The Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 vs Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 tops out at 40 hp. Engine specs for the Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 aren't listed — confirm with a dealer before selecting an outboard.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 carries 137 gallons versus 55 gallons in the Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 is rated for 12 passengers, while the Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 could be the deciding factor.
The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 has a documented displacement of 21 605 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Draft is a practical consideration that many buyers underestimate until they're already at the marina. The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 draws 6,1 ft, compared to 2,2 ft for the Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017. That 3,9-foot difference affects which anchorages you can access, which haul-out facilities will take you, and how carefully you need to read the tide tables in shallower cruising grounds.
The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 has a documented auxiliary engine of 40 hp.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 carries 55 gallons versus 32 gallons on the Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Bavaria Yachts Vision 42 Standard/Shoal Draft 2012 at 42,0 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Bavaria Yachts S29 Open 2017 at 30,0 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.