BENETEAU 343

About the BENETEAU 343

AKA Oceanis Clipper 343 Displacement above is lightship. At the beginning of the model run, Beneteau reported the displacement of the 343 as 5,380 kg / 11,861 lbs. They also reported the shallow keel as the standard keel (later it became an optional keel) with a draft of 1.45m / 4.75ft and a ballast of 1,960 kg / 4,321 lbs. Additional lifting keel option: draft - 1.20-1.60m / 3.94-5.25ft Rig measurements are for the classic mast. P measurement for the furling mast is 38.65ft / 11.78m

The Beneteau 343, designed by Berret - Racoupeau and built by Beneteau from 2005–2008, is a performance-oriented fractional sloop with a displacement of 13448.0 lb. While the exact hulls built count is unspecified, the model is widely recognized for its fractional rig and fin keel configuration, offering a balance of speed and comfort with a comfort ratio of 25.16.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and active weekend sailors who prioritize performance and interior volume, as evidenced by the high prevalence of Raymarine electronics, North sails, and solar panel installations. It is well-suited for those willing to manage maintenance, given the frequency of reported mechanical and structural issues.

Bluewater capability:

With a capsize ratio of 1.92 and a D/L ratio of 204.88, the 343 is moderately capable offshore, but its bluewater suitability is tempered by critical reports of rudder/shaft failures and deck core moisture issues that require rigorous pre-purchase inspection.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include the Beneteau 34 (previous generation) and the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 34.9, as they share similar fractional rig configurations, beam widths around 11.42 ft, and target the same performance-cruising market segment from the mid-2000s.