Ranger tug 31 or beneteau st 34

[Northend]

I'm looking for advice from some seasoned trawler owners on my next purchase. I'm considering my next (and last) trawler purchase and have narrowed it down to the Ranger Tug 31 and Beneteau ST34. Normally, these would be my last choice in boats, but my brain (not heart) is moving them to top of my list.

I'm looking for a boat for my wife and I with occasional guest couples to enjoy marina life and occasional cruises of a week or two from homeport. Length of ownership will probably be 5 years. Must be able to easily single-hand the boat, so somewhere around 30-40 feet LOA would be my preference. However, most importantly, I'm hoping to be free of major maintenance issues for my time of ownership. A single-engine boat seems to be the best choice.

I've looked at a number of solid traditional trawlers, including Kadey Krogen (my personal fav), Nordic Tugs, and Grand Banks. Love them all for their specific attributes. I will not finance my purchase and aim to keep the price under $300K. At this price point, the above mentioned brands available are older boats; typically between 1998-2003. I've seen some nice examples of each, but they all for short as to my desire for low maintenance. Some one-owner 32/34 Nordic Tugs, have surfaced that might work, but small rear cockpit and poor side-walks to bow make these more "inside" boats than I desire.

Even though I'm in love with the essence of traditional trawlers I've narrowed it to the canned-production models of the RT31 and ST34 for specific reasons. Both are single-engine designs. To stay with my budget, both could be found in late model versions, hence maintenance issues should be routine rather than major. The RT has better engine access than the ST and the RT engine is positioned outside the cabin (presumably quieter while underway). The RT, being built in the U.S., should also have better customer support. On the other hand, The RT has horrible access to the bow, making it tougher to get around the deck. Unlike the ST with a large covered walkway and nice rear cockpit, mimicking a Europa design. Interior finish of the RT are nice, mostly teak, compared to the IKEA-type build of the ST. However, the RT is cabin is crammed with stuff making moving around and daily lounging somewhat unpleasant.

Could anyone help me make the a good decision? Thanks, mates...

 

[JLD]

Personally, I like the 3' wider beam on the Beneteau Swift.

I like the smaller Ranger Tugs as they are, relatively, easy to trailer. But I wouldn't want to trailer any boat above 30' so why limit oneself to a 10' beam?

Jim

 

[4fun1]

I had a ST 34 and a dockmate had the Ranger 31.

He always said ours was much better. It is way roomier. Less rolly. More storage space. Better on rainy days.

Engine access was a little challenge on the ST but not a problem if you use a different table in the salon. The engine compartment was well insulated so noise was not an issue.

On the RT the engine access is in the cockpit but not that roomy.

The flybridge on the ST is way better. I never seen them use the flybridge on the RT. Probably to tippy.

The ST also has a large lazarette for storage, the RT does not.

You easily single hand the ST with the side door and large walkways. With the bow and stern thrusters it makes docking pretty easy. My friend was impressed how more powerful our thrusters were compared to his.

I have since moved up to the ST44.

 

[Lollygag1]

ST 34 for more room and comfort.

 

[Northend]

RT31 Vs. ST34

Thanks people, I agree the ST has more room, much more user friendly. I question how the interior finish holds up over time. Is it a high-quality laminate that looks good in older models?

 

[CarlF]

The great thing about laminate is that it looks the same 50 years from now - except where it is scratched or chipped. Unlike varnished wood which scratches if you look sideways at it, laminate needs some real abuse to show damage. Of course, unlike wood there's really no way to fix laminate once damaged

So before buying a boat examine the laminate carefully and decide if any damage is a problem to you. And during the 5 years you plan to own this boat, just be careful with tools and metal implements around the laminate.

 

[firehoser75]

Maintenance is a fact of life with a boat. Either that, or await breakdowns (which can occur anyway, but usually less often with good maintenance).

Some of what you say is important for one boat, you contradict yourself with another. For example, you say the lack of "wide" side decks is an issue with the NT 34, but you are willing to accept much less access, especially to the bow where that is important for anchoring, on the Ranger 31? Any Rangers I have been on board tend to be very "rolly". Eg. when boarding from the dock, the boat will "list over" a fair amount compared to most other boats. I have not been out on a Ranger, so I cannot comment on their stability underway.
My advice would be to not focus on just these 2 boats, but to keep your eye open for the other boats you mentioned (American Tug as well) if you can find one that has been very well maintained (with records). A good KK, NT, or AT that has been well loved and maintained, even if a bit older, could meet your needs giving you the 5 years you are looking for while also maintaining a good resale value (good being relative). You may have to look for bit, but I am sure one will come along.
Anyway, good luck with your decision, and if I had to choose between the 2 you seem to have settled on, I would pick the Beney, but I don't know a whole lot about them. I am not personally a big Ranger fan, but that is just my opinion.

