Hi,
I've started shopping around for a Carver 396 or 404 about 20 years old with diesel power. I really like the 404 because of the rear cabin door onto the cockpit. Good for rear cabin ventilation while not using AC. I will mainly be cruising in Florida and the Bahamas.

However, I would like to do routine engine maintenance myself and an wondering if the engine room of the 404 is really too right, especially with diesels. How difficult is it to get at both raw water pumps, for example, or both heat exchangers?

Does the 396 have a much better engine room? Should I rule out the 404 because of difficulty of maintenance which is an important factor in a boat of that age?

I like the 444 for the same reasons as the 404, but it is getting longer, and heavier, and more risk of being underpowered and, of course, more expensive by the foor for everything.

My needs are comfortable cruising during the winter for two people with occasional visits from another couple for a week to 10 days.

Looking forward to hearing about your expériences,
Mark C