Yachts for sale / Carver 396 Motor Yacht

2001 Carver 396 Motor Yacht

Eastlake, OH, US 40.6 ft · 13.92 ft' beam 2 cabins 21.72 kn kn top
Asking
$178,000
Our Thoughts

The 2001 Carver 396 Motor Yacht represents a significant departure from traditional motor yacht design, introducing aggressive express-cruiser styling and a raised-walkdeck architecture that fundamentally changed how aft cabin vessels could be configured. At 40.58 feet with a 13.92-foot beam, this model delivers exceptional interior volume—a hallmark of the 396 platform that distinguished it immediately upon introduction in the 2000 model year and continues to appeal to buyers seeking spacious, open-concept cruising accommodations.

Powering and Performance

Twin Volvo 7.4Gi gasoline engines provide the propulsion, delivering a cruising speed of approximately 17.38 knots with a maximum speed of 21.72 knots. The vessel maintains a 3.5-foot draft and carries 330 gallons of fuel capacity, supporting extended cruising range. Hydraulic steering, trim tabs, and dripless shaft logs contribute to smooth handling and reduced maintenance demands. The engines have been maintained with extreme care and operate at exceptionally low hours, with recent impeller replacements on both motors and the genset ensuring reliable mechanical condition.

Layout and Accommodations

The 396 Motor Yacht's floorplan capitalizes on its raised side-deck design to create a full-beam salon—arguably the most impressive feature of the vessel. This great-room-style salon spans the full width of the cabin with approximately seven feet of headroom, providing panoramic windows and abundant natural light. The configuration accommodates generous seating, entertainment systems, and the flexibility to add amenities that owners expect in a modern cruising platform.

Two staterooms provide private sleeping quarters. The master stateroom features a queen-size island berth with inner-spring mattress, cedar-lined hanging lockers, and extensive storage cabinetry. The guest stateroom offers a second queen berth with similar storage and access to an overhead hatch. Both staterooms include GFCI-protected 110-volt outlets and designer decor throughout.

Two complete head compartments serve the vessel. The master head includes a separate shower stall with integral bench seating, adjustable shower head, and full vanity with undermounted stainless steel sink. The guest head mirrors this layout with additional storage and privacy-glass portlights. Both heads feature electric-flush toilets, halogen lighting, and solid surface countertops.

The galley includes a three-burner electric range with ceramic cooktop, built-in microwave/convection oven, upright refrigerator/freezer, and stainless steel sink with solid surface countertop and cover. Storage drawers and cabinets provide organized provisioning space.

Deck and Exterior Features

The aft deck spans approximately 73 square feet, protected by a dual hardtop configuration with wing doors providing weather protection and side-deck access. A molded stairway leads to the swim platform. Seating on the flybridge accommodates multiple passengers, while the aft deck features stainless steel cleats, grab rails, and hand rails throughout. Four stainless steel spring cleats and substantial through-bolted backing plates ensure secure tie-down capability.

The foredeck includes an over-the-stem anchor roller, in-deck self-draining fender locker, and dedicated anchor cleat. Side decks feature bow rail with intermediate stanchions, grab rails above cabin windows, and heavy-duty stainless steel rub rail molding. All walk decks incorporate molded nonskid surfaces with diamond pattern for safe footing.