 

[Benthic2]

There are a few 10 year old models on Yachtworld that look pretty good.

Cummins vs Volvo might be an issue for some

Would you ever want to trailer it ?

 

[rsn48]

With your budget you could get a nice used Nordic Tug 37.

 

[firehoser75]

+1 on the NT 37 , but that is my opinion (and choice), not everyone's "cup of tea".

There are 17-20 year old examples out there that have been exceptionally well maintained.

 

[Northend]

Rt31 vs. St34

THE INPUT IS GREAT. Since I would not trailer the boat, and the narrow side-decks on the RT, and I think the CB would be folly, I'm leaning to the ST34 as my best choice. Although, I agree with some here that the more traditional boats might be better because of resale, and they are after all, classic trawlers. Price-wise, the Nordic Tug 34 is likely the best alternative for me.

NT has narrow side-deck, but better engine access, great pilothouse, and good lounging deck above the salon. The ST has a CB, more airy salon, wide side deck, 2nd bunk cabin, but no pilot house.

I've seen nice examples of both well under my $300K mark. While a nice older KK is usually over $300K, and an older GB without something needing major restoration doesn't exist.

What do you all think about a NT34 (or perhaps an older NT37 in great shape) vs. the ST34.

 

[4fun1]

Just as an FYI. I sold my ST 34 this October in 3 weeks. I am in New Jersey, not sure what the market is where you are. St 34' s usually don't last long on the market. Of course this year was crazy for selling boats.

 

[rsn48]

A buddy just bought a 1990 Nordic Tug 32 (same size as the 34). And older boat in good shape is not as much a risk as you might think. He got the NT 32 for under $150,000 Canadian. I really like this boat and for our waters is almost the perfect boat.

If you are going to have another couple stay over frequently you might be better off in the NT 37.

 

[sledge]

I know you laid out RT and Bene, but i'd throw back into the mix an American Tug 34. A quick glance at yachtworld has 3 or 4 examples below $300k, one is "sale pending" but is a 2011.
an AT 34 has a beam of 13' 3". note RTs are nice but if you occasionally have another couple join you, an AT would have quite a bit more breathing room inside. it also has the benefit of American-built with the customer service advantage you mentioned.
The AT 34 also can certainly be single-handed, built incredibly well, single engine, etc.
My next choice again for the room would likely be the Nordic.... just MHO

 

[sunchaser]

The Back Cove 32 is my favorite in this size range. The build quality, machinery layout and performance are top notch.

 

[firehoser75]

Northend,
Most boats end up being a compromise!!
I think it would be very rare to find one that meets 100% of your needs and wants. Walk around side decks is a personal choice. Many people would not be without them, while others want a full "wide body" for the interior space. Depends on your wants and choices. Personally, I like what my Nordic Tug (37) offers for side decks (and if I remember correctly the 32/34 has similar). We have narrow side decks that allow me to pass from the bow to cockpit when in calm water like entering the harbour, by holding on to the top deck rail. I don't need to use the side decks any other time except when getting lines and fenders ready. By having only small decks, we don't give up much interior space at all, but still a different compromise compared to either full side decks or wide body. You pick your poison!

Personally, I like the "Tug" style boats and/or others with a pilothouse. Again personal preference. I would recommend looking for the following, but again, the best maintained one you can find:
American Tug 34 (39 maybe too expensive for your budget due to size and age)
Nordic Tug 32 or 37 (37 gives more room and options)
Kadey Krogen 42 (39 maybe outside budget as they are newer)
All of these boats have great support with both "Tugs" being American made and both companies offer great support even for second hand vessels. In the PNW at least, KK offers good support as well, I don't know about in Mass.
The Beneteau will offer faster cruise speed if that is what you desire, but that will come at a fuel cost. The Tugs are capable of 14 knots or so but most owners do not operate them at those speeds (more like 6-9 knots).
Good luck and Happy hunting.

 

[Spinner]

My previous boat was a Ranger Tug 31. I found the bow access (via the helm door) to be perfectly adequate. However, I am a small-ish 5’5” woman; your results may vary. The boat was a good single hand boat, and as noted, with good engine access. There is a lot of storage in the two outboard lazarettes and lots more under the forward bed. I found that getting a full cockpit enclosure really opened up “living space.” No flybridge.

Comparing that boat to a 34 ST isn’t really an apples to apples comparison. Three more feet in length and probably more beam make a big difference.

I had no issues with maintenance or quality. I only sold because I wanted a much larger boat :-D

Enjoy your boat search!

 

[Nomad Willy]

Re the beam and the big difference between R and b boat in this thread.

