The Beneteau First 345 1983 vs Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 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.
On paper these two are close siblings in the size department — Beneteau First 345 1983 at 36,1 ft versus Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 at 36,9 ft. Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 tips the scales at 14 617 lbs — 3 373 lbs less than the Beneteau First 345 1983 at 11 244 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The power gap is worth calling out. Rated to 40 hp, the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 has a 22-hp advantage over the Beneteau First 345 1983's 18-hp ceiling — enough to notice on acceleration and at cruising speed, particularly with a full passenger load. Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 carries 33 gallons versus 23 gallons in the Beneteau First 345 1983. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
Both boats are rated for 11 passengers — a good fit for a family of four or five plus guests. Comfort at capacity is another matter; the longer hull typically means more seat options and better weight distribution.
Displacement is where these two sailboats genuinely part ways. The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 displaces 14 617 lbs — a 3 373-lb difference over the Beneteau First 345 1983 at 11 244 lbs. That gap separates two entirely different categories of sailing: the heavier boat is built for offshore passage-making and load-carrying, while the lighter hull rewards performance sailing and easier handling in lighter air.
Both boats draw a similar depth — 6,2 ft and 6,1 ft respectively. Marina access and anchorage options should be broadly equivalent between the two.
The Beneteau First 345 1983 uses fractional_rig_sloop rigging. For auxiliary power the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 carries a 40-hp engine against 18 hp on the Beneteau First 345 1983. Motoring range and ability to punch through a foul current or enter a tight marina under power will favour the more powerful installation.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 373 2008 is the offshore and bluewater choice — at 14 617 lbs displacement and 37 ft it has the load capacity, range, and seakeeping for extended passages. The Beneteau First 345 1983 at 11 244 lbs is the more nimble, accessible option — easier to single-hand and better suited to coastal and inland sailing.