Beneteau Oceanis 323

The Beneteau Oceanis 323 (produced from 2003-2007/8) is a highly successful model designed by the renowned firm Groupe Finot/Conq. Representing the modern era of production cruisers, the 323 delivers an impressive combination of interior volume, easy handling, and sprightly performance, making it an ideal family coastal cruiser.

The 323 successfully blends cruising comfort with a hull design rooted in racing pedigree.

• Hull Design: The hull is notable for its high freeboard, wide beam carried well aft, and a stepped coachroof. This maximizes interior volume. Crucially, the underwater sections share DNA with Beneteau's sporty First line, giving the boat a surprisingly slippery and responsive feel for a cruising yacht.

• Construction: The hull is typically single-skinned GRP, reinforced in high-stress areas. The deck is a GRP/balsa sandwich for optimal strength, weight, and insulation. The structural inner moulding (a Beneteau hallmark) is laminated to the hull, absorbing stress from the keel and chainplates.

• Patented Helm: A highly praised feature is the patented pivoting helm seat/wheel console in the cockpit, which folds forward to create easy, walk-through access to the transom/sugar-scoop swim platform.

While primarily a comfortable cruiser, the 323 offers rewarding performance, particularly off the wind.

• Speed and Responsiveness: The boat is known to be quick, especially in light airs where its lighter displacement (approx 4,230kg) and generous sail area help immensely. Owners frequently report an eagerness to surf downwind, achieving good speeds (often 7 knots or more).

• Upwind Performance: Thanks to its efficient deep keel, the boat tracks reasonably well upwind, though its wide, flat-bottomed sections can sometimes lead to pounding in heavy chop. The boat is responsive, and its handling is balanced, encouraging the helmsperson to actively sail.

• Rig: Rigged as a masthead sloop with a deck-stepped mast, the sail plan is conservative and easily managed, featuring a furling genoa and slab main. All lines are led aft to the cockpit, simplifying short-handed sailing.

• Engine: The 2007 models are fitted with the reliable Yanmar 3YM20 diesel engine (around 21 hp), providing sufficient auxiliary power for its displacement.

The interior volume of the Oceanis 323 is its strongest selling point, feeling much larger than its 32-foot length suggests.

• General Layout: Headroom is generous throughout the saloon (up to 1.95m), which is flooded with light thanks to large deck-level windows and overhead hatches. The lighter colored woodwork on the 2007 model enhances the bright atmosphere.

• Cabins: The standard layout offers two comfortable double cabins: a V-berth forward and a large aft cabin. 

• Saloon & Galley: The saloon features symmetrical settees and a drop-leaf table. The L-shaped galley, located to port at the foot of the companionway, is functional, well-equipped with a two-burner stove/oven, and a refrigerator/icebox, making it highly practical for cruising couples or families.

• Head: The generously sized head is located aft, to starboard, and includes a shower and easy-to-access seacocks.