3396 Mariner

Beginning with her introduction in 1975, the 3396 Mariner was one of Carver’s more popular models for nearly a decade. Known primarily for her oversized interior and boxy appearance, the original Mariner was built with a plywood superstructure (1975–76), while later models are all fiberglass in construction. Stepping down into the wide-open cabin, one is immediately impressed with the spacious dimensions of the combined salon and galley area. Designed for family cruising, the Mariner has a separate stall shower in her double-entry head compartment, facing salon settees, and a unique bulkhead ladder in the salon for indoor access to the flybridge. (A cockpit ladder is available as well, but the interior passage is a more convenient and quicker route.) The Mariner’s flybridge is huge for a boat this size with an L-shaped lounge that converts into an outdoor double berth when the weather is right. Note that the 33’s side decks are practically nonexistent. On the downside, the Mariner was an inexpensive boat so fit and finish left a lot to be desired. Several V-drive engine options were offered over the years, and most provide cruising speeds from 17–20 knots and top speeds to around 25 knots.