As far as power and economy, I have the 8.1s which is plenty of power. I cruise her at around 3500 burning roughly 30GPH cruising at 18-20KTS. She’ll do 30KTS at WOT but I only do that once in a blue moon to “blow the carbs out”
Just signed up, searching for my next boat
- Sadey
- First Mate

- Posts: 174
- Joined: September 16th, 2018, 6:56 am
- Vessel Info: Former owner of a 2003 Carver 356 with 8.1 Mercs
Agradecida
Current owner 1989 60’ Hatteras MY with 8v92 Detroit’s
Benedetto - Location: Racine Wisconsin/Ft. Lauderdale
- Has thanked: 4 times
- Been thanked: 29 times
Re: Just signed up, searching for my next boat
This will be a bold statement but I can back it up. We have what I’m sure is the cleanest and most well equipped 2003 356 out there. It is for sale but we just received an offer we are considering. We are offering it at $109,900. If your interested please reach out and I’ll keep you posted how the sale goes. The survey done last September came in at above average.
As far as power and economy, I have the 8.1s which is plenty of power. I cruise her at around 3500 burning roughly 30GPH cruising at 18-20KTS. She’ll do 30KTS at WOT but I only do that once in a blue moon to “blow the carbs out”
Diesels might give a little bit of an edge but definitely not worth the $80,000 it cost at time of build. I have been in every possible access point on this boat and am impressed with the fit and finish of this boat. If you have any questions about this model please feel free to PM me and I’ll give you my number. I’m also a pro aviator. Good luck to you and welcome to this forum people here are the best!
As far as power and economy, I have the 8.1s which is plenty of power. I cruise her at around 3500 burning roughly 30GPH cruising at 18-20KTS. She’ll do 30KTS at WOT but I only do that once in a blue moon to “blow the carbs out”
Thank you for the help!
Dave & Trina
Dave & Trina
- DanM
- Deck Hand

- Posts: 96
- Joined: February 8th, 2013, 5:49 pm
- Vessel Info: Carver 396
- Location: Lake Michigan
- Has thanked: 7 times
- Been thanked: 35 times
Re: Just signed up, searching for my next boat
Hi Ken,
I had a 356 and now own a 396 so if I can be of any assistance let me know.
Dan
I had a 356 and now own a 396 so if I can be of any assistance let me know.
Dan
Dan
Carver 396
SugarSand Tango
Carver 396
SugarSand Tango