the push pit.. is that a custom build or is it something available for purchase. If so, could you let me know where I can find? Cheers!
Thanks 🙏 it’s custom solar arch but very basic and just designed to fit our pushpit. We have all the photos, details, specs, costs and builder in our ebook that supplements this episode if your interested www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser
The companionway is my preferred spot to keep watch while offshore in our Beneteau Sense 50. I have resisted mounting another full array of instruments as each of my helm stations has full instruments and large plotters. Instead I use Android tablet as a plotter with AIS on a RAM mount along with a handheld remote for my autopilot. I'm still looking for a solution that would permit visualizing the radar over wifi. Cruising is 10% sailing and 90% at anchor. Beneteau has the "at-anchor" part very well designed and implemented. With experience, each sailor can slowly customize the 10% to their individual tastes. In essence creating a custom solution paid by sweat equity. Well done!
Thankyou sir. Your right it is good and protected at the companionway under the spray hood but it also must be nice with plotters at each helm. There is times when hand steering at night the could have been handy for us too. Good idea with the Ais on the iPad. Cheers 🤙
Thanks 🙏. Yeah we did a complete rudder overhaul and removed, inspected and replaced bearings in a previous episode. Also installed a Hydrovane self steering that can also act as an auxiliary rudder in case of failure to our main rudder.
Hi, thanks for sharing your boat set up. I also mounted a solar panel with NOA parts on the Railing but you found an Arch that you screwed to the railing as well. Would you be so kind to tell me where exactly you bought it? I am located in Germany and sailed to Norway last year so I hope you got it around here somewhere. If it is written in your book I will just buy it, if you can just let me know if you wrote down that information there. Thank you!
No worries. Yes it’s quite detailed in the book with the mounts and how it was made with measurements. We had it fabricated by a welder so should be quite easy to replicate.
Available here on our website… www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser/ Alternatively it’s a free download for our Patrons here.. www.patreon.com/sailingbeaver Thanks for your support 🙏
Kudos to both of you. I have read and written many marine technical documents during my 30+ year career as a Naval Architect. Your E-Book is very well done and a must-have for anyone planning to do blue water passages on a 40 to 46 foot Beneteau Oceanis of our vintage (2007 to 2012). These boats are very similar to each other in so many ways. It is now filed in my boat's e-library. Thanks for taking the time to publish it!
Thanks so much Randy we have spent quite some putting it all together so your feedback is much appreciated. Hope the book can provide you plenty of value for your journey on the Beneteau!
I still don't understand these stupid discussions going around the Web, who decides if a boat can be considered bluewater or not?
Expensive or cheaper?
Good or Bad?
Typology and specifications?
Why doesn't a specific body establish it according to strict criteria to which all manufacturers must adhere?
Who controls who and how?
According to what regulation?
And recognised by whom?
Do we still want to believe in the fairytale of the CE mark?
Which, by the way, I see it written everywhere even on my underpants!
So I don't think we need to be a naval architect to understand a very simple, if not obvious, concept that regardless of the builder, whether it is Beneteau or any other, there is a legislative and regulatory VOID in this sector that concerns not only the construction and design, choice of the materials and their origin, the absolute lack of supervision by any recognised third independent body from the design, the construction, up to the delivery of this type of boats, the lack of training and professional courses for the staff employed by these yards,
which would make the most stubborn navigator pale.
The truth is that these shipyards do what they want and their constructions have one and only one denominator the profit!
That last wave that appeared to be breaking just short of the stern is interesting. In similiar conditions (winds @ 40kn or so, big waves hard to tell how big) on other boats I've crewed, the skipper/owner usually furled the main and we sailed on trimmed jib alone, sometimes on a pole, sometimes a broad reach, and still kept our speed up with less strain on the rig. You all looked fairly comfortable here, was there at any time reason to think that a part of the rig or structure was under undue stress and liable to break (it's usually a shackle that holds the jib or genoa atvthe topnofthe mastvthat got torsion twisted and readtvto part when inspected later in port.)
Well you do have Germanischer Lloyd
People swim across the channel, row across the Atlantic and we applaud them. Do what you want. A 40ft Beneteau in comparison is a perfectly rational choice of boat, and I believe your upgrades are very well judged. A modern production boat has many advantages in design, equipment and cost. Ignore the naysayers - you're young and living the dream and your boat enables that, and I'm sure you love her for it. I say well done to both of you.
Thankyou Philip for the kind words. We do indeed love her and she’s looked after us rather well so far. 😃
People most certainly do not swim or row across oceans with their families! We applaud them for their daring and extreme behavior! Apples to oranges!
@@HuldraX. I think you're taking me slightly literally.....
