Yachting World
- Digital Edition
Bavaria C42 review: The Ford Model T of 40ft yachts
- Toby Hodges
- February 11, 2021
The Bavaria C42 needs to offer bang for your buck if it is to stand out in a crowded field of 40ft cruisers. Toby Hodges takes the new offering for a gusty autumn sail to see what she's made of.
Product Overview
Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.
What constitutes ‘good value’? What you get for your money in any market segment often comes down to size – be that square feet of real estate area or gigabytes of memory. But is bigger necessarily better value?
Sailors with the means and desire to buy new understandably seek as much value for money as they can get for that size. What we’ve seen over the last decade is a marked increase in the volume to length ratio of new yachts, and more recently in the way contemporary hull shapes can further boost internal volumes at each end.
For a production yard to stay competitive though, it needs to offer more than just bang for your buck. It needs to be shrewd in its design and innovative enough to lure you away from the competition, to make you think its yachts are roomier, brighter and better. It needs to make boats that the crew want to spend time aboard, and are practical to manage or give the helmsman an enjoyable hands-on experience; preferably both. Value should include some emotive quality too – the hard to quantify satisfaction you get from using it.
This is a tall order. But as we surged down yet another wave face on our test sail I came to the conclusion that this new Bavaria offers that extra value. It was a fleeting taster of powered-up offwind sailing, but in a year of abnormality, a particularly memorable one. And in such a competitive marketplace, that extra something is what’s needed to stand out from the crowd.
Ups ‘n’ downs
The production yacht world doesn’t get any more competitive than in the 40ft sector, a size that remains so appealing for both private family cruising and charter. And I’m going to keep referring to the C42 as 40ft, because that’s the hull length without the optional bowsprit.
Before we consider Bavaria’s answer to the 40 footer question, let’s remember this company has been through its share of challenges recently. In 2018 it was flying high with a new C-line from 45-65ft. Yet by September that year, rather than celebrating its 40th anniversary, it was filing for insolvency.
Tall deck-stepped mast and the most sail area in its class help give the Bavaria notable performance. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
This C42 is the first model developed under Bavaria’s new management. It caused a stir when it was unveiled last January, with crowds queuing for an hour to view it at the Düsseldorf Boat Show . But then followed the global pandemic, when “order intake collapsed almost completely,” explains CEO Michael Müller. He points out that work has only been running at full capacity again since October. Bavaria’s financials must read like a heart rate monitor.
All of which makes the C42 a crucial new model for a yard on the rebound. This is Maurizio Cossutti’s fourth Bavaria design and he opted for a clever and powerful shape, the first Bavaria with hard chines and a rounded ‘V-bow’. As I was to discover, these features make a crucial difference, both down below and on the water.
Article continues below…
Arcona 435 review: Swedish star offers something for everyone
After the Arcona 435 sailed off with the Performance Cruiser category win at this year’s European Yacht of the Year…
Azuree 40 test
One of the first and most striking things to note about sailing the C42 is the direct feel of the helm, which engages you immediately. This design may be in keeping with today’s breed of production cruiser, with its full bow sections and generous beam carried aft, but it’s unusual not to marry that shape with twin rudders. Bavaria says its owners want the close-quarters manoeuvrability that prop wash over a single rudder helps to provide. The C42 proved easy in reverse too, without the tendency of twin rudders to slam to one side once they catch.
Sailors will feel the benefit under canvas immediately. The Jefa steering linkage from the twin wheels to the single, easily accessible quadrant in-between is kept to a minimum, giving the best chance for direct feel.
Autumnal shakedown
With the in-mast mainsail and self-tacking jib fully unfurled (Elvstrom Sporttech laminate), we punched out into the Solent to meet photographer Rick Tomlinson. It was typical easterly conditions, with big variance in the strong gusts as we dialled down from a beam to a deep broad reach, endeavouring to keep speed up and apparent wind down.
The coachroof line is brought right aft, which draws out the lines and creates protective coamings for the cockpit. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
I particularly enjoyed the feel provided by the modestly sized single spade rudder as we surged down waves, making 7-9+ knots SOG against the tide, with gusts now up to the high 20s. (Note, we had no log installed, but the polars confirm that in anything over 20 knots the C42 is capable of hitting double figures reaching, and over 9 knots in 16 true.)
The chine and beam were doing what they should and buying form stability, while the bulbous stem kept trim bow-up. This powerful hull shape is allied with a 20m mast that sets around 100m2 of upwind sail area. That is a whopping 30% more than the Oceanis 40.1 and makes for a potent sail area to displacement ratio.
It points to a yacht that you can keep sailing in light winds – indeed my fellow European Yacht of the Year judges confirmed the C42 performs handsomely in sub 10-knot breeze – and one that should be able to maintain respectable passagemaking speeds even while reefed.
With power comes the need to treat it with respect. Thankfully, the rudder did what it should do and let me know when we were pressed and provided the chance to let off more sheet. Again, this is a marked difference from the majority of today’s cruising yachts with deep twin rudders, which tend to maintain grip at all angles and make you question what the fuse will be when you do push the boat.
The C42 features hard chines and a full bow, both of which help buy internal volume. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
A German mainsheet system is only an option on the Bavaria, and not one chosen for the test boat. Instead, and unusually nowadays, the main was sheeted to one of the companionway winches. So although you get the polite notification to ease from the rudder, you need to communicate this to a crewmember by the winch. Therefore, were I buying this boat for short-handed easy cruising – as is suggested by the self-tacking jib and in-mast mainsail set-up – I’d opt for the extra set of winches aft for the mainsheet.
The pedestals are mounted as close to the transom as possible to maximise the length of the cockpit benches. So it’s a little cramped in the quarters, particularly by the split backstay, but it doesn’t feel unsafe and the pay-off in cockpit size is worthwhile.
The mainsheet bridle set-up is a common system, which keeps the mainsheet out of the cockpit. But there’s no traveller option and it’s mounted more than half way forward along the boom, which puts a lot of load on the midboom section and places a reliance on the vang for mainsail shape. However, this arrangement does allow for a large companionway entrance.
The helms are right aft in the quarters. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
The winch layout spreads out the sheets and running rigging, so it’s not all piling up in one place. But there is no provision for the tail ends as standard, so bags or clips would need to be fitted to prevent a snake pit at the base of the companionway.
Sailing deep was manageable in the Force 6 gusting 7, with active crewmembers manning winches, but with the wind against tide conditions producing 1.5-2m overfalls to head back into, we needed to shorten sail to turn upwind.
With a couple of metres taken out of the foot of the main and three rolls in the genoa, the Bavaria felt comfortable as we beat upwind at 35-40° to the apparent breeze (7-8 knots SOG with tide). Given the conditions, the motion was not uncomfortable. The boat seemed relatively stiff without launching off waves or slamming.
However, after a couple of tacks the rig called time and the shrouds went alarmingly slack. Without rigging tools on board to tighten up the bottlescrews properly, we had to furl sails and accept a long motor home.
We tested the Bavaria on the Solent, UK in easterly winds of 18-29 knots. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
Disappointing as it was, this was a new boat, sailing in strong breeze and waves for the first time. I would estimate that the standing rigging had only been loosely tightened and the wire shrouds had not had any chance to settle, stretch and be adjusted accordingly . Indeed the dealer, Clipper Marine, commented later: “the rig hadn’t been bedded in, nor had the riggers had a chance to do the pre-delivery inspection because of COVID restrictions – when we would have re-tuned the rig before handover.”