Boats wide for their length are low aspect boats and boats that are narrow for their length are called high aspect ratio boats.

They are very different performance wise in that the speed often wanted is in a speed zone that requires much more power to maintain or pass through to plane.

Any boat that is designed to or will exceed hull speed to any significant extent like a NT32 going 8-9 knots I’m saying they’re going fast enough that they’re actually trying to climb the wave by increasing their angle of attack ... and that increases resistance a lot .. but less w a narrower boat. Most all rec trawlers don’t have the power to grab more than a knot or so.

But long and narrow boats climb the wave much more easily. As do lighter boats. So performance minded trawler skippers will benefit from a boat considerably narrower. Up to a point (speed wise) where at the higher speed they mostly benefit from being wider. Trawlers frequently are wide to carry the weight that trawler skippers love. So most trawlers are wide, heavy and draggy w large and long keels.

I think the NT 32 is a bit narrower and thus more easily driven that most especially a knot or two above hull speed ... where many skippers would love to be. The trawler boat buyer should be aware that the speed performance they want is more readily attainable in a boat a bit longer and narrower than most.

 

[NNKCruiser]

Same considerations

Hi Everyone
First, I joined a few months ago and I’ve been following a long and learning a lot. Thanks!

I’ve come to a very similar place between the R31 and ST 34 for some of the same reasons but a number of my own preferences ( fly bridge, draft and size to dock at my house to name a few).

The extra beam and size of the ST 34 are certainly the draw. But I do like the customer service and all the Information available from Ranger that is out there on all of their systems. While I’ve owned boats for over 20 years (mostly 25’ range) this will be a big jump in size and systems for us and I like all the support from Ranger that appears to be out there. Is that just good marketing and would I find the same information out there for the ST?
Or does Ranger really excel in that area.

I was originally thinking of something in the 40 to 45 range but this being my first boat over 30’, I’ve thought it prudent to get comfortable and experience on something in the 30 to 35 ‘ range first.

Thanks! Stay safe everyone

 

[keith c]

Just an idea/thinking out of the box etc. With $300,000 buy a 2005 - 2008 Mainship 34 and keep the second one for parts.

 

[Shrew]

But I do like the customer service and all the Information available from Ranger that is out there on all of their systems.

Customer support is a bit of marketing. All boat manufacturers build the hull and deck, marry them together and install 3rd party parts. Ranger Tug doesn't really make any 'parts' per se.

Whatever question or problem you have about any 'system' is going to get you redirected to the manufacturer of that item. I'd be hesitant ot put too much value in 'Customer Service'.

In addition, these are sold by the dealer and that is who would provide service, not the manufacturer.

 

[FF]

"All boat manufacturers build the hull and deck, marry them together and install 3rd party parts. Ranger Tug doesn't really make any 'parts' per se. "


Actually some "builders" purchase the hull & deck and simply assemble

 

[OldDan1943]

Water line length and beam.

The only thing the OAL is used for is the dock master when charging you for a slip. Well there might be a real need for OAL, if you are locking through with other boats.

 

[backinblue]

I always thought the ST seemed like a great idea till I was on a new one last summer at a boat show and agree that the interior finish is very "IKEA-like" and not something I would love being inside. Otherwise it's probably well-built and efficient and would serve you well if you like the style, just doesn't work for me personally.

 

[Harmony 34]

Owner of two Swift Trawlers

Hi, I have actually owned both a ST34 and ST44, each for 5 years, after 30 years of blue water sailboats (Camper Nicholson & Amel). My experience is that they are very well built, easy to maintain, and very comfortable to live on and cruise. I like that Beneteau builds lots of boats, so their experience shows in both design and construction. Yes, not hand-crafted woodwork, but their approach keeps the price down. Cummins engine on 34 was wonderful, Volvos on 44 good, no issue with either brand. I will be happy to answer any specific question about owning a ST34.

 

[HuffinandPuffin]

I'm not familiar with the ST and I haven't spent much time on a RT. My impression, for what it's worth, is that it's designed so that lookers at boat shows can tick off all the boxes for the various features it has, but the space isn't really very comfortable. I would much prefer a Nordic Tug.

 

[FWT]

There is actually a sort of middle ground between the RT and ST.

Check out the Helmsman Trawler 31. Helmsman purchased the molds for the old Camano Troll, and redesigned the interior with a substantial upgrade to it.

To me, the RT31 makes the most sense if you plan to trailer. It is designed to do that, and live within trailerable specs, and its as big as it gets with that mission.