I fully agree with Philip. I am owner of a similar production boat. I made almost the same upgrades you did. I am sailing all the Med and willing to cross Atlanic and doing Carribean with her. At the same time personally I am also planning to change boat before engaging into the Pacific. But it is a choice. And I would not trust more a similar budget old blue water cruiser just becouse she « was » built as a blue water one. At the end it is a matter of redundacy. And the speed of the boat relative to the budget (and whether forecsts) provide a mitigation to the luck of redundancy. And as a matter of fact many construction boats including Dufour andf Bavaria circumnavigated the world already. It looks to me you know the long and short of what you are doing. Enjoy it. Massimo
I still don't understand these stupid discussions going around the Web, who decides if a boat can be considered bluewater or not?
Expensive or cheaper?
Good or Bad?
Typology and specifications?
Why doesn't a specific body establish it according to strict criteria to which all manufacturers must adhere?
Who controls who and how?
According to what regulation?
And recognised by whom?
Do we still want to believe in the fairytale of the CE mark?
Which, by the way, I see it written everywhere even on my underpants!
So I don't think we need to be a naval architect to understand a very simple, if not obvious, concept that regardless of the builder, whether it is Beneteau or any other, there is a legislative and regulatory VOID in this sector that concerns not only the construction and design, choice of the materials and their origin, the absolute lack of supervision by any recognised third independent body from the design, the construction, up to the delivery of this type of boats, the lack of training and professional courses for the staff employed by these yards,
which would make the most stubborn navigator pale.
The truth is that these shipyards do what they want and their constructions have one and only one denominator the profit!
the most important piece of equipment is the brains aboard. you are top of the line in that department! safe travels!
Thoughtful and thorough preps, and I can't fault your basic premise: If you are thoughtful about the production boat you choose for trade wind ocean crossings, and then you strengthen its abilities to match the demands of long distance cruising, you should have no regrets. Excellent presentation - congratulations!
Great video, straight to the point, no BS. Really like the way you’ve set up the boat, especially the rig. Excellent organization of gear and equipment. 👍🏻
Thank you sir much appreciated. Fair winds.
Nice job of presenting the information. We have an Oceanis 50 and have put 45,000nm under our keel in the past five years. We can second the statement that with proper planning the Beneteau is an awesome offshore cruiser. In addition, even when you miss time a passage or you get smacked by a storm on a longer passage, the boat really is up for the challenge. We've experienced 6 to 8m seas and sustained 40 and 50 knot winds on a few memorable occasions and whilst we wouldn't wish to repeat, the boat handled it well. Do note that the one big difference in our view between the Beneteau, say and Oyster, Hylas or Southerly will be ride comfort. Oh, and price. Lastly, would agree that a protected rudder would be more desirable but that still doesn't stop the thousands of Beneteaus we see out here. You've done a nice job of minimizing the risk with your Hydrovane. Great comments on this one, fun to read!
Your book is an absolutely fantastic resource. For only $10 it’s a steal and a no-brainer. Many thanks 🙏 to you for doing this work. Very very helpful.
Thanks so much for the kind feedback and we’re super stoked it can provide you some good value! Tusen takk 🤙
Jeez! I’m no expert but I’d go anywhere with you guys!
I think a lot of people could use this video as an example of how to impart wisdom with just the right amount of detail in an articulate no nonsense but friendly way .
Its sort of ok ploughing through the mumblings and meanderings of happy folk with the details of their passion project but this is so different and a joy to watch .
Not to mention what an excellent job youve done with the boat !
I feel you two have rare skills.
Thank you so much
Thank you kindly sir, glad you can appreciate the video.
Great vid, well put together and thought out. The main question ‘is this boat good enough for ocean crossings’ is fairly simple to answer. Every boat has somewhere a builder’s data plate, on this plate you’ll find reference to a ‘design category’ - A, B, C or D.
Category A is ‘Ocean’ - designed to be capable and self sufficient in wind that may exceed force 8 and wave heights in excess of 4m.
Obviously there are boats out there in category B (offshore), C (inshore) and D (sheltered waters) that are taken across oceans but consider the implications of your insurance not paying out should something happen and you have to bail into the life raft with your beacon.
FYI Oceanis 40 is Class A, as are most boats above 30 ft.
Thankyou sir, correct you are. Glad you enjoyed🤙
Hi Sam & Nicole
Just watched arguably one of the most informative videos for anyone with an interest in crossing an ocean in a production boat. Your openess with information is to be applauded.
As you know we are in the process of planning our our journey and this
video has given a lot of pointers and food for thought for us to ponder on.
Thank you again.
Keep safe.
Thanks for the kind comment and glad you got some good value from the vid. No worries at all and all the best with your planning to head offshore. Take care and fair winds 🤙
I love your videos, they have a great style and tone - please keep it up. Having discovered your channel this week I have just binge watched it all. We have an Oceanis 361 from 2003 which we purchased this year - our plan is to build experience and confidence sailing the West Coast of Scotland and North of Ireland for the next few years and then when we retire we hope to buy a slightly bigger boat - 40/45ft and see where life takes us ( somewhere warmer...).