The aft helms leave room for a very generous cockpit table and long benches, which have proper coamings to give backrest support and some protection. Locker space is conservative in two shallow bench lockers, a port quarter locker and a sail locker. The latter has only a small hatch, which will limit the size of sail (or fenders) that it can accommodate.
The berth in forward cabin is particularly large. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
Outer and inner space
The coachroof is a clever design, which starts far forward to maximise headroom below. It is kept low and flat-topped, which allows good visibility forward from the helms and means the roof itself can accommodate sunbathing cushions.
Bavaria has incorporated an extra-long companionway roof, to allow for maximum light to enter the interior and for a gently angled descent. First impressions and a sense of space when going below is crucial, as it helps create that feeling of getting a lot of boat for your money.
Hanse was early onto this with the development of its loft-style interiors, which began over a decade ago. And latterly Groupe Beneteau has found a new way of increasing living space by adding volume to the bows in conjunction with increased beam aft. Bavaria seems to have combined the best of both ideas, so you really do keep asking yourself if this boat is really only 40ft.
The darker walnut veneer of the test boat. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
Inviting the considerable amount of natural light in through hatches, portholes and coachroof windows helps. The space is also used smartly, apportioning it most where it’s typically needed – in the saloon and cabins. The L-shaped galley is practical enough and there is a navstation of sorts, which shares the forward end of the port saloon berth.
The berth in the forward cabin looks particularly large as it is taken right out to the hull sides (1.80×2.07m). The fact that there is room to mount the headboard forward and to house the extra (optional) 250lt water tank below the berth points to the sheer volume in the bows.
Fine Detailing
The forward end of the port sofa forms the chart table seat. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
You can tell Bavaria has paid close attention to detail, in particular with the wood and veneer work, the lighting and home comforts. Personally I prefer the lighter Alpi veneer rather than the darker walnut of the test boat and find the use of dark grey panels on the bulkheads and heads area a little cold. I’d also choose a second heads if having a three-cabin boat.
The saloon feels especially roomy, a perception aided by the deck-stepped mast. Credit to the yard for including a table that can seat so many in its open format yet can fold over to halve in size and give walkthrough access.
However, I did take issue with the square edges and sharp corners this leaves on the saloon table (and chart table). Bavaria’s product manager, Pascal Kuhn, has assured me these will be modified, and you can see in the main saloon picture how the corner is now angled, but the edges remain an area of concern.
The table doubles over to join the port sofa. Photo: Rick Tomlinson
An extra couple of grab handles around this space between the galley, heads and saloon table would also be useful, but the galley surfaces are all fiddled and there is a sturdy support post by the curved companionway steps.
The joinery feels solid. The sole panels in particular were noticeably quiet underfoot. Although Bavaria’s method of screwing these down is not so practical for accessing the bilge in a hurry, there are numerous panels to allow access to all areas.
All five companionway steps lift to get at the forward end of the engine and there are good side panels in each aft cabin.
Look beneath the scenes and you begin to notice a few scrappier details. I don’t like seeing electronics mounted in non-watertight lockers, for example, and the use of bare ply and veneered bulkheads here are unlikely to prove durable. I also think it a backward step that Bavaria has returned to using hand lay-up for manufacture instead of vacuum infusion.
The Bavaria C42 is designed to hit that broadest of markets, the Ford Model T of 40ft production cruisers, yet it shows that mass market does not have to mean boring. Take the wheel of this powerful design in a breeze and you’ll soon find you can have your new voluminous family cruiser and still actively enjoy the sailing. The Bavaria is not without its flaws, but wherever you look you seem to discover added value. There is maximum space where you want it, in the accommodation, saloon and cockpit, all fitted into a clever hull shape that offers stability and performance. Every industry needs models that set the standard in their range. The C42 sets a new bar in the 40ft sector and, therefore, potentially what should be deemed ‘good value’ today.
- Virtess 420
- Sorrento 32 Hard Top
- Sorrento 36 Hard Top
- Southerly 420
- Southerly 480
- Southerly Swing Keel
- View Available Inventory
- Yacht Search
- Featured Sail
- Featured Power
- Southerly Yachts
- Island Packet
- Bavaria Yachts
- Buyer Representation
- Sell Your Boat
- Variable Draft Specialists
- Testimonials
- Meet the Team
- Our History
Sailboat Review: Bavaria C38
The forward-thinking design on the c38 leaves plenty of space in the bow for an owner’s en suite stateroom with a king-size berth., by mark pillsbury april 20, 2022.
For the past several years, practically all of the design surprises that have caught my eye on new sailboats have been abaft the mast. In no particular order, these innovative features include hull chines, twin rudders, pop-up TVs, house-style refrigerators, galleys forward in the saloon, sinks and grills on the stern, sun beds between a monohull’s twin wheels, and lounges on the coachroof to either side of the companionway. Some of these make the boat sail better, while others make it a more comfortable place to enjoy life on the water.
But this past fall, it was the pointy end—or, should I say, the not-so-pointy end—of the Bavaria C38 that stood out. It made an impression from above, as I looked across the broad foredeck, and down below, where the builder’s in-house team and Cossutti Yacht Design somehow found a way to install a king-size berth in the owner’s stateroom, while still leaving room for a hanging locker and a head-and-shower compartment, all forward of the mast.
For a decade or more, even as beam measurement amidships has steadily increased and been carried aft to allow for ever more spacious twin staterooms, most boats still have been built with a bow that’s shaped like an arrow point. The Bavaria V-bow, as the company calls it, has a more radial shape and hullsides that flare out above the waterline, creating all that living space in the interior.
In a briefing with CW ’s Boat of the Year judges, a company representative described the 38 as a family coastal cruiser. I thought that design brief seemed pretty accurate as we went through the boat, and later took it out for a sail. If kids and their friends are the crew, you could pack a pile of them into the two aft cabins, and the dining table in the saloon drops down to form a third double berth. And they could all share the head and shower compartment to starboard, at the foot of the companionway. Meantime, mom and pop can escape to the big forward stateroom.
The forward stateroom’s en suite head compartment does cut into a corner of the berth, but couples who plan to only occasionally have grandkids or friends aboard can forgo the forward head. They also could turn one of the aft cabins into a workspace or stowage, which is standard.
In all three configurations, the saloon stays unchanged. A settee, with a nav desk forward of it, is to port, opposite the dining table and a U-shaped, cushioned seat. The tabletop folds open to handle a crew of six or more. Abaft the settee is an L-shaped galley with a sink, fridge and three-burner gas stove. The boat we visited also had a microwave. Stowage seemed adequate for coastal-hopping, and the counters had fiddles to keep things from sliding off when heeled.
Topsides, the cockpit coamings make good backrests on the benches forward of the twin wheels. The seats are a bit too short for sleeping, the judges noted, but stepping out over the coamings isn’t difficult when headed forward.
The saloon table drops down and converts to an additional double berth. Jon Whittle
Having owned (and sanded and varnished) a boat with exterior wood handrails and trim, I appreciated the C38’s low-maintenance exterior finish. The raised bulwarks and deck are fiberglass, and handrails on the cabin top are stainless steel. The only exterior wood is on the centerline table in the cockpit. That table’s after end doubles as a nifty place to mount a plotter because it’s visible from either helm. Far forward, there’s a chain locker with good access to the windlass and anchor rode. The anchor itself is stowed on a roller that extends forward, and the bow is further protected from accidental dings by a stainless-steel plate. Aft, there is equally good access to the emergency steering and quadrant for the single rudder.
