We are trading in our 2007 SeaRay 48 Sundancer for a Carver 56 with Volvo D9. Most of the 56's appear to have the D12 675. We are used to powerful engines and are wondering if moving to the Volvo D9 on a Voyager 56 may provide disappointing performance. The Broker obviously is telling us that the D9 provides plenty of power but I thought joining this forum might provide better feedback. I got the fuel charts on both engines run on this boat and saw little to no difference. Performance was obviously a whole other story. So, any suggestions on power? We are looking at a 2006 with D9, should we be looking at strictly D12?
We have only sold 56's with D12s. I would take the boat for a sea trial to see if the performance is what you are expecting. The yacht moves really nicely with the 675hp engines and is just adequate (in my opinion) with the 480 to 500hp choices.
Engine Data Is there any efficiency gained from the D9 engine vs. the D12? When I called Carver they told me both engines performed about the same as fare as GPH, the difference was in Cruise speed and WOT. Do you know where I can get performance data under both scenarios (GPH at each RPM interval)?
Options You are very kind and we really hope you can find that information, certainly we are imposing on you and very grateful you are taking the time. We are moving from an express boat to a bridge boat. We need interior stairs going to bridge and large master stateroom (it is our weekend getaway). Do you know of any other boats in the 800 to 900 range that fit this category?
We have now ruled out a Carver 56 with small engines and have priced new and used 56's with D12 675s. We also found a great deal on a SeaRay 58 Sedan Bridge. Any thoughts on which is a better boat?
well...I guess I'm a little biased on that. I have worked for the same Carver dealer for 27 years. However, I find it surprising that when you enter the master stateroom on the Sea Ray, it is very easy to hit your head. I also donot like the "fakeness" of the interior woods. I'm not sure if they are real or not, but they look painted instead of stained and varnished. I do think that the SeaRay is a pretty boat to look at, but that's about as far as it goes with me.
Can you compare the two with regards to: - Interior noise - How stable on a really choppy day - Carver seems to never sit still, always swaying, does it sway more than the 58 or is it just an optical illusion - Volvo Vs. MAN - How do they age (gracefully or after 3 years they are going on 20)? I know you are not getting a commission for your time, but you are helping a good boating family looking for advice from someone other than the dealer. Thank you in advance
Carver vs Sea Ray Make sure you're happy with the engine and maintenance access on the Sea Ray 58. If you're thinking of spending any time on the hook and need space for ground tackle or house batteries the Sea Ray might be at a disadvantage.
Well, we did not buy the 58 and started cruising with the 48. Took it to Florida and had a blast. We are now considering again a 56 Carver. I have now been on a couple and found that they roll quite a bit. Is it possible to stabalize them? Or I guess I should say is it advisable.