The Oceanis range of boats are certainly blue water capable with a few upgrades and careful planning. Fair winds and looking forward to seeing the rest of your adventure. 👍. Just downloaded your ebook too 👍
Thanks so much for your support! Much appreciated 🙏. I’m sure you’ll build experience pretty quick on the West coast of Scotland. Good luck on your journey and fair winds 🤙
The sheeting angles can make a huge difference with rolling. Use tweakers and adjust the raveller to make it as comfortable as possible. Then sometimes a slow roll in a swell can improve performance greatly. Its called ooching.
The Quartermaster*
Very impressive and well thought out! One thing that we carried on our Beneteau 40 c/c was a Luke 3pc. 80lb, fisherman storm anchor. This saved tons of space when broken down and could be put together with just
3 large locking pins. 100 ft of three eights triple strength chain and 300 ft, of three quarters triple braid nylon rode. When things looked hairy it was nice to know it was on board! Best wishes and safe travels!
I hope I'm correct with your names, Sam and Nicole! We do share the same boat manufacturer Beneteau. My wife and I purposely bought our 40 foot c/c for live aboard cruising. We never once felt that our boat was not a capable blue water cruising yacht! Your videos are professionally done with a great mix of actually sailing in a lot of different conditions and taking us along seeing the fantastic Islands and friendly inhabitants! Best wishes ❤️ to a beautiful couple!
Steve and Paula
S/V Adios
Great boat. Our friend Mark is 1.5 times around the planet on his Beneteau 393. Stay sail/cutter rig is probably the main 'bluewater' safety feature, as is your attention to detail and wear items.
Have a Dufour 470 and have been cataloging many of the same tasks to complete to go “blue water”. You two have lived it in a typical production boat and made it work. Thank you for putting all your experience into a e-book reference that is well worth the price of a couple beers.
Thanks for the kind words and good luck on your travels. ⛵️🤙
Just watched your video regarding your systems on your boat. I was very impressed with your thoroughness with each system, it is very apparent you worked through each system completely. Kudos, a lot of people think that you just get on a boat and go. Just take a look at sailing gbu
Thank you sir appreciate the feedback! Take care and fair winds 🤙
Sam Holmes sailing / wind hippie sailing both boats crossing oceans. 50 years ago there was no iridium go or windie apps, when you had to be be prepared for storms/waves. Pick your weather window and have your batteries ready.
Hello .... big congratulations !!!! It is one of the best videos I have seen, not only addressing the situation about production sailboats such as "blue waters", but also because of the order and logic posed in front of each fraction required to sail safely on the high seas or in a lagoon. .
I am preparing a Jeanneau 469 with the same concepts and I felt very pleased and reflected with what they have done.
Only that I will go against the traffic, from Chile to Europe, including Norway in some of my routes
Wow thanks so much for your words! 🙏 super glad you enjoyed the video and had some value to take away! Sounds like a great voyage you have planned in a nice big Jeanneau, best of luck and fair winds!
The paddle speedsensor should be taken out after the trip and replaced with the dummy. Second I would place the wooden bungs next to the thruhulls so in case they are already there.
thnaks again for this video that I watched for the second time (at least). I bought your 2 e-book, to thank for those explaination. My goal is to cross the atlantic (East->West) the next year...
I met a guy in Fiji who hollowed out a tree built a mast in peru and sailed across the Pacific. And a guy who bought a boat for a dollar off Craigslist on a different trip to Fiji. you can do it in all almost anything. On a production boat I would modify the rudder tube and attachment etc.& probably not heading into high latitudes
A) there are more beneteaus on the ocean than all other brands combined, and more crossing oceans than any other single brand.
B) you can cross in anything if you watch the weather window properly.
pretty sure someone swam semi assisted across an ocean
That is the cleanest and most organized boat! Jeesh!!
Thankyou kind sir 👌
God how awful those "Internet forums" are!!!! They've never crossed a bathtub,let alone the oceans!!! Beneteau and Jeaneau are fantastic brands and they absolutely get the job done!!!! Piss on them and you two have done a fantastic job...keep it up!!!!
Everyone has to feel comfortable with their decisions as they head out. For me, I'm thankful for my full-keel, heavy displacement double ender. Every bit of it is built like a tank. No keel bolts. No exposed rudder. It's been around the world once and we're taking it around again.
Great job! Added to my cruising guidelines, thank you for providing this kind of information.
Good stuff again team, nice clean video with plenty of good content.
