Carver 406 vs. 356

[Humbucker427]

I have two subjects about these boats, so I'll start two different threads... Sorry about the potential confusion.

First, I'm absolutely torn between these two boats, but I'm determined it'll be one of these models that I choose. I have a 1999 406 local to me that is in pistine condition. It has about 430 hours on Merc 7.4s. As well, there is a 356 about two solid days journey by the Tennessee River that's a 2001 model with 150 hours on Merc 8.1's. We have two small children, one and three years old, and both boats can be had for about the same amount of money. I'll post the pros of each:

1996 406 Pros:
1) larger aft deck (can easily seat 5 people with a coffee table and the 356 can only seat 4 with no room for a coffee table)
2) larger staterooms
3) larger swim platform
4) very slightly larger flybridge
5) better rough water handling

2001 356 Pros:
1) newer model
2) fewer hours
3) 8.1's instead of 7.4's
4) faster cruise (by about 6 mph)
5) more fuel efficient
6) interior is *much* better laid out - This is a big one to us. While the 356 is smaller by three feet, it's dinette is laid out in a way that makes it very accessable to the salon. On the 406, only four people can comfortably sit and talk face to face while the 356's layout can accomodate 7 people since three could be at the dinette facing the salon.

My wife and I love both models, but are having a difficult time with this decision. We could honestly flip a coin. I'm hoping some of you out there with more experience could offer up some things we haven't thought to consider.

Other factors:

1) We plan to stay on the boat about 10 nights a year, either docked or anchored.
2) We plan on entertaining family and friends often for a day (rarely overnight, if ever)
3) We plan on taking about two cruises a year a couple hundred miles up or down river with just the family for a week or so at a time.
4) This is our first major purchase of a cruiser.

Thanks!

 

[Starry Night]

Humbucker,

Things to consider.

Are you buying a boat for you and your family or all your friends?
How long do you want to keep the boat?
Your children are 1 and 3 now. In 3 years, they will be 4 and 6. get were I am going with this. You will need more room.
If you do not travel a lot and stay more at the dock, it does not matter what engines you have.
If you are entertaining for the day, chances are you will be going slow with guest anyway. Remember if you are entertaining, are you going to be inside or out. Most people I know are outside in the summer.

I looked at the 406 and the 356. both are nice, however I would look at the 406. There is a difference in size. I ended up purchasing a Carver/Trojan 440 Express Yacht last week. My kids are 6 and 8 now. We owned a Carver 3257 Montego for 8 years. Both kids were born on the boat. I needed more space. So will you..

I opt for the 406.

356 weight - 19,300
406 weight - 27,108 It is not just three feet as you say. Remember the Beam. It adds a lot

Good Luck, let us know how what happens.

 

[RamSport47]

I agree with Bob. While the 356 is a fantastic boat and a very good runner, the 406 is just so immense that it would take longer to outgrow it. Unless you're running with other boats on your cruises, the cruising speed on the 406 gas isn't bad. That 14' beam will be wonderful and the deep vee is something you'll appreciate if you ever get into big water.

 

[Mystic 506]

hambucker - how did you make out with this - I owned a 2002 356 with 8.1 crusaders for 3 years before buying my 506. we ran both boats, with different power options, in different conditions. many variables to consider here, happy to discuss with you. We actually had money down on a 406, and at the 23rd hour, switched to the 356 for multiple reasons. kinda funny - did the same with with the 504 and 506. Attribute both cases to an woman, but in hindsight she was right on both boats....thanks, Ken - Into the Mystic, 506, Baltimore MD