Hi Mythryal,

We're about to make an offer on a Beneteau Oceanis 461. We plan to go long-term cruising with our two small boys, starting in Australia and making our way around and back via Cape Town, Europe and Panama in 4 to 5 years.

If you had about $150k in your pocket, planning to do what we are, would the 461 be at the top of your shortlist? If not, why and what would you buy in stead?

We like the 461 a lot. It has great design credentials (Bruce Farr) for fast passage making, the space and comfort we need and a shallow draft allowing us to cruise most places. My concerns are:

1. Not sure I like the linear outboard galley. Are the sinks an issue (to drain) when on starboard tack?
2. Motion in big seas - she's relatively light and flat bottomed compared to some traditional boats.
3. Reliability and vulnerability of the spade rudder. Have you had any damage issues or stiff bearings?

Thanks in advance for your time and trouble!

Gerhard & Gilli