**Electrical Systems and

Provided listing description Click to read the original broker text

New Listing, A Rare Find and One of a Kind. Fresh Water, Low Hour Cummins Diesel, With Dual Hard Tops, Plus Bow and Stern Thrusters. Flawless Interior, Many Recent Upgrades and Maintainenece, Inside Winter Storage and Ready for Water. This will not last. Recent Upgrades and Maintenence Include: New Raymarine Vision Camera. New House Batteries, New Remote Controls for Both Thrusters, New Batteries in Forward Thruster, New Impellers on Motors and Genset, New Air Seperator Flters, New Water Seperators, Engine/Trans Throttle Controls Replaced, Aft Shower Sump Replaced, Exhaust Hoses for Genset Replaced, Scheduled Maintainence Performed on Transmissions, Valve Cover Gaskets Replaced, Cross Over Fuel Transfer Pump Replaced, Lamps in Compass and Gauges Replaced, All Lamps replaced with LED ELements, Imron Paint applied to Hardtop, plus more. A bold departure from Carver’s past history of conservative styling, the 396 Motor Yacht (called the 39 MY in 2005–6; 40 MY in 2007) is a scaled-down version of Carver’s equally controversial 506 MY (also introduced in 2000) with the same tiered elliptical cabin windows, too-high freeboard, and overdone Euro styling. Belowdecks, however, the 396 is a stunning display of interior volume unmatched in a boat this size. The salon— easily the most impressive aspect of the boat—is immense with a panoramic outside view and about seven feet of headroom. The full-beam salon configuration is made possible by raising the side decks to eye level, which is why the boat appears to have so much freeboard. Both staterooms have walkaround double berths (note the athwartships berth in the master suite), and heads have separate stall showers. Note that in 2003 a dinette floorplan became available. Wing doors and a hardtop protect the aft deck from the elements; a molded stairway leads to the swim platform, and there’s seating for a small crowd on the flybridge Twin 370hp gas engines cruise at 14–15 knots (around 24 knots top), and 370hp Cummins diesels cruise at 18 knots (22–23 knots top).

