Buying Used Sun Odysee 54DS (2006 verses 2008)

[jcody]

I am currently looking at two 54DS (2006 and a 2008). One has the layout with the large after Cabin and the other the master is in the bow with two cabins in the back. One has teak decks and one does not. One has inner stay sail on furler and the other does not.  Other features are pretty easy to compare such as latest electronics/Nav gear, solar, wind etc.

They are asking roughly 100K more for the 2008 verses the 2006 - I was wondering if other owners of the 54DS might be able to comment on what specifically to look for that might set one from the other? For example the teak decks, do they typically cause any issues (I know they are expensive to replace). Standing rigging. I am trying to confirm but it appears neither has had the rigging replaced ever? Engine hours and generator hours are roughly the same with the older boat being a little more but in line with 2 more years of use?

What other big $$ items should I be concerned about?

Is there a big difference between 2006 and 2008 or is it pretty much the same build?

What about the layout? Is one much better than the other or just personal preference?

Anything you might be able to provide to help me compare apples to apples between the two boats would be great?

Thanks in advance for your time in replying.

[Zanshin]

Congratulations on the tough choices you are faced with

Where are these J54's and have either, or both, been in charter?

- I like teak decks. Once a year they get a light scrubbing with oxalic acid and that's the only care I take of them. Jeanneau glues the decks rather than screws them in, so leaks are unlikely.

The rigging should still be good, although the sails probably need replacing.

I've had the main cabin aft (in my J57) and forward (in the 49DS) and both have their advantages. I prefer the main cabin aft. But due to the hull shape there will sometimes be slap on sugar scoop which can be bothersome while trying to sleep.