Cheers mate, glad you enjoyed 🙏
There is nothing wrong with a Beneteau. I owned a 461 and it was a solid boat, quite fast and was well furnished. I had it modified from a four cabin to a three cabin to make it more livable to me. I agree with your sail modifications, it needs a self tacking jib and a third reef in the main. I had the teak decks refurbished and replaced the foredeck to give it a new life. The exhaust elbow replacement is a must. Mine was almost completely blocked. I replaced all the hoses, throttle cable, standing and running rigging, the guide wires and batteries to increase the storage to 560ah. You can never have enough! The fin keel needed some work due to corrosion. You can argue all day long about a blue water boat and I agree a steel or aluminum keel is safest, particularly with a full length keel but they are hard to maneuver backwards and slow. Amels have a fin keel and so do lots of other boats costing a lot more money and most boats today are made of fiberglass. I have heard you tubers sneer about “plastic fantastic” boats when that is exactly what their boat is. Ignore the detractors, you have a solid boat which will serve you well.
Agreed and thanks for your insight mate. All good points here and the 461 sounds like a nice boat. Fair winds 🤙
We crossed the atlantic 3 years ago on our B43 which is quite similar to your boat. We made this first crossing with the boat as we bought it. We are now preparing to leave next summer for a 5 year trip and replaced, modified, reinforced a lot of stuff. New sails, purpose made (reinforced). New sprayhood and bimini with 400 watt semi flexible pv panels on the bimini. Lithium batteries and modification of alternator charging to protect alternator. New motormounts, replaced all standing rigging with dieform. Installed watermaker, …. And the list goes on and on. With our experience i could maybe make some small additions to your ebook
Good job Francis, some great boat jobs ticked off the list especially the lithiums and watermaker. If your interested the ebook can be downloaded at www.sailingbeaver.com/shop/
It doesn’t sound like you guys are new to this, it sounds like an extensive amount of research has been made here, Although many experts say these boats are not recommended for blue water, It’s awesome to see you guys getting it done, We’ll done,
From another kiwi, an excellent video. I have had 4 Beneteau's and loved them all. Your boat is an excellent example. Congratulations.
I hope so because I’d better stop using it if it isn’t .
The little plate inside the boat says it is too .
Lucky for me it’s my first sailboat and I know no better.
38.1 Oceanis yr 2000
I’ve got about ten miles solo so far
Maybe 200 taught .
I’m a kitesurfer and this will be the biggest kiteboard I’ve ever been on 😂
Listen I been told it’s fine to use to cross Atlantic by totally qualified sailors.
It’ll be rough I’m told
In the plastic beneteau. But it will do it. Heck I’m already 67 so in a bit of a hurry with the learning .
Thanks for sharing your experience and stats !
Inspiring 👍
Well done Sam & Nicole, super informative video. I will need to go and buy a copy of your ebook too.
Cheers Michael, that’s great to hear! Enjoy the book🤙🏼
You did an awesome job with all of your additional equipment - like inner stay, great anchor, solid self steering in Hydrovane that can be used as an emergency rudder if needed, very detailed approach to lines and blocks and probably much more. But a solid captain and crew - are the most valuable part of your boat-home and you did spectacular from everything I've seen so far. To be fair, I need to share my experience and view on an issue. I've participated in delivering a couple of Beneteaus and was able to notice an uncomfortable design feature of the boat - it is pounding while going upwind in moderate winds. However, deliveries are done on a schedule and you often forced to sail a shortest route within a time frame and often not a better one. With that in mind, knowing limitations of the design, it is easily avoidable by being flexible - like falling off and sailing comfortably and faster on a reach. Besides, nobody in their right mind would cruise upwind in moderate winds and choppy waves for so many reasons. I'm sure, that you and your boat will have a ton of success and fun while taking each other to any and many places within your comfort zone, and that zone expands with every passage you make. Fair winds and stay flexible
I noticed the pounding also when motoring a Beneteau 45 upwind into 30 knot winds. Less noticeable when sailing instead of motoring. I think it has a flat bottom, but when heeled it presents a rounded section to the water so less pounding.
Bravo both. It's not the boat, it's how you sail her. The upgrades are well considered, I particularly like the gybe proof double foresail and double pole for trade wind sailing. The fact that you're doing it, rather than talking about it should piss off the armchair captains; keep going!
True that! The upgrades has worked well for us and we are pretty happy with them! Cheers for tuning in mate
I liked it!
I am an experienced blue water sailor, and on my 3rd long term boat, and in this very position of converting or changing boats, and I want to convert :-)
I do not plan to be in the narrow band of conditions/locations that would sink a plastic fantastic, but spare a blue water boat....it is not a very broad band....
A side note, you should mention that the Hydrovane is essentially a pre-rigged emergency rudder, which considerably offsets the risk associated with the spade. I consider this essential insurance and peace of mind in the blue water with my 'fin n spade', never mind the great crew member it is who sails better than anyone, eats nothing, never sleeps, and doesn't miss a windshift :-)
Thanks Paul. Yes certain conditions would warrant a BW boat but the majority of tropical cruising destinations would not. We are very happy with the Hydrovane and it has served us well on passage and provided good peace of mind in event of a rudder failure. Cheers
I saw one in 5-6 m seas and it did excellent! From Africa to the Caribbean.
