www.iFourWinns.com

My wife and I have narrowed our new boat search down to 4 models:

Four Winns 318
Four Winns 338
Chaparral 310
Chaparral 330

We are now searching for a late model boat (2005 or later). There are a number out there, so finding 1 of these models should not be too difficult (especially since we are in no big rush because of the time of year).

While I expect a bias toward the FW on this board, I was hoping to get some open opinions, good and bad, about these models.

As a side note, we currently have a 2004 Monterey 265 cruiser.

Thanks in advance, John

Hi John & Welcome!

From my own experience a year ago, the Chap 350 was on the list of competition to check out during my search. On the website it looked like it was going to be a solid competitor (great VR tour). When I had the chance to get on one I found the feeling of quality and fit and finish, while not bad, to be substandard to Four Winns which is why I crossed it off the list. Not knowing if you have spent time on the boats you listed I don't know if you observed the same thing. The 318 and 338 seem to have the same quality construction as the 358 from the limited time I have spent on them at the dealer's showroom. And while they are both terrific boats, I encourage you to go for the 338 if you are able. As you have no doubt heard before, you really feel the difference in a boat's size in its beam and the 338 is 11'6" vs. 10'9" in the 318. I'm certain there are deals to be had at this time of year.

Best of luck in your search and if you have any more specific questions, ask away!

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Previously:
2008 V358/Volvo 5.7 GXi Inboards

Thanks, Sierra. Yes, the larger boat is my preference, but I believe that I will be happy with either from a size perspective. (Yeah, I know, I am saying that NOW...wait until foot fever strikes yet again.)

I have been able to view several Chaparral models, including a 2009 310. I have not been on the 330 yet. Both my wife and I are happy with the Chap quality, and I anticipate the Four Winns fit/finish to be just as good or better. Visually, I think the FWs profile is superior to the Chap.

As for getting onto a FW 318 or 338, the problem is that I cannot find one in my area. I live in Rochester, NY, and the FW dealer is 3 miles from my home, but does not stock cruisers. I have also tried Buffalo and Syracuse with no luck. If anyone knows where I can see one of these boats in person, let me know! Even driving up to Toronto is only a few hours.

Thanks, John

P&L Boat Sales in Pittsburgh.
412-323-1010
Ask for Ed

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Bridgewater, PA
2008 Vista 318

Good old Ed..... I bought my 248 at P&L and never had people spend so much time with me and yet not come across as pushy.

Great people!

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Brett DiMichele

While there is no such thing as a perfect boat, there are differences out there. I have friends with chapparels and have spent time on them.

Most of the Chaps do not have walk arounds only a walk-thru windshield. Fine for some but I sure like FW's that have both walk around and walk-thrus.

Chaps have their windshield wiper units (motors) mounted directly to the top of the windshield. To me this just takes away from the lines of the boat and looks like an aftermarket job. Same with some of the peripheral antennae Just outside the helm station.

Interior fit and finish is comparable, however, with Chaps the materials used do not scream luxury the way FW's do. On the plus side for not having walk around gunwales, the room they take up shows up down below. I think the Chaps have much more room b/c of this.

It is all trade offs. My friends with Chaps swear by them and the local dealer of course makes a difference if you buy new!

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2008 Four Winns V358 (T 6.2L Merc Bravo III's with DTS and SeaCore)
2006 Sea Ray 340DA
2006 Sea Ray 320DA
2005 Maxum 3100 SE