Carver Model Comparison, History, Summary?

[buster53]

A couple of things…
What boating experience do you have, what kind of boats?
When looking at boats, even if online, what boxes are you attempting to check off the most?
You mentioned the 355 and 360 (although the 360 is not an aft cabin), what other boats have peaked your interest?

[Mr. Ted]

Hey Buster, thanks for the note.

Our experience is limited. A few weeks on different houseboats at low speeds up here in Canada, and some day trips on friend's larger vessels, and some sailing as well.

We are trying to maximize space and comfort while getting reasonable fuel burn. Speed is not much of a priority. As long as we can get something around 16-20 knots when needed, with the possibility of a low hull speed/low burn for almost trawler-like cruising at times.

Looking around 2002 models roughly. The aft cabin concept is what piqued my interest towards the Carver brand (learned since that the 360 is the sedan version as you mentioned) so most probably the 356 or 366. Depends on budget, the current craziness in the market, what boats may include slips, etc.

The space/layout appeals with Carver boats this size, the reputation for decent quality (maybe above average?) plus the possibility of diesel power. So many variables, but our mission would be 1. Touring the great lakes 2. Socializing with another family on board for a slow cruise 3. Day trips to visit friends at cottages in the area 4. Possibly a longer-range tour up the St. Lawrence to Quebec, starting in Lake Huron.

We've realized the best way to see Canada is from the water. Now we just have to match the right boat to our means by researching, learning and experiencing different boats. And that's the part I enjoy almost as much as the actual purchase. It's been like that with every hobby I've ever had. I enjoy the learning as much as anything else and don't mind taking quite a while to find the right purchase, hence the "slow-motion search" approach.

Thanks!

Mr. Ted

[buster53]

Obviously I’m biased towards the 356. Just the right size for me and the admiral. Big enough to be comfortable but not too big that the two of us can handle it fairly easily. Also, not too big that diesels are pretty essential. When you get into the 40’ range, you really need diesels. Mine does very well with Crusader 8.1’s. Cruise at 20 mph, but will fly when opened up to 35 mph.
While I’m not a fan of the outside styling, you might want to look at similar size Silvertons. They really have a lot of salon space, more than Carvers.

By the way, if you haven’t already, take a boater safety class and then follow up with Seamanship. Both are well worth the time and effort. Might even get you a break on insurance premiums.

[tgebler]

We have a 2000 396 aft cabin which I believe would fit your needs.

[Mr. Ted]

Thanks for the tips - yes, the boating safety class up here in Canada would be taken by all of us and the advanced class as well. The more knowledge the better.

[Mr. Ted]

Maybe to narrow down my question a little, how about this:

What, specifically, differentiates the 355 and 356, other than the latter being an update to the former?

Can people who have piloted both give some insight?

The current market is still a bit coo-koo but I'm noticing some overlap in prices between the 355 and 356 when the age is similar. Curious if there's a compelling reason to try to get a '6 over a '5, other than the average 356 will be a few years "younger."

Thanks,

Mr. Ted

[km1125]

The aft stateroom windows are one big difference. Might be an early vs late 355 thing but in there is only one porthole on each side vs on the 356 there are two on each side.

[Mr. Ted]

Thanks KM1125 - I noticed that when doing a side-by-side comparison in the 1000 islands a few weeks ago. The '6 looks sleeker, and I'm thinking it's mostly those windows.

Just wondering why Carver made the name change and what the 356 offers in terms of updates. There must have been something more substantial - hull, electrics, drive, powerplant options, interior choices?

Mr. Ted

[buster53]

Never been on a 355, so not much help there. If the 355/356 is most appealing to you, I’d just look for the best one I could find for the money and not be too concerned about it being a 5 or 6. I will say, I’m not a fan of the 366 styling. Much prefer the more traditional lines of the 356.

[tomschauer]

The 356 replaced the long aft cabin windows with portals and used solid surface countertops rather than Formica counters.
The hulls, running gear etc. are identical to the 355.