The Beneteau 361 is a well-regarded sailing vessel designed for cruising and performance. Introduced in the late 1990s, this model reflects Beneteau’s commitment to quality and innovation in the world of sailing yachts. With its combination of spacious interior, solid construction, and dependable performance, the Beneteau 361 has gained popularity among both novice and experienced sailors seeking a versatile cruising sailboat.
Design and Construction
The Beneteau 361 features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, offering enhanced stability and control. Designed by the renowned Berret-Racoupeau team, the hull shape optimizes speed and maneuverability, making it suitable for various sailing conditions. With an overall length of 36.42 feet and a beam of 12.50 feet, the vessel maintains a balanced proportion, ensuring good sailing performance. The construction utilizes fiberglass (FG), providing a robust and durable structure. The quality of materials and craftsmanship is evident in the sleek lines and attention to detail, making the Beneteau 361 an attractive option for any sailor.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Beneteau 361 holds its own in a competitive sailing market. Its masthead sloop rigging allows for an effective sail plan, contributing to its speed and agility on the water. The sail area-to-displacement ratio of 16.89 indicates that this vessel can achieve a good balance between speed and stability. With a hull speed of approximately 7.47 knots, the 361 is capable of efficient cruising as well as thrilling day sails. Whether you are navigating in light winds or handling more robust conditions, the design and engineering of the Beneteau 361 ensure responsive and reliable performance.
Comfort and Accommodations
One of the standout features of the Beneteau 361 is its spacious and thoughtfully designed interior. The vessel boasts a comfortable living space with a well-equipped galley, ample storage, and generous headroom of 6.60 feet. With accommodations for four to six people, the layout typically includes two private cabins and a convertible saloon, allowing for both privacy and social interaction. The head features a shower and is conveniently located, ensuring ease of use for crew members. The Beneteau 361 is perfect for weekend getaways or extended cruising, offering a cozy atmosphere that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
Safety and Practicality
Safety is a critical aspect of any sailing vessel, and the Beneteau 361 is no exception. The design incorporates multiple safety features, such as a well-placed cockpit that provides easy access to the helm while keeping crew members secure. The boat’s displacement and ballast ratios contribute to its stability, ensuring that it remains upright even in choppy waters. Additionally, the vessel is equipped with practical sailing features, such as a well-organized deck layout, which makes sailing and maneuvering easier for the crew. The combination of safety and practicality makes the Beneteau 361 a reliable choice for both experienced sailors and those new to the cruising lifestyle.
Conclusion
In summary, the Beneteau 361 offers a compelling mix of performance, comfort, and safety. Its well-thought-out design, combined with quality construction, ensures that it can handle various sailing conditions while providing a comfortable living environment. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a long voyage, the Beneteau 361 is equipped to meet the demands of modern cruising. With its positive reputation in the sailing community, it stands as an excellent choice for anyone looking to invest in a capable and reliable sailboat.
Specifications
| Hull Type | Fin w/bulb & spade rudder |
|---|---|
| Rigging Type | Masthead Sloop |
| LOA | 36.42 ft / 11.10 m |
| LWL | 31.08 ft / 9.47 m |
| S.A. (reported) | 592.00 ft² / 55.00 m² |
| Beam | 12.50 ft / 3.81 m |
| Displacement | 13,349.00 lb / 6,055 kg |
| Ballast | 4,156.00 lb / 1,885 kg |
| Max Draft | 5.00 ft / 1.52 m |
| Construction | FG |
| First Built | 1999 |
| Builder | Beneteau (USA) |
| Designer | Berret/Racoupeau |
| Auxiliary Power/Tanks (orig. equip.) |
Make: Volvo Penta Model: 2030 Type: Diesel HP: 30 |
| Fuel | 20 gals / 76 L |
| Accommodations | Water: 125 gals / 473 L |
| Sailboat Calculations |
S.A. / Displ.: 16.89 Bal. / Displ.: 31.13 Disp: / Len: 198.50 Comfort Ratio: 21.84 Capsize Screening Formula: 2.11 S#: 2.71 Hull Speed: 7.47 kn Pounds/Inch Immersion: 1,388.15 pounds/inch |
| Rig and Sail Particulars |
I: 45.21 ft / 13.78 m J: 13.94 ft / 4.25 m P: 38.39 ft / 11.70 m E: 14.44 ft / 4.40 m S.A. Fore: 315.11 ft² / 29.27 m² S.A. Main: 277.18 ft² / 25.75 m² S.A. Total (100% Fore + Main Triangles): 592.29 ft² / 55.03 m² S.A. / Displ. (calc.): 16.90 Est. Forestay Length: 47.31 ft / 14.42 m Mast Height from DWL: 49.58 ft / 15.11 m |
| Sailboat links | Designers: Berret-Racoupeau Builders: Beneteau Related Sailboats: Oceanis 361 (Beneteau) |
Disclaimer
The considerations and analyses presented regarding the Beneteau 361 sailboat are of a general nature and are based on the available information and technical data on this model, interpreted to the best of our knowledge and understanding. It is important to note that the specific characteristics of any particular sailboat may vary due to custom modifications, maintenance performed, and conditions of use over time, among other factors. Therefore, the details and performance of the boat you are considering may not exactly match the information provided here.
We strongly recommend that, before making any purchasing or usage decisions, you conduct a detailed inspection of the boat in question, consult with nautical professionals and other sailors, and consider your personal needs, expectations, and capabilities. Each sailboat may have unique particularities that affect its performance and suitability for different types of sailing and sailors.
The information contained in this analysis should be used as a general guide and not as a definitive reference. Professional evaluation and personal inspection are essential to ensure that the boat meets your specific requirements and expectations.