Hello Everyone,
I'd like to start by introducing myself. My name is Marcin, I'm 38 years old, and although I'm new to this forum, I've been a proud Bavaria owner for quite some time.
In 2022, I purchased a Bavaria 44 Ocean (2004) from its original owner, who had spent many years sailing around the Mediterranean. The boat is in excellent condition—well maintained and equipped for long-distance cruising.
Over the past four seasons, my wife, our 4-year-old child, and I have spent about six months each year living aboard and exploring the Mediterranean. It's been an incredible journey, but now we're at a crossroads and considering our next steps.
I'd love to hear your thoughts: Do you think a well-kept Bavaria Ocean is a boat that can reliably serve a family for the next 10 years and safely carry us around the world? We're weighing the idea of switching to a multihull, but as you know, that's a significant investment.
I'm not looking to start a "mono vs. cat" debate—rather, I'm interested in your opinions on setting up the B44 Ocean as a capable ocean-crossing vessel that can take good care of our family. I understand that certain upgrades and renewals will be necessary, but my main concerns are around hull longevity, steering design, and overall structural integrity after years of use.
I'd be truly grateful for any insights or experiences you're willing to share. Thank you so much!
Sharing picture of our lovely Kim Kim.
Warm regards,
Marcin
Fibreglass boats don't really age, only the components do, and those get replaced. So if you keep up with the maintenance, it will be fine. The 44 Ocean is just the right size for three, I think. Our 40 would've been a bit small. You'll probably have to fit some upgrades to prepare, but I don't see why not. It'll certainly be safer than the average modern cruising catamaran >:D
I know of at least one 40 Ocean (Bomika) that has circumnavigated and they did it the hard way, around the capes. Although they did smash it to pieces when surprised by bad weather at anchor in the Beagle channel and then patched it back up and finished the trip. They did publish a book (https://buchshop.bod.de/strandung-am-ende-der-welt-karl-w-bohne-9783735715326)about it, although it's in German language.