2001 Carver 396 Motor Yacht: A Spacious Aft Cabin Cruiser with Low-Hour Diesel Power and Comprehensive Recent Maintenance
Overview
The 2001 Carver 396 Motor Yacht represents a significant departure from traditional aft cabin design, introducing bold styling and an uncommonly spacious interior layout that challenged industry conventions when it debuted in 2000. Located in Eastlake, Ohio, this 40.58-foot motor yacht is powered by twin Volvo 7.4Gi gasoline engines and features a meticulously maintained mechanical system supported by extensive recent upgrades and service work. At this price point and with its documented low operating hours, the 396 Motor Yacht offers substantial cruising accommodations and a full-beam salon configuration that delivers surprising interior volume for a vessel of its size. The 396 Motor Yacht was an overnight success upon introduction, fundamentally changing expectations for what an aft cabin design could deliver in terms of living space and comfort. The boat's distinctive raised walkdeck design—which initially drew mixed reactions for its aggressive exterior proportions—directly enables the wide cabin footprint and generous headroom that define the interior experience. This architectural choice elevated the side decks to eye level, visually distinguishing the 396 from competitors while functionally creating a cabin environment that feels more like a floating home than a traditional yacht.
Layout and Deck Design
The 396 Motor Yacht's defining characteristic is its full-beam salon configuration, which occupies the heart of the vessel and creates an immense, light-filled living space with approximately seven feet of headroom—exceptional for a 40-foot cruising yacht. Panoramic windows and the raised cabin design flood the salon with natural light and exterior views, making the space feel considerably larger than the boat's footprint suggests. This salon serves as the primary gathering and entertaining area, featuring a spacious Flexsteel lounge with double incliners, a 70-inch corner extension, and a 36-inch end section upholstered in chamois UltraLeather. A free-standing table with an elevating top provides flexible dining and work surfaces, while two integral end tables with solid surface tops flank the lounge seating. The master stateroom is positioned forward and features a queen-size island berth with an offset configuration that maximizes usable space. An athwartships berth orientation distinguishes this layout, offering an alternative sleeping arrangement within the master suite. The stateroom includes two cedar-lined hanging lockers with automatic lighting, seven storage cabinets, five storage drawers, and solid surface bedside endtables with integrated storage. Two screened portlights provide natural ventilation and light, while designer decor and halogen reading lights create a comfortable retreat. The master head compartment is separated into distinct head and shower stall spaces, with a vanity featuring a solid surface top, undermounted stainless steel sink, and mirrored medicine cabinet. The guest stateroom aft accommodates a second queen-size island berth and includes a circular overhead hatch with a 20.5-inch diameter, providing direct access to natural light and ventilation. Carpeted step-ups beside the berth ease entry and exit, while four storage cabinets and beneath-berth storage address cruising gear organization. A pocket-style entrance door with stainless steel hardware secures open and closed, and the guest head features a separate shower stall with grab rails, adjustable shower head, integral bench seat, and privacy glass portlight. The aft deck spans approximately 73 square feet and is fully protected by a hardtop structure, with wing doors providing weather protection and side deck access. A molded fiberglass stairway leads to the swim platform, and seating accommodates a small gathering. Two upper and lower lockers with interior stainless steel restraining rails provide storage for fenders, lines, and other deck equipment. Courtesy and overhead recessed lights illuminate the aft entertaining area, while two stereo speakers extend the salon audio system to the exterior space. The foredeck includes a self-draining in-deck locker for anchor chain and fender storage, an over-the-stem anchor roller, and multiple stainless steel cleats sized for secure line handling. Side decks feature a continuous 1.0-inch O.D. stainless steel bow rail with intermediate amidships sections, double-welded stanchions anchored to aluminum backing plates, and grab rails running the length of the cabin windows. Heavy-duty stainless steel rub rail molding protects the hull perimeter, while a deck toe rail and molded nonskid surfaces with diamond patterns ensure safe footing throughout.
Helm and Electronics
The 396 Motor Yacht's helm station is positioned on the flybridge , providing elevated sightlines and commanding control of the vessel. A custom aluminum electronics arch with acrylic polyurethane surface coating and UV protection supports modern navigation and communication equipment, with five access plates allowing straightforward maintenance and upgrades. An illuminated compass and comprehensive engine alarms for temperature and oil pressure monitoring keep the operator informed of critical systems. Recent upgrades to the electrical and control systems significantly enhance the helm experience. New Raymarine Vision Camera integration provides real-time visual feedback for docking, navigation, and situational awareness. Engine and transmission throttle controls have been replaced, ensuring responsive and precise power management. The electrical system operates on a robust 50-amp shore power connection with a 50-foot cord, supported by four deep-cycle marine batteries and two electronic AC-DC battery chargers. AC and DC distribution panels with magnetic circuit breakers and integral bilge blower controls organize power distribution throughout the vessel, while an AC voltmeter and ammeter provide real-time electrical monitoring. Hydraulic steering provides smooth, responsive helm control, while dual bow and stern thrusters—newly serviced with replacement batteries in the forward thruster and new remote controls for both units—enable precise maneuvering in tight spaces and adverse conditions. Trim tabs with stainless steel construction and hydraulic actuation assist in hull attitude adjustment and fuel efficiency optimization during cruising.