There is a modified attachment plate available for the Vang boom attachment. It is much more substantial and has more attachment points and was only 250 sterling. A very good investment!
For sure, the standard zspars vang is pretty shitty and we upgraded this to a solid custom plate. 🤙
PS to my post below. Every Sailboat I have had has been a Conventional Rig with Classic Mast and Main Sail with Lazy Jacks and Stack Packs and Hank on Sails, apart from my last boat which had a Furling Genoa on a basic Sloop with no inner forestry (I don’t like them tbh) Maximum fun was bouncing around on the foredeck changing Sails, loved it. They all can be made to work but Disability forced on me learn what a total pain in the backside to work with a Classic Mast really is, hence my Conversion to - after a serious look into them in Mast Furling, and the UV protection they can offer. Battens in them cause serious wear and tear, and seriously shorten the Life of already short lived Crosscut Dacron Sails and seriously reduce furling and unfurling reliability. So as a Cruiser looking for Reliability and a long Service Life Shape maintaining Sail, I started looking for a Sailmaker that would make me a Triradial Furling Battenless Main. It turned out to be quite a long search. Usually only getting the response “We Only Make Batten Ones” Eventually, I got a Yes, we’ve made a number of them, and if you need heavy duty Offshore specification, just tick the box on the order form - this from Precision Sails, and much to my surprise, they added, that the Triradial Construction recovers most of the power lost by having No Battens ! Wow. Now they do cost from about double a Crosscut Dacron Sail, but instead of being Stretched and buggered inside three years, with occasional Valeting, and re stitching, they can maintain their shape well for over 20 years- So cost per year of Service Life Plummets. Same goes for a Furling Triradial Genoa too as Reinforced Reefing Points to retain shape can be added. Partially Furl a Crosscut Dacron one, and the Sail Shape can be buggered within a few hours. So I’m thinking of about around a 140% Triradial Genoa, to have enough Sail room to properly fit three Reefing points, or a self tacking Jib plus a Furling Reaching Code Zero to fill in the Wind angle gaps plus a Furling Gennaker depending on Sailmaker advice. Since, other Sailmakers, including Quantum, Ullman, and others have started offering Battenless Furling Triradial Mainsails as well, so things look up. Bob. 👍⛵️🌟🌟🌟
Thanks for this boat tour. Lots of things that you have upgrated are really pragmatic especially when you cross oceans. Many things that I will retain on my side, sure !
Your welcome Christophe, glad you got some value from it! Cheers and fair winds
You need some overboard venting in your battery bay.
Your boat is DIALD. Well done. I love it and would cross oceans with you guys all day long 👍🏻.
Absolutely 100% yes. Alright, now I'll watch the video! ;)
That’s the spirit. Yew 🤙
Really liked this video .Full of knowledge built from experience.Saved it to my boat library for future reference 👍👍.
Subscribed as well
Thanks so much, appreciate the kind words and glad to make the library! Welcome aboard and take care.
Excellent job setting up the boat for offshore. You might consider mounting the EPIRB on the cockpit rail. If you get rolled over at night, or have a fire which can fill the boat with smoke in a matter of seconds, you can't get to the EPIRB and it can't float free. Speaking of getting rolled, a bluewater boat will have a higher ballast to weight ratio and a narrower hull so that it comes back upright even in a severe knock down. Hull shape and weight also give a bluewater boat a slower, more comfortable motion. Crew skill and attitude are the most important factors for passage making, as well as having the right equipment on board. You can sail just about anywhere with your setup, but a "true bluewater boat" will still make a difference in the worst of conditions.
Some very good informative points here, thanks for that. A good idea with the float free beacon one worth considering. We would also have to agree with the kinder motion on heavier ballasted vessels. Cheers
Hi guys, this is just the best video, lots of stuff that we are considering, was so interesting and learnt heaps. Really well done, stacks of relevant, initiative advise. Can’t thank you enough for the time you took and your generous in sharing it. So good to see and hear from thinking sailors. We watch so many TH-cam sailors and love getting tips this way but this video is at another level and so professional, love it. Thank you so much.
Hi Jen, thanks so much for this super kind comment. Glad you enjoyed our work and got some tips for your own projects. Makes it all worth it to receive positive feedback like this. Enjoy the book and fair winds! 🙏
First time viewer and very pleased with your presentation and your provisions for safety. I'll like and subscribe, too. Safe travels.
Thanks for the video! It seems the answer is a definitely YES. As long as you invest on necessary upgrades. I specially like the changes to the rigging. Makes sailing life easier and definitely safer than the original set up.
No worries glad you enjoyed 🙏. The right upgrades make a big difference and thanks for your vote of confidence. Fair winds.