With the two-head layout, the forward compartment cuts into a portion of the king-size bunk. Jon Whittle
Among the options included on the C38 we sailed were three air-conditioning units, a Fusion sound system, and synthetic teak called Esthec on the cockpit seats and sole, and the swim platform. Hardware and electronics were from Seldén, Lewmar and B&G. Sails were from Elvstrøm.
Bavaria builds 500-plus sailboats a year at its factory in Germany, and the C38 is the smallest in the five-boat Cossutti-designed C line; the flagship is a 57-footer. The company builds two other lines of cruising sailboats—the Cruiser and Vision ranges—for a total of 16 models starting at 32 feet.
Bavaria’s hulls and decks are all hand-laminated, with foam coring between inner and outer layers of fiberglass. Aluminum plates are in the composite sandwich wherever hardwaare is to be mounted. Hulls and decks are joined with adhesive and screws.
Underway, the C38 is a relatively simple boat to sail, with in-mast furling for the main and a self-tacking jib, also set on a furler. The boat doesn’t have a traveler, so when beating upwind, tacking requires just a turn of the wheel.
The rounded bow hints at the volume down below. Jon Whittle
A double-ended mainsheet is led back to winches within reach of either of the twin wheels, and sail control lines are all led across the coachroof to clutches and a pair of winches on either side of the companionway. There are also genoa tracks mounted on deck and sheet winches on either coaming, should an owner opt for an overlapping genoa.
Underway, I found that visibility from either wheel was good, thanks to the low-profile cabin. The stainless-steel stern pulpit makes a good backrest when sitting down to steer.
We had moderate conditions the day we took the boat out for a sail on the Chesapeake Bay, right after the close of the United States Sailboat Show in Annapolis, Maryland, in October. Sailing hard on the wind in 15 or so knots of breeze, we saw a steady 5.5 knots on the GPS. The track for the self-tending jib’s car lacked stops, so we weren’t able to get the headsail in as far as we might have liked to, but that’s an easy fix. With the sheets eased a bit for a close reach, our speed jumped to 7 knots and change. Under power, the 40 hp Yanmar pushed us along at just over 6 knots, at a fuel-sipping 2,300 rpm cruising speed.
The skipper who delivered the boat to the show was along for the ride. He said that they’d encountered a variety of conditions on the ride up from St. Augustine, Florida, and the boat took them all in stride—just as a family cruiser should.
Bavaria C38 Specifications
| LENGTH OVERALL | 37’4″ (11.38 m) |
|---|---|
| WATERLINE LENGTH | 33’9″ (10.29 m) |
| BEAM | 13’1″ (3.99 m) |
| DRAFT | 5’5″ (1.65 m) |
| SAIL AREA (100%) | 768 sq. ft. (71.3 sq. m) |
| BALLAST | 5,423 lb. (2,460 kg) |
| DISPLACEMENT | 20,547 lb. (9,320 kg) |
| BALLAST/DISPLACEMENT | 0.26 |
| DISPLACEMENT/LENGTH | 239 |
| SAIL AREA/DISPLACEMENT | 16.4 |
| WATER | 132 gal. (500 L) |
| FUEL | 46 gal. (174 L) |
| HOLDING | 18 gal. (70 L) |
| MAST HEIGHT | 60’11” (18.57 m) |
| ENGINE | 40 hp Yanmar, saildrive |
| DESIGNER | Cossutti Yacht Design |
| 49-9334-9420 |
| WIND SPEED | 15-17 knots |
|---|---|
| SEA STATE | Light chop |
| SAILING | Closehauled 5.4 |
| Reaching 7.0 | |
| MOTORING | Cruise (2,300 rpm) 6.1 knots |
| Fast (2,800 rpm) 7.0 knots |
Original Article: cruisingworld.com
Related posts
- Competitions
- British Yachting Awards
- Southampton Boat Show
- Print Subscription
- Digital Subscription
- Single Issues
- Advertise with us
Your special offer
Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting today!
Save 32% on the shop price when to subscribe for a year at just £39.95
Subscribe to Sailing Today with Yachts & Yachting!
Save 32% on the shop price when you subscribe for a year at just £39.95
Bavaria 37C: Review and test
As I mentioned in my report on the Bavaria Vision a few months ago there seems to have been a step change at the Bavaria yard in Germany. Its latest yachts, both the Vision and Cruiser ranges, look as if they have been produced by a completely different company to the one building them just a few years ago.
Its latest designs appear to have had considerable input from cruising sailors, so one can only suspect that Bavaria has been paying a good deal of attention to its large owner base. Certainly, since the Farr Yacht Design and Design Unlimited teams got together, both the interior and exterior of its yachts have improved noticeably, and Bavaria’s new 37 Cruiser is a prime example.
Gone are the rather utilitarian-looking rectangular coachroof portlights and squared-off edges. She now has a far sleeker superstructure that blends gently into the decks and makes the best of modern features such as flush hatches. Out go silly fripperies like electric swimming platforms that could break within weeks. In come useful features such as adjustable backstay, inboard headsail tracks, cockpit table-mounted chartplotter and deep cockpit locker options. There is more deck gear of better quality and even some real wood.
Of course the new boat has the now familiar attributes of all mid-range production cruisers these days – wide stern, drop-down transom platform, twin wheels – but I’m pleased to say that Bavaria seems to have managed to blend everything together in very manageable proportions.
Deceptive size
A 37-footer (11.3m) might not sound that big in an age when some are calling a 50ft (15.2m) yacht a starter boat, but with the careful thought that Bavaria has put into its new range, this boat genuinely feels like a 40-footer (12.2m) and I’d be happy to sail her across an ocean – with the right kit on board.
Simplicity has always been the key to easy sail handling and the 37C’s deck layout is just that. A pair of chunky Lewmar two-speed self-tailing winches on the coamings is the standard layout, but having an extra pair each side, as on our test boat, offers greater flexibility. Ostensibly, the extra winches are for a spinnaker, but in white-sail mode the genny sheets can either be led to the foremost winch if you have crew, or the aft if you want control from the helm.
The genoa sheet tracks are mounted on the coachroof edges, which not only gives the sail a nice tight sheeting angle when sailing close-hauled, but also means the side decks are kept obstruction-free.
The mainsheet doesn’t have a track, disappointingly, but its two anchor points are devised in such a way that you have twin sheets, each leading through a clutch to a different winch on either side of the companionway. Unlike a single anchor point, this allows you to pull the boom down on the leeward side, keeping the mainsail nice and flat in a blow.
Personally, though, I’d rather have the mainsheets led back to the aftermost coaming winch so the helmsman can trim from the wheel, and then lead the headsail sheets to the forward coaming winches. I’ve never found tacking the headsail single-handed a problem on a modern yacht with an autopilot. Whatever your personal preference, having six two-speed ST winches offers you plenty of scope for customisation.
She has a 9/10ths fractional rig with tapered, deck-stepped Selden mast with a little pre-bend and twin spreaders swept back 30°. The mast is supported by discontinuous caps, lowers and intermediates, the first two being led down to chunky chainplates bonded into the hull sides, giving a wide shroud base for maximum lateral support. Twin backstays open up the stern access, but can be a tad annoying for the helmsman sitting out. A powerful mechanical backstay tensioner is an option that ensures you can easily flatten the main in a blow.