If not, then to me the Helmsman 31 is so much more boat than the RT31. Vastly better flybridge. Vastly better salon. Vastly better stateroom, head and shower. Reasonably comparable galley, though I'd give the edge to Helmsman. Better settee / dining in Helmsman. In the RT the primary outdoor living space is going to be the cockpit. In the Helmsman the cockpit is smaller, and the primary outdoor space is going to be up top, and there is a lot of space up there, comparable to the ST. And if there is some aspect not to your taste, Helmsman will custom build what you do prefer, within reasonable limits of course. Cabinetry changes are done often.

The H31 and RT31 both share the downside of narrow side decks.

The RT31 has a starboard side door at the helm, but it is barely usable if you carry any weight at all. Extremely narrow, and you have to contort a bit to go in or out. The H31 has no such door.

The H31 has an unusual standard engine, a Hyundai. But most get a Volvo which also fits. Check the Helmsman folder and you will see one chap had a Deere installed. So note that: Helmsman will customize. The prices quoted do not include any electronics, because everyone has their own tastes there. I once penciled it out and delivered it came up almost identical to the RT31, but seemed like so much more boat ... to me.

For what its worth

https://www.helmsmantrawlers.com/helmsman-trawlers/31-sedan/

 

[bucketlist1]

As an owner of 2 Ranger Tugs ( 2013 & 2018 R-27 ) I feel Ranger was better in the older days . Service and Quality have slipped as they are interested about volume now . I , unfortunately know from the issues of my 2018 , known as '' Lemon Aid " . ABYC electrical issues are also a problem . See TUGNUTS for more information .

 

[Bryant]

trawlers

I'm looking for advice from some seasoned trawler owners on my next purchase. I'm considering my next (and last) trawler purchase and have narrowed it down to the Ranger Tug 31 and Beneteau ST34. Normally, these would be my last choice in boats, but my brain (not heart) is moving them to top of my list.

I'm looking for a boat for my wife and I with occasional guest couples to enjoy marina life and occasional cruises of a week or two from homeport. Length of ownership will probably be 5 years. Must be able to easily single-hand the boat, so somewhere around 30-40 feet LOA would be my preference. However, most importantly, I'm hoping to be free of major maintenance issues for my time of ownership. A single-engine boat seems to be the best choice.

I've looked at a number of solid traditional trawlers, including Kadey Krogen (my personal fav), Nordic Tugs, and Grand Banks. Love them all for their specific attributes. I will not finance my purchase and aim to keep the price under $300K. At this price point, the above mentioned brands available are older boats; typically between 1998-2003. I've seen some nice examples of each, but they all for short as to my desire for low maintenance. Some one-owner 32/34 Nordic Tugs, have surfaced that might work, but small rear cockpit and poor side-walks to bow make these more "inside" boats than I desire.

Even though I'm in love with the essence of traditional trawlers I've narrowed it to the canned-production models of the RT31 and ST34 for specific reasons. Both are single-engine designs. To stay with my budget, both could be found in late model versions, hence maintenance issues should be routine rather than major. The RT has better engine access than the ST and the RT engine is positioned outside the cabin (presumably quieter while underway). The RT, being built in the U.S., should also have better customer support. On the other hand, The RT has horrible access to the bow, making it tougher to get around the deck. Unlike the ST with a large covered walkway and nice rear cockpit, mimicking a Europa design. Interior finish of the RT are nice, mostly teak, compared to the IKEA-type build of the ST. However, the RT is cabin is crammed with stuff making moving around and daily lounging somewhat unpleasant.

Could anyone help me make the a good decision? Thanks, mates...

Based upon what you have said, I'd go with a late model Ranger Tug. I have an old GB 36 and I love it but You mentioned maintenance so I'd go with the RT.

 

[TrawlerBear]

Interior an aesthetic decision

I’ll leave the deeper evaluations to my more seasoned forum colleagues but I did want to add that the materials are roughly the same in the ST 34 as in the 44, of which I purchased a 2016 version last August. No serious passages yet but we take her out several times a week and I wash her myself, going over every detail. I’ve been impressed with the “like new” appearance I’m able to achieve with every cleaning, whether it be the decks or the engine room. It may be mass produced but so is Mercedes and you get to enjoy the fit and finish that advanced manufacturing processes can provide without the Rolls price tag. At their volumes Beneteau also is able to hire superb designers who take the trawler form and interpret it with a modern sensibility adding an immense amount of light and efficient space making the living spaces really pleasant to hang out in. They may use materials that seem more IKEA than Nordhavn but they are definitely NOT IKEA. They’re tough and durable so far as well as easy to maintain. So in the end, it’s in part an aesthetic decision about how you feel on the boat and if you want to go “classic trawler” with smaller windows and more real wood or a more modern, airy feel. I also agree with the comments about stability. So for my part I’ve been quite satisfied, so far. Any boat is a fair amount of work and the ST is no exception. I wish you good luck in your decision and lots of fun cruising.