Beneteau 323 vs Beneteau 361
How do the Beneteau 323 and Beneteau 361 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Beneteau 323 
Beneteau 361 | Beneteau 323 | Beneteau 361 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 32.8 ft10.01 m | 36.4 ft11.10 m |
| Waterline length | 29.2 ft8.89 m | 31.1 ft9.47 m |
| Beam | 10.8 ft3.28 m | 12.5 ft3.81 m |
| Draft | 4.8 ft1.45 m | 6.0 ft1.83 m |
| Displacement | 9,325 lb4,230 kg | 13,349 lb6,055 kg |
| Ballast | 2,414 lb1,095 kg | 4,156 lb1,885 kg |
| Sail area | 542 ft²50.4 m² | 592 ft²55.0 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 19.57 | 16.83 |
| Displacement / Length | 168 | 198 |
| Comfort ratio | 20.1 | 21.8 |
| Capsize screening | 2.04 | 2.11 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.2 | 7.5 |
Beneteau 323 vs Beneteau 361: the short version
- The Beneteau 361 is the larger boat at 36.4 ft11.10 m LOA versus 32.8 ft10.01 m for the Beneteau 323.
- The Beneteau 361 is heavier, displacing about 43% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Beneteau 323 carries the more powerful rig (19.6 vs 16.8), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Beneteau 361 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Beneteau 323 rates better for offshore work (2.04 vs 2.11).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.