As standard she comes with a semi-battened and slab-reefed cruising mainsail, a 105 per cent furling genoa, a deep, cast-iron keel and a balanced spade rudder. Options include a 1.63m (5ft 4in)shoal keel, gas-sprung kicker, full-battened or in-mast furling mainsail, gennaker and cruising chute with snuffer.
0 0 2013-09-20T09:11:00Z 1 615 3510 CSL Publishing Ltd 29 8 4117 14.0 Normal 0 false false false EN-US JA X-NONE
This is a great family cruiser from Bavaria, which is much improved in the fit-out quality and layout stakes compared to some past models.
In addition to her comfortable, bright and very practical interior (the two-cabin model is by far the best to my mind), she has an impressive sailing performance. She is quick, tracks well, is vice-free and easy to handle. She really showed her mettle in the strong gusts, only breaking free in a gentle round-up with 20 knots plus over the deck under full sail.
In all, she’s very good value for money, although, like most other production boatbuilders, Bavaria now uses the ‘package’ scheme, which means the base price is unlikely to be what you end up paying if you want most of the cruising comforts we take for granted, such as hot water, a shower, shore power etc.
The demo boat Clipper Marine supplied had most of the upgrades, which would add at least a further £22,000 to the bottom line.
Tech Specs:
Price From £93,750
LOA: 37ft (11.3m)
LWL: 35ft 9in (10.9m)
Beam: 12ft (3.7m)
Draught (shoal/deep): 5ft 4in (1.6m)/6ft 4in (2m)
Displacement: 7,000kg (15,400lb)
Ballast: 2,080kg (4,576lb)
Sail Area: 698sqft (65m²)
Fuel: 150lt (33gal)
Water: 210lt (46gal)
Berths: 4/6
Engine: 19hp Volvo D1-20
Transmission: Saildrive
Designer: Farr Design/Design Unlimited
Builder: Bavaria Yachtbau www.bavaria-yachtbau.com
UK agent: Clipper Marine, +44 (0)23 8060 5060, www.clippermarine.co.uk
RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR
Boat Test: New Luxurious Multihull Lagoon 60
Boat Test: Jeanneau Sun Fast 30
Boat Test: New Bavaria C46
Offering a wealth of practical advice and a dynamic mix of in-depth boat, gear and equipment news, Sailing Today is written cover to cover by sailors, for sailors. Since its launch in 1997, the magazine has sealed its reputation for essential sailing information and advice.
- Telegraph.co.uk
ADVERTISING
© 2024 Chelsea Magazine Company , part of the Telegraph Media Group . | Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy
- New Sailboats
- Sailboats 21-30ft
- Sailboats 31-35ft
- Sailboats 36-40ft
- Sailboats Over 40ft
- Sailboats Under 21feet
- used_sailboats
- Apps and Computer Programs
- Communications
- Fishfinders
- Handheld Electronics
- Plotters MFDS Rradar
- Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
- Anchoring Mooring
- Running Rigging
- Sails Canvas
- Standing Rigging
- Diesel Engines
- Off Grid Energy
- Cleaning Waxing
- DIY Projects
- Repair, Tools & Materials
- Spare Parts
- Tools & Gadgets
- Cabin Comfort
- Ventilation
- Footwear Apparel
- Foul Weather Gear
- Mailport & PS Advisor
- Inside Practical Sailor Blog
- Activate My Web Access
- Reset Password
- Customer Service
- Free Newsletter
Blue Jacket 40 Used Boat Review
Catalina 270 vs. The Beneteau First 265 Used Boat Match-Up
Ericson 41 Used Boat Review
Mason 33 Used Boat Review
How to Create a Bullet-Proof VHF/SSB Backup
Tips From A First “Sail” on the ICW
Tillerpilot Tips and Safety Cautions
Best Crimpers and Strippers for Fixing Marine Electrical Connectors
Polyester vs. Nylon Rode
Getting the Most Out of Older Sails
How (Not) to Tie Your Boat to a Dock
Stopping Mainsheet Twist
Fuel Lift Pump: Easy DIY Diesel Fuel System Diagnostic and Repair
Ensuring Safe Shorepower
Sinking? Check Your Stuffing Box
What Do You Do With Old Fiberglass Boats?
Boat Repairs for the Technically Illiterate
Boat Maintenance for the Technically Illiterate
Whats the Best Way to Restore Clear Plastic Windows?
Stopping Holding-tank Odors
Giving Bugs the Big Goodbye
Galley Gadgets for the Cruising Sailor
The Rain Catcher’s Guide
Sailing Gear for Kids
What’s the Best Sunscreen?
UV Clothing: Is It Worth the Hype?
Preparing Yourself for Solo Sailing
R. Tucker Thompson Tall Ship Youth Voyage
On Watch: This 60-Year-Old Hinckley Pilot 35 is Also a Working…
On Watch: America’s Cup
On Watch: All Eyes on Europe Sail Racing
Dear Readers
- Sailboat Reviews
Bavaria 38 Ocean
This german-built production cruiser has first-class construction and is favorably priced. for serious cruising, however, she does have a few drawbacks such as a small galley and marginal sea berths..
In our travels to the boat shows, we’ve noticed an increased number of German and Scandinavian boats distributed in the U.S. by American dealerships. Part of the reason, certainly, is favorable exchange rates. To get a feel for how these boats stack up to their American and French counterparts, we decided to test sail the German-built Bavaria 38 Ocean. In a nutshell, it’s a well-built, comfortable cruiser with a small sailplan that may be well suited to offshore passage-making, but will not be exactly spirited in light air.
The Company Bavaria Yachts is a family-owned operation that began as the manufacturer of glass windows. Today, it produces boats in a new, modern plant in Giebelstadt, Germany. The firm evolved into the boatbuilding business in 1970’s, and currently produces approximately 450 boats per year, ranging in size from 29′ to 50′. Bavaria builds several distinct lines. Heavy emphasis is placed on the Holiday series, multi-cabin cruisers destined for the charter fleets in the Mediterranean. The Exclusive line consists of traditional aft cockpit sloops with fewer sleeping compartments, and a large master stateroom. The 38 Ocean features a center-cockpit intended for family cruising. The first boats imported to North America began arriving in 1995, and are in service in a charter fleet in the Pacific Northwest.
Though the company may not have the decades-old pedigree of some competitors, it enjoys among Europeans a reputation as the builder of sturdy, seaworthy boats. Bavaria funds the cost of two Lloyd’s inspectors who are permanently on site to inspect each boat as it works its way through the production line. Consequently, boats aren’t simply “built to Lloyd’s specifications,” but are issued a Germanischer Lloyd A5 certificate that covers hull, rig, engine, electrical system and locking devices.
Design Bavaria yachts are designed by the J and J design office, a relatively obscure firm founded by brothers Jernej and Japec Jakopin in 1983. Their first yacht, the Elan 31, was an immediate success, winning the 3/4 Ton world championships; more than 700 were produced. The firm subsequently formed a boat engineering company, Seaway, that offers marketing, design, tooling and prototyping services.
J and J works with more than 20 production yards in Europe, and has designed boats for Jeanneau, Bavaria, and Dufour, in collaboration with Bruce Farr, Doug Peterson and the Jeanneau design team. Three designs received Boat of the Year awards at the 1997 Dusseldorf boat show.
The pleasing lines of the Holiday and Exclusive models are similar in appearance to many Baltic, Swan, Wauquiez and Swedish Yachts.