Great video(s) you are making. Love to follow them. We (family of four) crossed the Pacific in a similar boat in 2018. Looking forward to watch the rest of your journey. Hope to see you Raroia/Kontiki Motu some time❤️ fair winds and following seas.
Thanks for you kind words and all the best to you and the family! Can’t wait to share some more of our journey. 🤙
Well done guys. I had an Oceanis 40 such a great sailing boat but I only sailed up and down the Windward islands. The one thing I did not have was a water maker. Would not sail again without one. Enjoy and safe travels.
Thanks and good to hear. Great boat in the windwards, loves reaching in between the islands. True about the water maker we have learnt that the hard way for sure.
Hy guys, from my heart you look like a really true couple, all the best to you, knock on wood! I was 10days in quarantene so i had time to watch all yr episodes. Great job, for sure not another usual sailing couple. Fair Winds⛵ and cheers to the Beaver! 🥂
Thank you sir that’s very kind. Glad we could keep you occupied in your Qtime. Stay tuned for our pacific vids this week, take care. 🤙
Great information! Making a list of the modifications I need to do
And now you got Najad...tells heaps;)
Great video I’m also a Kiwi and have the Oceanis 43, love the boat got caught in a southeast low off the Queensland East Coast and it preformed well but does need a 3rd reef.I have 20 sq meter Solent setup, great in heavy weather. I love the fact that they are a fast cruising boat couldn’t stand going slow cheers Jay.
Cheers for the feedback, much appreciated. That 3 extra feet would be very handy I’m sure but yeah we have had plenty of use on 3rd reef. Fair winds mate 🤙
It's about what one feels safety and comfort. Some may want the slow boat that has a higher comfort rating. Go for it be safe. Your yacht is beautiful and so livable
Yeah good point, a little extra comfort goes along way for the longer crossing. Thanks, we love her!
Great to hear from you both. Great blog. Say safe and our prayers are with you crossing the pacific. Amazing experience, best of care.xx
Thanks so much guys! Take care and fair winds 🙏
1.01 of big boy ocean boats is - Does it have a bolt-on keel???
Hi! This is the first video I've seen from your TH-cam Channel. I'm very impress with all the details you have gone thru. Thank you for putting this out. Subscribing!
Thanks so much and welcome aboard sir! 🤙
wow great work ! I have hardly seen an Oceanis 40 so well and thoughtfully equipped as you did (e.g. staysail). One thing is missing though....the answer of your question in the video title...I have just seen a video with the Kraken CEO and he defines the properties of a blue water sailboat as following:
1. integral keel
2. robust rudder system
3. no gas
4. thick hull
5. protected centre cockpit
6. sail handling from cockpit
7. foot braced somewhere when doing deck work
8. Keel stepped mast and heavy rig
Probably your boat covers points 6 and 7. What are your thoughts on that ? Thanks for your answer and good luck for the upcoming passages !
Thankyou sir, glad you enjoyed.
To answer above, firstly the Kraken boats look amazing and super tough, but unfortunately not in the budget range of anyone that sails a Beneteau.
Although the ceo would be totally biased, I would totally agree with points 1, 2, 4 and 6 especially for a winter, go anywhere boat. Other points like gas and keel stepped mast seem a little off track to Bluewater relevance but interesting for thought.
P.s although I love the thought of a strong skeg hung rudder, it’s not a very common on new builds anymore..
Thanks again
@@SailingBeaver well unfortunately the sea is not asking for the budget.... Maybe we can agree that you own a production boat very well equipped for bluewater cruising.... In any case all the best and enjoy your time at sea ....
That’s a good point! Thankyou kindly, fair winds 🙏
Excellent video and prep work. Time to go!!
We sailed our 2017 Oceanis 35 from Florida to New Zealand
That sounds lovely, trust you had a good trip. 🤙
Fabulous video and very informative . Living the dream.
Glad you enjoyed it
Tidy and clean boat, nice video!
Great taste in music in this video. Great content. Well done!
Thankyou kindly mate 🙏
Very well thought out improvements and attention to crucial components for Bluewater sailing and cruising. Thanks for the videos. Fair winds.
No worries. Glad you enjoyed. Fair winds 🤘
Great video, very descriptive and informative. Thank you.
Great video. this the first time we have viewed your work thanks for the insight into your work on your boat. we are in the market now. our issue with this type of boat is keeping the keel on and attempting to save the boat and every aboard if this happen in the deep blue. bolt on keels are the issue for us. you guys have done a great job on every thing above the water are there things that can be done blow the water line? again great video.
Thanks and glad to have you watching. The keel type is something worth considering and it’s difficult to say just on opinion how strong it is. Although we haven’t had issues in this department, like we mentioned in the video there is boats around that are better suited to heavy usage and primarily BW sailing. Fair winds.
Outstanding and insightful job. Bought the book too! Thanks for sharing.