Power and Performance
Twin Volvo 7.4Gi gasoline engines deliver the 396 Motor Yacht's propulsive power, with dripless shaft logs minimizing bilge maintenance and aquamet propeller shafts resisting corrosion in saltwater and freshwater environments. Exhaust mufflers reduce operational noise, while 421 manganese bronze rudders and struts provide corrosion-resistant steering and structural support. Synthetic rubber composite cutlass bearings ensure smooth shaft rotation and longevity. The vessel achieves a cruising speed of approximately 17.38 knots and a maximum speed of 21.72 knots, with documented top speed performance of 26 miles per hour. The 330-gallon fuel capacity supports extended cruising range, while the 90-gallon fresh water capacity accommodates typical cruising needs. Fuel tanks are constructed from welded, baffled 5052 aluminum, ensuring durability and reliability. Recent maintenance on the engines includes new impellers on both motors, replacement of exhaust hoses for the genset, and scheduled transmission maintenance with replaced valve cover gaskets. A cross-over fuel transfer pump has been newly installed, supporting reliable fuel management between tanks.
Comfort and Accommodations
The 396 Motor Yacht's interior reflects a thoughtful approach to cruising comfort, with designer decor throughout and a cohesive material palette that unifies the salon, staterooms, and heads. Beige tufted cut-pile carpet with 65-ounce crush-resistant nylon covers the main living spaces, while wood plank flooring in the galley provides durability and visual warmth. Cherry wood bulkheads, cabinetry, and trim throughout the cabin feature high-gloss finishes, creating an upscale aesthetic that ages gracefully. The galley is positioned for efficient meal preparation and entertaining, with a three-burner electric range with ceramic cooktop, a built-in microwave/convection oven, and an upright refrigerator/freezer. Solid surface countertops and backsplash resist staining and scratching, while an undermounted stainless steel sink with solid surface cover provides functional work space. Under-sink storage and multiple drawers and cabinets organize galley equipment and provisions. Climate control throughout the vessel is managed by a fresh air system with controllable overhead vents, providing passive ventilation and natural air circulation. Head fans in both the master and guest compartments support moisture management, while CO detectors in the salon and staterooms provide safety monitoring. The salon entertainment system includes a television and VCR with wiring for two speakers each in the salon, master stateroom, and aft deck hardtop, supported by a two-speaker stereo system. Multiple 110-volt outlets with GFCI protection throughout the salon and staterooms accommodate modern conveniences, including a coffee maker and telephone connectors for communication systems. Lighting throughout the vessel
Length
40.6 ft
Beam
13.92 ft'
Year
2001
Builder
Carver
Model
396 Motor Yacht
Cabins
2
Max speed
21.72 kn kn
What type of boat is the Carver 396 Motor Yacht and who is it designed for?
The Carver 396 Motor Yacht is a 40-foot aft cabin motor yacht that combines the aggressive styling of an express cruiser with the comfort and living space of a traditional trawler-style cruiser. It's designed for buyers seeking extended cruising capability with luxurious accommodations, making it ideal for couples and small families who want to spend multiple days or weeks aboard in comfort. The raised walkdeck design and full-beam salon configuration create significantly more interior volume than typical boats of this size, offering a spacious "great room" feel that sets it apart from conventional motor yachts in the 40-foot range.
What engine package does this 2001 Carver 396 have and how does it perform?
This vessel is powered by twin Volvo 7.4Gi gasoline engines. With extreme low hours and well-maintained service history, the engines deliver a cruising speed of approximately 17.38 knots and a maximum speed of 21.72 knots (approximately 26 mph). The twin-engine configuration provides redundancy and maneuverability, while the low-hour engine condition and recent impeller replacement on both motors indicate meticulous mechanical care. This power package offers a good balance between fuel efficiency during cruising and adequate performance for leisurely exploration of coastal and inland waterways.
What recent maintenance and upgrades have been completed on this motor yacht?
This listing includes an extensive list of recent upgrades and scheduled maintenance performed to ensure the vessel is in optimal operating condition. Key work includes new Raymarine Vision camera system, replacement of house batteries and forward thruster batteries, new remote controls for both bow and stern thrusters, new impellers on motors and genset, new air separator filters and water separators, replacement of engine and transmission throttle controls, aft shower sump replacement, exhaust hose replacement for the genset, scheduled transmission maintenance, valve cover gasket replacement, crossover fuel transfer pump replacement, LED conversion of all lamps throughout the vessel, and Imron paint applied to the hardtop. This comprehensive maintenance schedule demonstrates commitment to vessel reliability and modernization.
How is the salon and main living space configured on the Carver 396?
The salon is the signature feature of the 396 Motor Yacht, offering exceptional interior volume and a panoramic outside view with approximately seven feet of headroom. The full-beam salon configuration is achieved through the boat's distinctive raised side decks, creating an immense open "great room" layout. The salon includes a Flexsteel lounge with double recliners and 70-inch corner extension, a storage sofa, free-standing elevating table, two integral end tables with solid surface tops, entertainment system with TV and VCR, stereo speakers, and abundant storage cabinetry. Large windows and window vents provide natural light and ventilation, while the designer decor and beige tufted carpet create a sophisticated cruising environment. This layout prioritizes social gathering and relaxation, making extended cruising more enjoyable for multiple guests.
What are the sleeping accommodations and stateroom layouts?