The Ocean 38 Ocean, because it is a center-cockpit design, presents a different look. Its beam is considerable (13′ 2″), which gives us some concern regarding inverse stability and upwind performance. On the other hand, it makes for a large interior and increases initial stability.
The displacement/length (D/L) ratio is 217, and the sail area/displacement (SA/D) ratio is 17.8, numbers that are reasonable for most coastal cruising conditions. The D/L is a bit low for what most people would consider suitable for blue-water cruising.
The whale’s tail fin keel and spade rudder represent current thinking to improve lift and control. The boat is available with either 5′ 1″ or 6′ 5″ draft.
We think that one of the major drawbacks of a center cockpit arrangement is the height above the water, which can translate to mal de mer in heavy seas when the boat pitches and rolls; the tradeoff is a drier ride, even when pounding to weather, as we learned on a trip from San Francisco to Hawaii.
Construction The firm boasts that most of its employees have been working for Bavaria for more than 10 years, most having come through its formal apprenticeship program. A video we reviewed showed the operation to be highly efficient. Wood is brought into the wood shop as logs and milled; workers in the lay-up process are presented with shopping carts filled with numbered sheets of fiberglass that have been precut to specific sizes by a computer, and premixed containers of resin, so there is no deviation in the lay-up.
The downside to this rigid approach is that no customizing is possible. As Henry Ford said, “You can have any color you want as long as it’s black.”
The lay-up methods are fairly straightforward. The outer skin is powder-bonded glass mat and isopthalic resins. The hull below the waterline is solid fiberglass laid up to a thickness of 32 mm with alternating layers of 15-ounce and 20-ounce Verotex woven roving. The forward section of the hull, from the bow aft to the first bulkhead, is reinforced with a 2-mm thick layer of Kevlar. Additional strength is provided by double layers of fiberglass extending 12″ to either side of the centerline from the bow to the rudderpost, and a double lamination on the keel flange, a Lloyd’s requirement.
The hull is additionally strengthened by solid fiberglass stringers, and beams running athwartships that are bonded to the hull with S-glass. The engine bed is also laminated to the hull, and an aluminum engine bracket is glassed to its timbers so that engine bolts are lagged through the metal piece to the bed.
All of the interior bulkheads, as well as cabinetry and closets, are bonded to the hull before the deck is laid on. Areas around hatches are reinforced with marine-grade plywood.
A company video shows the boat sailing at full speed into a seawall. After the third collision, the boat is hauled, revealing only scrape marks in the bottom paint.
The hull above the waterline as well as the deck are cored with 15-mm Divinycell to provide strength, warmth, and a noise barrier.
The method of attaching deck hardware is unique. Winches and cleats are mounted to 3/4″ thick aluminum backing plates bonded into the deck.
Deck Layout Because the boat is targeted for cruisers who are more likely to hoist a reacher or drifter than a spinnaker, the deck arrangement is rather simple. In fact, there are only four winches. The primary sheet winches are Harken 44 self-tailers, and on the coachroof, to handle halyards, reefing and furling lines there are two Harken 40’s aft of Rutgerson rope clutches. Track for the jib cars is located at the base of the deckhouse and is equipped with Rutgerson cars, as is the mainsheet, which is located at the aft end of the cockpit.
Though there’s adequate room in the cockpit to seat six passengers, and enough length for a 6-footer to stretch out for a nap, we discovered that the steering pedestal can inhibit crew work. The helmsman will find the mainsheet, which is located on the aft coaming of the cockpit, and both jib winches, to be within close reach from the normal steering position. However, because jib winches are well aft, crew will soon discover that moving from windward to leeward will require navigating forward around the front of the pedestal on tacks, or aft of the cockpit. Our test boat was equipped with a storm dodger that extended aft from the five-piece windshield. This arrangement kept us out of the wind on a cold winter day. When tacking, however, we found it difficult to make the trip across the boat in the space between the dodger and front of the pedestal.
With 16″ of pathway between the teak toerail and the cabin trunk, movement fore and aft is easy; additionally, boats are equipped with double lifelines, stainless steel stanchions, a bow pulpit and pulpits on each corner of the stern. So, with the addition of jacklines, a crew can operate in relative safety, even at night. The boat is a 9/10 fractional rig, which we think performs more like a typical masthead rig. The mast is a tapered, double spreader Selden spar supported by 3/8″ wire standing rigging. Standard equipment includes a Furlex headsail furler, hard vang, topping lift, and hand-cranked backstay adjuster. The sail inventory consists of a 5.7-ounce Dacron Elvstrom mainsail with car sliding system and two reef points. Buyers can opt for a conventional, fully-battened main, or an in-mast furling mainsail at no additional cost. Selection of the furling mainsail reduces the size of the mainsail by 75 square feet, and the ability to shape the sail.
Stowage on the deck is in several large areas. The bow area has a chain locker large enough for an electric winch, as well as 100′ of 3/8″ chain, and rope. The stainless steel double roller, which houses a 44-lb. CQR anchor, is designed to can’tilever downwards when the anchor is lowered. This simplifies the task while avoiding damage to the gelcoat. A second stowage area aft of the locker is large enough for dock lines and fenders, and the windlass motor.
Stowage to starboard in the stern is designated for fire extinguishers; to port is a locker for propane tanks. European boats are typically plumbed for butane, so the aft compartment of boats headed for North America must be modified to provide space for propane tanks, since sizes and shapes are dramatically different. The compartment is properly vented overboard.
The stern is clearly designed for the casual cruiser. It houses a two-step swim platform equipped with a stainless steel ladder hinged to go in the water, and a freshwater shower. The emergency rudder mounts outboard on the platform. Long-distance cruisers will be challenged by the engineering necessary to mount a mechanical wind vane.
Belowdecks The generous beam of the Bavaria 38 Ocean provides large, comfortable spaces in which to lounge and sleep. The workmanship is of a quality found in boats costing considerably more.
The layout of the saloon is fairly typical, with the galley and the engine compartment beneath the companionway. A folding dining table and 6′ 6″ settee are located to port. A similarly sized settee is to starboard, forward of the nav station. The head, with doors from the saloon or the skipper’s stateroom, is to starboard.
The boat is particularly well ventilated by four deck hatches, three forward and one in the aft stateroom, and four opening ports on each side of the deckhouse. We found the boat to be well lighted, even on a cloudy, rainy day.
The master stateroom spans the stern and has a 6′ long, 5′ 6″ wide berth in the center of a compartment having 6′ feet of headroom that is surrounded by finely finished mahogany closets and cabinetry, and heavy, 3″ cushions. Because boats seem to shrink in size in proportion to the number of people aboard, we liked the fact that both staterooms have sitting areas that, albeit small, provide some private space.
The head, which is subdivided by a plastic curtain, is equipped with a single stainless sink, hot and cold water, and a medicine cabinet. The shower area has 6′ of headroom and 30″ of elbow room.
The V-berth measures 6′ 4″ on the centerline, and is 6′ wide at the head, tapering to 18″ at the bow. Cabinetry includes a 43″ tall hanging locker to starboard and a similarly sized cabinet with three shelves to port.
