Deck Saloon Suggestions

paulrae

Well-Known Member
Joined
8 Oct 2004
Messages
276
Location
Clyde coast, Scotland
Visit site
Had a look at a Jeanneau SO 40DS a while back and was very impressed by the deck saloon concept. We anchor in some beautiful spots, but being in Scotland, the cold, rain and midges ensure that the cockpit's not that alluring as a place to lounge around and take in the views. So a deck saloon seems like 'a good idea'. Being a hardy type, I'm not that bothered about an internal steering position, I'd just like to relax with a glass of something interesting and watch the world go by, with the eber on in the background (maybe not that hardy!).

So today we went to look at a Scanyacht 399DS. A Swedish-built 40 footer with two cabins, two heads and acres of glass. I was impressed by the build quality and the on-deck facilities. Unfortunately I wasn't impressed with the internal layout, which didn't really flow from one part of to another, and actually felt quite cramped for a 40 footer. It was a real shame, as she's on at a very reasonable price.

As the broker also dealt in new Bavarias, he suggested that we have a look at the new Bav 40 Vision. Very light and roomy indeed, but not a deck saloon.

So, if one was in the market for a similar vessel to the Scanyacht, but which is a more 'coherent' internal design, for less than 100k what would receive a general recommendation?
 
We bought a Jeanneau 43DS last year and love it. The deck saloon concept is wonderful and is extremely popular with sailing wives! The perceived space below does justice to a 50 footer yet can easily be handled by two people.
 
The Moody Eclipse Range (33, 38 & 43) are all DS and also some of the Southerly range with the benifit of lifting keels.
 
The Jen calls itself a deck saloon, but it isn't. A deck saloon should allow you to sit in the saloon and look down on the water not up to the sky. Yes they have lots of glass, but sitting at the table you can only look up. Have a look at the Regina Vindo 39 or 42, or the Nauticat 39 that's a proper deck saloon
 
Mind you, if you want a really good all round view, you could try this neat little modification. I'll introduce you for a small fee . . .



















Decksaloon.jpg
 
[ QUOTE ]
Under 100k?!

[/ QUOTE ]

That's what I thought... Shame about the budget, if it wasn't a consideration, the Regina 38 would be near the top.

Just thinking of the boats we've tested recently that tick the DS with a saloon you can look out for:

Etap 46DS, Nordship 40, Regina 35 but we also looked around the 38 and 43, Nauticat full range from the 33/331 upwards. The new Jeanneaus don't have the sit up saloon, but they do have long portlights in the hull that give you quite good vis, but it's not got the full vis, Moody 45 DS, see the video but none of these are with budget, or even close, there's a DS Arcona, again too expensive

Secondhand brands you could look into:
Degero, Nauticat, Moody eclipse, Southerly

You could probably pick up a Nauticat 33/331 (or 1990+ 35) Southerly

Depends on how you value looks/sailing performance in your quest /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

115 or Mooody Eclipse 38 for under £100K

Unless you go older than late 80's / early 90's, it's doubtful you'll be able to find something around the 40ft mark

Good luck and lets us know what you go for /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

In my opinion, not the opinion of Yachting Monthly or IPC media
 
We bought a Jen 40DS. Love it. We have the 2 cabin version. Two heads, one en-suite, sails really well. Ideal for two or two couples. And you'll get it for the budget.
 
Looks like the general concensus is that I'll have to save up a bit to get the boat of my dreams. Thanks very much for your helpful suggestions. If I take the DS plunge I'll let you know.

Regards

Paul
 
Again, shame about the budget, if it wasn't a consideration then perhaps a Moddy Carbineer ...dining room with open views/three bed/ two bath /sep.kitchen/ cellar/ masses of storage/ large outdoor seating area / large pool (generally prewarmed) usually available nearby. Oh, and a large donkey in the cellar for going to wind or just getting home after a nice day sailing.
 
Top