The 396 Motor Yacht features two luxurious staterooms, both with walkaround double berths. The master stateroom includes a queen-size inner-spring mattress in an offset island berth configuration with two bedside end tables offering storage, two cedar-lined hanging lockers, seven storage cabinets, five storage drawers, two portlights with screens, and two reading lights plus three overhead halogen lights. The guest stateroom offers a queen-size island berth with a mirrored headboard, overhead hatch with screen (20.5-inch diameter), two portlights, four storage cabinets, and a cedar-lined hanging locker. Both staterooms feature GFCI-protected 110V outlets, designer decor, and telephone connectors. Each stateroom is accessed via secure doors with stainless steel hardware, providing privacy and comfort for extended cruising.
What head and shower facilities are included in the vessel?
The 396 Motor Yacht features two complete head compartments, each with separate shower stalls—a layout that provides significant convenience for cruising with guests. The master head includes an electric flush pedestal toilet, solid surface vanity with undermounted stainless steel sink, mirrored medicine cabinet, and a dedicated shower stall with adjustable height shower head, detachable handshower, integral bench seat, and grab rail. The guest head similarly features an electric flush toilet, solid surface vanity with undermounted sink, three mirrored medicine cabinets, and a separate shower stall with designer shower curtain, grab rail, integral bench seat, and shower accessories cabinet. Both heads include proper ventilation fans, privacy glass portlights, and halogen lighting. This dual-head configuration is a significant advantage for families or guests sharing the vessel.
What thrust and steering systems does the Carver 396 have?
This motor yacht is equipped with both bow and stern thrusters, with new remote controls recently installed for both systems and new batteries installed in the forward thruster. These thrusters significantly enhance docking and maneuvering capability, particularly valuable when operating in tight marina spaces or challenging wind and current conditions. The vessel features hydraulic steering with trim tabs (stainless steel, hydraulic) that improve handling and fuel efficiency at cruising speeds. The recent replacement of thruster remote controls and forward thruster batteries indicates these systems are in excellent working condition and ready for immediate use.
What electronics and navigation equipment are installed?
The vessel is equipped with a new Raymarine Vision camera system, recently installed to enhance situational awareness and docking safety. The boat includes an illuminated compass and navigation lights meeting COLREGS standards. A custom aluminum electronics arch provides a dedicated mounting platform for additional electronics and antennas. The electrical system supports modern electronics integration with AC and DC distribution panels, magnetic circuit breakers, AC voltmeter and ammeter, and a 50-amp shore power connector with 50-foot cord. The system is wired with tinned copper strand wire, harnessed, color-coded, and labeled to meet or exceed ABYC standards, providing a solid foundation for navigation, communication, and entertainment systems.
What are the fuel and water capacity, and how do they support extended cruising?
The Carver 396 carries 330 gallons of fuel in welded, baffled 5052 aluminum tanks and 90 gallons of fresh water capacity. At a cruising speed of 17.38 knots, the 330-gallon fuel capacity provides substantial range for extended coastal cruising or Great Lakes exploration. The 90-gallon fresh water tank supports multi-day cruising for a small family or couple, with the added convenience of an upright refrigerator/freezer, three-burner electric range with ceramic cooktop, microwave/convection oven, and stainless steel sink with solid surface cover in the galley. The vessel also includes three automatic/manual bilge pumps (1500 gph each) and a galvanic isolator/zinc saver to protect the aluminum fuel and water tanks from corrosion.
What structural and safety features protect the vessel and its occupants?
The Carver 396 is built with a solid fiberglass hull featuring Knytex substrates and Vinylester barrier coat for durability and corrosion resistance. The hull incorporates hand-laid, molded fiberglass components with composite laminate hullsides, decks, and cabintops, reinforced by a molded fiberglass stringer system and fabricated aluminum floor frames with stainless steel stanchions. The cabintop features integral aluminum truss reinforcement for structural integrity. Safety systems include automatic fire suppression (FE241/FM200), CO detectors in the salon and staterooms, three 1500-gph bilge pumps with automatic and manual operation, engine alarms for temperature and oil pressure, battery master disconnect switches, and GFCI protection on all 110V outlets. The deck features molded nonskid surfaces with diamond pattern throughout, and stainless steel railings and grab rails provide secure handholds on all exterior walkways and the aft deck.
What makes the aft deck and flybridge area functional for cruising and entertaining?
The aft deck spans approximately 73 square feet and is integral to the main deck with self-draining design, protected by a hardtop covering the entire area. The space includes two upper and lower lockers with interior stainless steel restraining rails, two wing doors that provide secure access to side decks, and a molded stairway leading to the swim platform. Seating accommodates a small crowd, with four courtesy lights and two overhead lights providing adequate illumination for evening entertaining. Two stereo speakers extend the salon entertainment system to the aft deck. The flybridge offers additional topside seating and command bridge access via an integral stairway with stainless steel hand rail. The hardtop protection, combined with the raised walkdeck design, allows comfortable use of the aft deck in moderate weather conditions, making it an extension of the vessel's social spaces for extended cruising.

Fly Yachts is pleased to assist you in the purchase of this vessel. This boat is centrally listed by Yachts360. It is offered as a convenience by this broker/dealer to its clients and is not intended to convey direct representation of a particular vessel.

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