About the only drawbacks we noted were the lack of a good, tight sea berth or two, and the size of working space available in the navigation station and galley, which oppose each other amidships near the companionway. But while one might wish them larger, the space would have to be subtracted from the dining area and head. One must remember that despite its great beam, this boat is still just 38′ LOA. The working surface on the nav station is only 22″ deep and 38″ wide. The galley runs fore and aft, and is equipped with a double stainless steel sink, two burner stove, and an L-shaped countertop. There’s adequate working space on the 24″ x 66″ countertop when the stove is covered. However, when the stove is in use, 24″ of countertop are lost, so the cook may have to use the dining table for preparations.
The boat’s mechanical systems are well-conceived and executed.
The engine compartment is accessible by removing the companionway steps, and via a removable panel in the galley. This permits one to work on all four sides of the engine. The Whitlock cable steering system is directly overhead and easy to inspect or service.
Wiring and plumbing are accessible by removing wooden panels in the back of stowage compartments. We found all wiring to be bundled and wrapped every 6″, which reduces the possibility of chafe. Through-hulls are bronze with stainless steel ball valves, and all hoses and manifolds are accessible and double clamped. Though the headliner is not removable, deck hardware fasteners can be inspected by removing mahogany covers attached to the overhead.
Performance We tested the boat on a rainy day on flat water in wind speeds ranging from 15-22 knots. Whether you like the looks of the five-section permanent windshield is a personal matter, but it certainly affords superior protection from the weather and is easy to see through. The center section opens to provide ventilation. There certainly is a trend amongst cruisers toward hard dodgers or at least hard-top dodgers, and a permanent windscreen is a good foundation from which to design an all-weather enclosure.
Under power, the 50-hp. Volvo Penta, equipped with a fixed, 3-blade prop, powered the boat into 10 knots of wind at 7 knots at 2,500 rpm. We noticed that at 2,100 rpm the noise level belowdecks allowed conversation at normal voice levels; at 2,500 rpm engine noise was more noticeable.
The saildrive has pros and cons. Its horizontal thrust is efficient, but the aluminum housing is vulnerable to corrosion, particularly from stray AC currents in marinas. Owners should monitor the unit carefully. The Wauquiez Pretorien 35 reviewed last month also has a saildrive, and owners were cautioned to regularly replace the zincs and to dive on it for a visual inspection every 90 days.
The boat proved responsive to the helm, and easily turned a tight 360°. She also tracked well in reverse, even in gusty conditions.
Our test boat had both furling main and jib, which will simplify sailhandling for cruising couples. The furling main looked disproportionately small for this size boat. We also learned rather quickly the importance of fully hoisting the main; if there’s a scallop at the tack, the sail will not furl into the mast.
We began the test sail with a full main and 150% genoa and discovered very quickly that we were overcanvassed. We shortened the jib to about 90% and in this configuration we sailed comfortably to within 40° of the apparent wind at just less than 6 knots. The boat tracked well. Because the jib sheeting angle is 16°, it is unlikely the boat will sail closer to the wind. Speed increased to 7.5 knots when we footed off and sailed at 85°, but she became less stable so we further reduced the headsail. She proved more manageable at 120°.
We suspect that owners will be motoring until wind speed reaches 6-8 knots, and using the 150% genoa until wind speed reaches 10 knots. In stiffer breezes, she’ll need a shortened headsail or reef in the main. However, with a properly balanced sailplan, we think most cruisers will find the boat manageable and comfortable.
Sailors in gusty conditions, such as San Francisco Bay, will find a sail inventory consisting of main and genoa to be adequate; the need for a light air drifter or reacher will become apparent where winds are lighter.
Conclusion We think the Bavaria is an exceptionally well-built boat. She’s finely finished; gelcoat surfaces are smooth; and joinerwork is of the highest quality. Crew and guests will find accommodations below to be spacious and well-appointed.
The Bavaria 38 Ocean comes well-equipped with brand-name hardware, Par head, Espar forced-air heater, and a Coolmatic 12-volt refrigeration system that fared poorly in our December 1, 1996 test. Though securing foreign replacement parts can be a headache, the North American distributor maintains a modest inventory of post-1992 parts for all Bavaria yachts.
The boat comes with an extensive list of standard equipment such as teak cockpit seating and sole, ICOM VHF radio, Autohelm ST 50 instruments, dodger, windlass and anchor with 165′ of chain.
Given current exchange rates and a sailaway price of $189,900 (US), fob Seattle, or $182,990 (US), fob Annapolis, we think the boat is a very good value. For comparison, the somewhat larger Jeanneau 40 Deck Saloon 40 lists at $190,000 and the superb but somewhat smaller Halberg Rassy 36 at a bit under $200,000. A more run-of-the-mill production boat, such as the Beneteau Oceanis 381, starts at $138,000.
Contact- Yacht Sales West, Unit B, 2144 Westlake Ave. N, Seattle, WA, 98109; 206/378-0081. In Canada, Yacht Sales West, 1523 Foreshore Walk, Vancouver, BC, Canada; 604/488-1202.
RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR
Leave a reply cancel reply.
Log in to leave a comment
Latest Videos
Cabo Rico 34 Boat Review
Super Shallow Draft Sailboat: The Leeboard Sharpie
Hans Christian 41T – Boat Review
Seven dead after superyacht sinks off Sicily. Was the crew at...
Latest sailboat review.
- Privacy Policy
- Do Not Sell My Personal Information
- Online Account Activation
- Privacy Manager
- Sailing the Bavaria 46 Cruiser: elegant, fast and great handling
One of our most frequently chartered boats, t he Bavaria 46 Cruiser sailing boat accommodates up to 9 crew members, and is frequently praised for its spaciousness and comfort, as well as its handling characteristics — something the manufacturer also promotes. But one thing is for sure, it is almost unrivalled when it comes to comfort, luxury and space.
Racing or cruising yacht?
Not only is this yacht in the cruiser category (think holiday boat), but it’s currently part of one of the largest one-design fleets in Croatia. This is why every year it is used at the infamous Yachting.com races — Easter Regatta and Palagruža Cup . Each year around 50 Bavaria 46 Cruisers meet at the start of the Easter Regatta and race along the Croatian coast from Murter to Dubrovnik and back. An additional gennaker can be rented from the charter company which means the boat can sail very fast despite not being primarily designed for racing.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Are you thinking of renting a gennaker on your next sailing adventure. Check out our article to find out why you should definitely give it a go — 5 reasons to rent a gennaker .
Who are the designers behind the yacht?
The Bavaria 46 Cruiser , in production at Bavaria Yachts since 2014, is designed by the world-famous Farr Yacht Design (founded by Bruce Farr and Russell Bowler). Farr Yacht Design has been behind the design of nearly a hundred mass-produced vessels, among the most famous being, beside Bavaria, the Beneteau First 35, 36.7, 40.7, the racing boats Farr 30, 280, 400 as well as the Bavaria B/One.
What came before and after?
The predecessor to this Bavaria 46 Cruiser was a boat of the same name, designed by J&J Design and is easily recognisable thanks to the blue stripe on the hull and across the classic oval windows that were typical of this generation of boats. Apparently, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser has been upgraded for 2022, so we look forward to trying this out as well.
How well-equipped is the sailboat?
As we previously mentioned, this is one of the most popular holiday boats in Croatia and rightfully won the European Boat of the Year in 2015 in the Family Cruiser category. What we appreciate the most is its incredibly comfortable and immense swim platform , which is easily big enough to dance on. And also worth a mention is the spacious, practically designed galley, where you can whip up proper meals just like you would at home. The seating under the spacious bimini and sprayhood is pleasant, providing shelter from the wind in the cockpit and the lamp on the cockpit table makes it wonderfully romantic in the evening.