Thanks so much for the support John and hope it provides you some value. Glad to have you onboard 🤙
I bought the e-book and skimmed it. It looks to be a concise and useful collection of what's probably been many hours of research for you. I'm learning as much as I can about sailing because that will probably be the next adventure when we have had a few years traveling in the bus. It'll be awhile... Likely when the nest is empty.
Cheers mate and thanks for the support. Sure was some research and work to put together throughout our journey. Hope it provides some value, good luck with your adventure 🤙
How much weight do you think your carrying when fully loaded, and thoughts of effecting the boats AVS.
I think it was the late Patrick Childress (RIP) who, many years ago, sailed a Catalina 27 around the world after beefing it up for sailing the oceans. Three years ago another guy I saw on You Tube sailed a Catalina 27 from California to Hawaii. Sam Holmes made a similar crossing to Hawaii on a 23 FT Ranger about a year earlier. More recently a young Polish guy built a 16 FT plywood sailboat, purpose-designed for the passage, and sailed it across the Atlantic Ocean. Webb Chiles, among his many voyages, made it 3/4 of the way around the planet in an open (no cabin) sailboat, I think it was 18 or 20 FT. Famously in 1965, 16 year-old Robin Lee Graham sailed his 24 FT sloop named Dove around the world solo. James Baldwin has circumnavigated twice in his very simply outfitted 28 FT Pearson Triton. The first time around with no engine. And of course probably the most famous sailing couple, Lin and Larry Pardey circumnavigated their 24 FT home-built wooden Seraffyn, the "wrong way" around the Southern Ocean, also without an engine.
These and many other stories are proof that you don't need a Westsail, Island Packet or Pacific Seacraft to make a safe passage across an ocean. What you need is experience, good judgement, selection of proper season, route and a good weather window, and appropriate rigging and equipment. If anything, your Beneteau is probably overkill the way you've prepared it, for trade winds passages.
Robin acquired Dove 2... S. Africa? and it was a bit longer... to finish his 5 year journey
Great videos! Just curious, why Sailing Beaver?
It is named after a mate
th-cam.com/video/dSZYA9xuDhs/w-d-xo.html
Modern cruisers seem so much easier to live on, which unless you plan to spend all your time in the middle of an ocean is not a bad plan. I think the real issue is acknowledging and planning for the weaknesses of a modern cruiser.
Yeah fair call on that and totally agree. The livability is quite good for the size of the boat and very comfortable for a couple.
Awesome descriptions. Lovely life. Keep living it
Great thanks for watching 🤙 fair winds.
A really great overview of all of the important systems. Thank you for putting this together.
Thanks and appreciate your kind words! 🤙
Wonderful work. Looking forward to reading more in your ebook. Much of what you’ve shown seems transferable to my B411.
Salute!
Thanks 🙏. Yes correct, most of the specific upgrades would transfer to any similar production boat really. Enjoy the book and fair winds!
You all good to go.
great video! even if it was horrible I would still watch just to here you talk ;)
Huh, who? What?
@@SailingBeaver haha sorry! Was just implying you have a very cute accent.
But love your guys videos.
Can’t wait to watch the pacific videos.
Be safe!
Hahah cheers mate!
I really like your saving water spray bottle. I have lived in desert country , water is most precious. Do you wear a knife on a belt when you are at sea
Thankyou it surely is. Yes! Just like crocodile Dundee 🐊🔪
great explanation easy well structured well done. thank you . Klaus
Thanks so much. Fair winds Klaus 🤙
Where did you get the brackets for the solar panels?
Hi! They are from the Swedish brand NOA. You can find all the contact details, prices and lots of other info in the new eBook we published alongside this video. Available from on our website www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser/
Beautiful, enjoy.
I much appreciate this video. I bought my Bavaria 40 / 200s2 in Slovenia, sailed through the Med to the Canaries, milk route into the Caribbean and from there to the Chesapeake where I live. I admit that the voyage was done somewhat blue-eyed and underequipped. As I now approach retirement age with the intent to go blue water again I am faced with the decision to keep and upgrade her or sell and get a "true" blue water yacht.
My first question to you would be: How about keel and rudder. I assume your Beneteau has a spade and bolted on keel, same as my Bav. Do you have any concerns on either design and did you / do you consider upgrades / strengthening ?
Secondly: With all the equipment you put on, what does your boat now weigh and does that effect performance?
Lastly: How much money did you spend on all the upgrades?
Handbreit.
Thanks for you comment and kind words. Sounds like a nice trip you made. It’s a tough decision and on round two we could face the same decision depending on our sailing climate. Some things are heavy such as jerry cans on deck and anchor chain and I’m sure it affects our performance but we do try to keep it light. The costs added up but over time we would have spent the same on a house. We have detailed every $ spent in the ebook that supplements this episode with a large section in the appendix www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser
Guys, please look up the various rallies crossing the Atlantic or Pacific or Australia upto Indo....they list the vessels, make, size
ect....there in lies your answer.
