366 vs the 355/356

[km1125]

So, if I understand correctly, the 355 and 356 are really the same boat, just that the 356 is an updated design.

Where does this put the 366? Seems to be available in the same years (early 2000s) and close to the same size. Similar layout (aft cabin). Why does it exist? What advantages would it have over the 355/356 vessels?

[Lyndon670]

The 366 is the "new" shape - the 355 and 355 are the traditional MY shape.

[Midnightsun]

Yep, 366 is the newer design. Same as my 41 CMY minus the rear aft deck.

[tomschauer]

The 366 is about 4' shorter than the 355 / 356. I believe it has the newer design "stubby" bow.

[km1125]

Did they start making the 366 in 2001 or 2002? Seems like there were a few years of overlap... weren't they making the 356 up to 2004?

I see some 366's as listed as 39' loa.. wouldn't that be close to a 356?

I could see the 366 superseding the 356, just confused at the overlap in production years.

[tomschauer]

I believe them made them both until about 2004. The 366 has an loa of 36'11 and the 356 41'2". I don't think the 366 has a bow pulpit, if not that could make up most of the difference in LOA. If it didn't have the pulpit, and with the stubby bow, the 366 most likely has the same interior or even a bit more interior space. I can only guess they kept the 356 because it sold very well. Maybe trying to acclimate buyers to the 366???

[buster53]

Kind of an older thread....
After looking at both the 356 and 366, I'm seriously leaning towards the 356 as my next boat.
On the 366, I don't care for the instrument panel, the short stubby foredeck and the downward slant of the foredeck looks kind of dangerous. Also, not a fan of the new, Eurostyle type of boat. Prefer the more traditional 356 style.

That being said, what possible negatives should I be aware of with the 356. To me the biggest drawback I see, and it is probably with both models, the engine room is very tight and it looks like it was not well planned. I've been aboard a Cruisers 3650, very similar layout and size of the 356 and the engine room is night and day difference with the 356. Lots of room below deck, all thru hulls easily accessible and just well planned. And the best part, one very large hatch for access and you don't have to move the settee to get to it.

[g36]

We have a 405 and not putting down any boat or choice. Have you looked at a 405 or 406. Very similiar styling of 355 outside and with larger aft sundeck and roomier inside in the salon and aft cabin and way more room in engine bay. Also main hatch in the middle without moving any furniture for engine access. Might be something to consider.

[buster53]

Thanks g36. I'm sure the 405/406 is a much better boat, but I would prefer to stay in the 356 size range for a number of reasons.
The Cruisers 3650/3750 ( basically the same boat) is really my number #1 choice, but used inventory is very limited and will probably cost an extra 15-20% more than a similar condition/year Carver 356. Those are the top 2 on my short list and I really don't want to go any bigger.

[g36]

No worries you just mentioned some drawbacks to the 355. The overall length is only 1'1" on the 405 over the 355 of course part of their reported length is bow pulpit. Neither boat is better than the other i just thought to offer as a consideration. Best of luck on your search.