How does the boat handle?
As this is a holiday cruiser, don't expect racing speeds and as it is a fairly heavy boat (over 12 tonnes), casting off and sailing in light winds can be a bit of a struggle. In powerful winds, however, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser heels quite well , doesn't spin out easily and the gennaker makes for a lot of fun. Just be aware that even though the sailboat does have a gennaker, it isn’t really designed to accommodate one due to the sharp anchor protruding from the bow. This means the gennaker could catch and tear on the anchor while tacking or as a result of a gust of wind. Better would be to move the anchor (not really recommended for safety reasons) or wrap it with cardboard, plastic or foam.
More tips for sailing in Croatia, where the Bavaria 46 Cruiser is popular:
What sails is it equipped with.
Having a furling mainsail allows for easy raising, lowering and reefing of the sails, but makes advanced sail trim impossible. For upwind, the sail area is 107 m 2 whilst for downwind with the gennaker, it’s 206 m 2 .
In Croatia you will find the charter Bavarias are equipped exclusively with an in-mast furling mainsail.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Hand on heart, do you really know all the types of foresail or the difference between a jib, a genoa and a 130? What does a spinnaker look like and what range of extra sails can you order with a charter sailboat? Check out our article to find out everything you need to know about basic and additional sails .
How many cabins are there?
Available in three- or four-cabin versions, both include three full bathrooms with a toilet and a very spacious saloon where 2 more people can sleep. The galley is located along the port side of the boat.
Bavaria 46 Cruiser specifications
The specifications reflect the fact that the boat is classified as an offshore cruiser , where comfort, space and ease of operation are the main considerations.
The displacement of the boat is 12.6 t, 28 % of which is on the keel. The overall length of the boat is 14.27 m, with a waterline length of 12.74 m and its width is 4.35 m with standard draught of 2.1 m.
Powered by a 55-hp Volvo Penta saildrive engine, the boat is equipped with 2 steering wheels, 2 rudder blades and an L-shaped keel. The diesel tank holds an impressive 210 litres and the water tank 360 litres.
Who do we recommend this boat for?
If you’re expecting great sporting performance, perfect upwind handling or speeds above the 12 kn mark, then look at other options. However, if you're looking for the ideal boat for a summer holiday and are more concerned about comfort, spaciousness and ease of handling , this sailboat is definitely worth considering and would make a good choice. Thanks to its sturdiness, space and weight, it will provide a feeling of security even under the worst conditions and with an electric swim platform over 2.2 m long and almost 1 m wide, this yacht offers luxurious levels of comfort when swimming and sunbathing . A sprayhood and large bimini covering the entire cockpit come as standard on every charter Bavaria 46 Cruiser and the spacious cockpit with its generously-sized table, provides the perfect conditions for dining during the summer months.
We have extensive personal experience with the Bavaria 46, so if you have a question, don't hesitate to ask.
Denisa Nguyenová
Faq about the bavaria 46.
Yachting Monthly
- Digital edition
First look: Bavaria C46 – proven concept, bigger size
- Theo Stocker
- February 10, 2023
The new Bavaria C46 follows hot on the heels of an impressive C38 and C42, and should deliver plenty of volume below without sacrificing sailing comfort
Product Overview
We tested the latest Bavaria C45 in 2018, which at the time was the first Cossutti designed Bavaria in that size range. Just five years later, Bavaria are bringing out a boat just one foot longer, although for the time being they say that the older boat will remain in the lineup.
The Bavaria C46 will follow in the footsteps of the Bavaria C38 and Bavaria C42 in maximising hull volume with full-length hull chines and a wide beam of 4.7m carried all the way aft. The hull is controlled with a single, deep and balanced spade rudder, and seakindliness is improved by a v-bow section in the forefoot – a concept that appeared to work well when I tested the C38, making the Bavaria C46’s smaller sister engaging and enjoyable to sail despite the large volume.
Where the new Bavaria C46 really shines, however, is the sheer amount of space and accommodation on board. The only fixed point of the accommodation is the saloon and galley, with C-shaped seating around a table to starboard with a bench seat amidships, and a large C-shaped galley along the hull side to port. Aft of the galley is a forward facing chart table – these are making their way back onto boats as remote working from on board is now commonplace.
Plenty of volume makes for a very spacious interior.
This is where the options kick in. The boat comes in three, four, or five cabin layouts, with either one or two double cabins forwards. The fifth comes from replacing the heads and shower compartment starboard aft with a bunk cabin, meaning two families of five could comfortably sail together.
For those looking to cruise without so many guests, the port heads and chart table can be replaced with a utility room, making space for washing machines and dryers, as well as ample stowage space for tools or as a wet locker.
If you go for the four double cabin layout, you can also have en suite heads for every cabin. Some of these layouts will appeal more for charter companies, but the drawings look like Bavaria have got the heart of the boat right, and highly practical.
On deck, the cockpit is wider than it is long, with L-shaped seats on either side around either one or two cockpit tables, which convert to sunpads. Most lines are led aft to the helm stations, though some options have coaming-top genoa winches. Genoa car tracks are mounted on the coachroof for a fine sheeting angle.
There isn’t an option to have boom-end mainsheet attachment sadly, but otherwise this all looks like a sensible and easily-handled boat.
Bavaria C46 specifications
LOA: 14.50m / 47ft 6in LOA with bowsprit: 14.91m / 48ft 9in Hull length: 13.95m / 45ft 8in LWL: 13.32m / 43ft 7in Beam: 4.70m / 15ft 4in Draught: 2.30m / 7ft 2in Draught (shoal): 1.75m / 5ft 7in Sail area: 115m2 Ballast: 2,575kg / 5,677 lbs Displacement: 12,730kg / 28,065 lbs Builder: bavariayachts.com
Enjoyed reading this?
A subscription to Yachting Monthly magazine costs around 40% less than the cover price .
Print and digital editions are available through Magazines Direct – where you can also find the latest deals .
YM is packed with information to help you get the most from your time on the water.
- Take your seamanship to the next level with tips, advice and skills from our experts
- Impartial in-depth reviews of the latest yachts and equipment
- Cruising guides to help you reach those dream destinations
Follow us on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram.
Visit our Popular Forums
- Monohull Sailboats
- Multihull Sailboats
- Powered Boats
- General Sailing
- Antares Yachts
- Fountaine Pajot
- Lagoon Catamarans
Cruising Business
- Boat Classifieds
- General Classifieds
- Crew Positions
- Commercial Posts
- Vendor Spotlight
Life Aboard a Boat
- Provisioning: Food & Drink
- Families, Kids, & Pets Afloat
- Recreation, Entertainment, & Fun
- Boat Ownership & Making a Living
- Liveaboard's Forum
Seamanship, Navigation & Boat Handling
- Seamanship & Boat Handling
- Training, Licensing, & Certification
- Health, Safety, & Related Gear
- Rules of the Road, Regulations, & Red Tape
Engineering & Systems
- Const. / Maint. / Refit
- Product / Service Reviews
- Electronics: Comms / AV
- Electrical: Batts / Gen / Solar
- Lithium Power Systems
- Engines & Propulsion
- Propellers & Drive Systems
- Plumbing / Fixtures
- Deck Hdw: Rigging / Sails
- Aux. Equipment & Dinghy
- Anchoring & Mooring
Photo Categories
- Member Galleries
- Life Onboard
- Sailing in the Wind
- Power Boats
- Cruising Destinations
- Maint. & Boat Building
- Marine Life
- Scuba Diving & Divers
- General Photos
Recent Photos
Listing Categories
- African Cats
- view more »
- Crew Wanted
- Crew Available
- Enhance Your Account
- Meet the Mods
- Meet the Advisors
- Signup for The Daily Cruiser Email
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
COMMENTS
Sailboat Review: Bavaria C38. The forward-thinking design on the C38 leaves plenty of space in the bow for an owner's en suite stateroom with a king-size berth. For the past several years, practically all of the design surprises that have caught my eye on new sailboats have been abaft the mast. In no particular order, these innovative features ...