Hi. one of the key issues with production boats is the attachment of the strongback to the floor. I yours glued only (not good) or is it glued and laminated (would be very good)? Regards from Switzerland. Silvano
Seem to be glued (plexus) only at the flanges in areas with less load and glued+laminated at high load areas of the main grid above keel and under mast. Cheers 🤙
@@SailingBeaver 99% of grid failures are from heavy grounding (Except for early Bavaria's,& penny washers for there keelbolts)
The BENETEAU also has washers on the keel bolts. I would like to see backing plates installed.
@@SailingBeaver ... and laminated deck to hull flange would be welcome, too.
Are we just gonna skip right over the topless Barbie? Haha great vid. As a recent owner of a 321 it’s neat to see what you all upgraded for blue water but also as a Great Lakes sailor, for added safety too!
Haha good spotting there. She’s our figurehead and is always mounted to the bow for our big offshore crossings. She was introduced in one of our vids in Las Palmas. 🤙
Haha good spotting there. She’s our figurehead and is always mounted to the bow for our big offshore crossings. She was introduced in one of our vids in Las Palmas. 🤙
Great information, cheers
I would install backing plates on the keel bolts, I believe the Beneteau has only washers. The next time your on the hard drop your keel for inspection.
If we were removing the bolts for some reason or making repairs in that area then that would be a good idea but otherwise not (can of worms). Your right though, kinda small backing plates.
I went cruising on a 57 foot strip planked fin keel spade rudder ocean racer. Everyone in those days said that you can't cruise on a fin keel spade rudder ocean racer. We ignored this and went cruising. It was the best choice because it sailed so well. Also, because it was a narrow racer it went to windward very well and performed fine in light winds.
Very interesting and we like this idea. Usually the race built boats are always built super stiff and strong which has an advantage over the average cruiser. Speed definitely has its safety factors in strong weather, thanks for this information. 🤙
Great stuff very valuable info👍👍
Thanks mate enjoy 🤙
How much is all data for the navigation instruments cost you a month?
Great job setting up your boat for cruising. I’m very interested in the solar arch mounted on the push pit.. is that a custom build or is it something available for purchase. If so, could you let me know where I can find? Cheers!
Thanks 🙏 it’s custom solar arch but very basic and just designed to fit our pushpit. We have all the photos, details, specs, costs and builder in our ebook that supplements this episode if your interested www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser
I just went to purchase the e-book, but I need to verify if I can read it on an Android tablet? thanks!
It’s downloaded in a pdf format so will display on all tablets and devices. Enjoy the book! 😊
Love your video's!
Cheers and glad you enjoy 🤙
The companionway is my preferred spot to keep watch while offshore in our Beneteau Sense 50. I have resisted mounting another full array of instruments as each of my helm stations has full instruments and large plotters. Instead I use Android tablet as a plotter with AIS on a RAM mount along with a handheld remote for my autopilot. I'm still looking for a solution that would permit visualizing the radar over wifi.
Cruising is 10% sailing and 90% at anchor. Beneteau has the "at-anchor" part very well designed and implemented. With experience, each sailor can slowly customize the 10% to their individual tastes. In essence creating a custom solution paid by sweat equity. Well done!
Thankyou sir. Your right it is good and protected at the companionway under the spray hood but it also must be nice with plotters at each helm. There is times when hand steering at night the could have been handy for us too. Good idea with the Ais on the iPad. Cheers 🤙
That’s a nice boat almost sold mine for enough to buy someone else’s similar to that one
RUDDER? HiGuys! Good work on the boat and on the video as well! What I am curious about is: Did you do anything with rudder? Some guard or backup?
Thanks 🙏. Yeah we did a complete rudder overhaul and removed, inspected and replaced bearings in a previous episode. Also installed a Hydrovane self steering that can also act as an auxiliary rudder in case of failure to our main rudder.
Hi, thanks for sharing your boat set up. I also mounted a solar panel with NOA parts on the Railing but you found an Arch that you screwed to the railing as well. Would you be so kind to tell me where exactly you bought it? I am located in Germany and sailed to Norway last year so I hope you got it around here somewhere. If it is written in your book I will just buy it, if you can just let me know if you wrote down that information there. Thank you!
No worries. Yes it’s quite detailed in the book with the mounts and how it was made with measurements. We had it fabricated by a welder so should be quite easy to replicate.
@@SailingBeaver Thanks man! Will have a look into your book.
I couldn't find your ebook.......Please send the best form to buy this.
Thank´s
Available here on our website… www.sailingbeaver.com/product/bluewatercruiser/
Alternatively it’s a free download for our Patrons here.. www.patreon.com/sailingbeaver
Thanks for your support 🙏
@@SailingBeaver Easy..... living now in my computer. Best regards
Looks like a great setup! Thanks
Cheers 🙏