Survey Spotlight: Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 – Preveza & Lefkada, Greece
- Steven Truss MIIMS
- Nov 9
- 3 min read
This week I was asked to carry out a pre-purchase condition survey on a 2019 Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349, currently exiting the Sunsail charter fleet here in the Ionian. The buyer, travelling in from the UK, wanted a clear picture of the yacht’s structural condition, maintenance history, and any foreseeable costs before committing to purchase.
The inspection was completed partly afloat during engine testing at D-Marin Lefkas, followed by a haul-out ashore for full hull and underwater assessment. The weather was calm and dry – ideal conditions for taking reliable moisture readings and conducting external inspections.
General Impressions
The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 remains a very popular model for both private cruising and charter. With twin wheels, twin rudders, straightforward sail handling and a bright, modern interior, it’s a comfortable and manageable yacht for couples and small families. This particular example presented well for her age, benefitting from regular fleet maintenance and a consistent service schedule.
The interior showed only light cosmetic wear, entirely normal for limited charter use. Systems, navigation electronics and domestic equipment were all functional and in serviceable condition.
The engine (Yanmar 3YM20) started and ran cleanly under load as we manoeuvred from berth to the lift-out dock. Oil pressure and temperature readings were stable and there was no unusual vibration or exhaust output.
Hull & Structural Condition
Once ashore, the underwater hull was washed and examined closely. A number of very small osmotic blisters were found in the gelcoat layer. These were typically 3–5 mm in size and most visible on the starboard side. One blister was opened and glycol was present, confirming the early stages of gelcoat osmosis.
At this stage, the condition is cosmetic rather than structural. There was no evidence of deeper laminate breakdown or moisture ingress affecting the hull integrity.
The keel is the wing-keel configuration and the keel-to-hull joint was sound. However, the outer tips of the keel wings showed small areas of casting loss, likely from minor contact or chocking. This is a straightforward repair using metal-filled compound and refinishing during a future routine lift-out.
Inside, the keel bolts, backing plates and floor structures were in very good condition — important reassurance for any buyer.
Bilge Water Investigation
Fresh water was found between the bilge liner and the hull. This is not uncommon in modern moulded-liner yachts, where water can become trapped and slow to evaporate. The next step is to dry the area and pressure-test the freshwater system and inspect deck penetrations to locate the source. It is considered a routine maintenance matter — not structural.
Rig, Deck & Fittings
The standing rigging appeared to be original from manufacture. It remains serviceable, but as with any yacht approaching five years or more, planning for replacement should be included in future maintenance budgeting.
Deck gear, hatches, winches and guardrails were all in good serviceable order. Two small teak inserts were missing on the aft bathing platform, and the seller confirmed these will be repaired if required.
Air Conditioning & Electrical Systems
Both air-conditioning units were tested whilst the yacht was afloat. The seawater pump was confirmed to be supplying and discharging correctly, and cool air was delivered through the internal vents. Electrical systems, battery banks and charging arrangements were tidy and functioning correctly.
Summary & Professional Assessment
Overall, this Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 349 is a sound and well-maintained example with a few items to allow for in planning:
Short-term tasks:
Dry bilge liner and trace freshwater ingress source
Repair keel wing tip edges and cosmetic gelcoat areas
Replace missing teak pieces on bathing platform
Medium-term maintenance planning:
Monitor hull moisture and osmotic blister progression
Schedule standing rigging renewal in line with age
Structurally, the yacht remains sound, and the engine and major systems performed as expected.
With routine maintenance and the above items attended to, this yacht will continue to offer safe and comfortable sailing throughout the Ionian and beyond.
If you are considering purchasing a yacht in Greece or the surrounding region and need independent, professional advice, feel free to get in touch. I inspect sailing yachts, catamarans and motor vessels throughout Lefkada, Preveza, Aktio and the wider Ionian area.
www.yachtsurveysgreece.comsteventruss1@aol.comSteven Truss, AffIIMS – Marine Surveyor, Greece
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