The first new "C-Line" Bavaria, the C42, designed by Maurizio Cossutti and Alessandro Ganz, was a surprise success in Europe in 2020 and pulled down some major awards there. The new Bavaria C38 is the second of the new breed, a slightly downsized version of its predecessor, which shares many design and construction features. Design ...
Bavaria Yachts, the company, gained new owners in 2018, and they've been quick to make a fresh start, starting with a plan to update the entire range. Having moved from design house J&J to Cossutti Design, the C38 is the latest, smallest boat in the new lineup. The strongly chined hull shape makes a bold statement about that new direction.
To me, the Bavaria Cruiser 33 is an excellent case in point. High freeboard, short overhangs and generous beam equate to a roomy interior, and the Cruiser 33 also sails well. Accommodations. The saloon, with its 6ft 1in of headroom, and the cabin arrangements are both straightforward and eminently practical.
Boat Reviews. Boat Review: Bavaria C57. Author: Zuzana Prochazka. Updated: Jul 30, 2024. Original: Oct 4, 2019. German engineering meets Italian design. There is much new going on at Bavaria Yachts. Only a few months under new ownership and the German builder has already launched a new flagship—the C57, which presumably will be the template ...
This product is featured in: X-Yachts X49 MkII first look: a good boat gets even better. There's no denying that the Bavaria C46 is a beast of a boat. Bluff bowed, big and powerful, she has more volume than almost any boat her size. In some ways, it's no surprise as this is the direction boat design has been going for years, underlined by ...
All of which makes the C42 a crucial new model for a yard on the rebound. This is Maurizio Cossutti's fourth Bavaria design and he opted for a clever and powerful shape, the first Bavaria with ...
Sailboat Review: Bavaria C38. The forward-thinking design on the C38 leaves plenty of space in the bow for an owner's en suite stateroom with a king-size berth. By Mark Pillsbury April 20, 2022. ... Bavaria builds 500-plus sailboats a year at its factory in Germany, and the C38 is the smallest in the five-boat Cossutti-designed C line; the ...
A review from our January 2009 issue. A tour of the Bavaria 38 Cruiser reveals a philosophical difference between Bavaria Yachts and the other major European builders of cruising sailboats: Bavaria hasn't adapted the Ikea style of furniture to its boat's interiors. Further, the company has held on to some of the traditional features ...
The 50 Cruiser, though, and the crew from Bavaria managed to command my full attention as we motored out and back, the 75-horsepower Volvo and optional Gori propeller pushing us along at a very respectable cruising speed of 7.6 knots at 2,200 rpm and at 8.5 knots or better with the engine wide open. For yuks, I throttled back and threw the ...
Competition is hot for high volume cruisers, but have Bavaria built a boat that is fun to sail as well as spacious and affordable? Theo Stocker took her for ...
Designer: Farr Design/Design Unlimited. Builder: Bavaria Yachtbau . www.bavaria-yachtbau.com. UK agent: Clipper Marine, +44 (0)23 8060 5060, www.clippermarine.co.uk. Follow Sailing Today on Facebook and Twitter. As I mentioned in my report on the Bavaria Vision a few months ago there seems to have been a step change at the Bavaria yard in ...
Sailboat Reviews; Sailboats 36-40ft; used_sailboats; Bavaria 38 Ocean ... the North American distributor maintains a modest inventory of post-1992 parts for all Bavaria yachts. The boat comes with an extensive list of standard equipment such as teak cockpit seating and sole, ICOM VHF radio, Autohelm ST 50 instruments, dodger, windlass and ...
The Bavaria Cruiser 34 is spry with the sails down and motoring with her Volvo Penta 20hp diesel and three-bladed folding propeller. (An upgrade to 30hp is available.) At wide-open-throttle, we reached 7.3 knots at 3,050 rpm. A nice cruising speed is 6.2 knots at 2,500 rpm. Tankage is 33 gal for both fuel and water.
Sailing the Bavaria 46 Cruiser: elegant, fast and great handling. A fantastic all-rounder, the Bavaria 46 Cruiser is a sleek, fast, manoeuvrable, well-finished, and well-equipped sailing boat. Read our review to find out why it has become the most popular rental boat for a summer vacation. Published by Yachting.com - 14. 09.
The Bavaria Cruiser 34 replaces the previous Cruiser 33 and has a foam core sandwich hull and deck created with an infused construction, which brings her displacement in at under 12,000 pounds. This boat is the first in the company's line to be infused, and other models are set to follow. The Farr design feels a bit smaller than her ...
The hull is controlled with a single, deep and balanced spade rudder, and seakindliness is improved by a v-bow section in the forefoot - a concept that appeared to work well when I tested the C38, making the Bavaria C46's smaller sister engaging and enjoyable to sail despite the large volume. Where the new Bavaria C46 really shines, however ...
Boat Reviews. Best Boats 2015: Bavaria Cruiser 37. Bavaria 37 has a whole new look for a very capable cruiser with a hull design by Farr, twin helms, reconfigured cabintrunk, and a high-aspect ratio jib ... Bavaria's Cruiser 36 received mixed reviews when it was launched a few years back—not because of its sailing abilities, but because of ...
Designer J&J Design. Price $203,500. Bavaria Yachts. (410) 990-0007. www.bavariayachts.com. More: 2001 - 2010, 31 - 40 ft, bavaria, Coastal Cruising, monohull, Sailboat Reviews, Sailboats. This handsome cruiser is more than just a floating accommodations plan. A boat review from our August 2009 issue.
U.S. Distributor Bavaria Yachts USA, Annapolis, MD, 855-222-1120. PRICE $171,452 base. Photos courtesy of Bavaria Yachts. It's funny how quickly things that once seemed revolutionary can become the norm. Created by Farr Yacht Design and BMW Group DesignworksUSA, the Bavaria Cruiser 36 comes standard with an in-mast furling main, fixed hull ...
the Bavaria saga. I am one of those Bavaria owners, bought new in 2001 and agree with just about everything that John (swagman) wrote. One thing to look at are the changes in the Bavarias over the years. Most feel that BAV quality over the years is on the decline as prices dictate ever more what rolls out the front door.
The Bavaria 39 has a three-cabin layout, two aft and one forward; in a 39-foot boat, that pretty much dictates an along-the-side galley in the saloon. This boat certainly has enough beam to carry it off, and the galley is workable on either tack by virtue of the high seat back on the island settee that completes the four-sided dining area.
Jeremy McGeary reviews this aft cockpit cruiser for the CW 2009 Sailboat Show. Bavaria Yachts continues to flesh out its new cruising line with the aft-cockpit 43 Cruiser, which supercedes the Bavaria 42 Cruiser. It has twin steering wheels, opening up the cockpit for easy access to the large swim platform in the transom.