Oceanis 311 Lktr (Beneteau) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Beneteau Oceanis 311 series in 1998 marked a continuation of Beneteau's commitment to innovation and accessibility in the recreational sailing market. Designed by Jean-Marie Finot, a naval architect celebrated for his performance-oriented creations, the Oceanis 311 was intended to be a "safe and high-performance cruiser." This design philosophy aligned perfectly with Beneteau's broader ethos during that era, which focused on leveraging fiberglass construction to produce efficient, comfortable, and affordable yachts. The company, having embraced fiberglass in the 1960s, continually sought to balance satisfying sailing performance with practical and spacious accommodations, making sailing accessible to a wider demographic.

A significant distinguishing feature of the Oceanis 311 was its availability in different keel configurations. While a standard bulbed fin keel with a single spade rudder was offered, the "Lktr" variant, as featured in this specific model, presented a lifting keel complemented by twin rudders. This innovative design, featuring specially reinforced twin rudders and a wing/plate at the bottom of the keel, allowed the boat to remain upright when beached, offering unparalleled access to shallow anchorages and tidal berths. The production run, spanning from approximately 1997 to 2003, saw the Oceanis 311 emerge as a popular choice, embodying Beneteau's blend of modern design and functional versatility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Beneteau Oceanis 311 Lktr, with its Finot design, translates its specifications into a lively and responsive sailing experience. Her sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.8 suggests a sailboat capable of good performance in lighter winds, exhibiting decent acceleration and the ability to keep moving when the breeze is soft. The ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.35, indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind before requiring reefs. While not an extreme performance yacht, this ratio points to a balanced and predictable motion under sail.

Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio of approximately 165.14, the Oceanis 311 falls into the lighter end of the cruising boat spectrum, contributing to her agility and "surprising speed" for a vessel of her size and interior volume. Anecdotal evidence from sailors frequently describes the Oceanis 311 as an "easy to handle" and "quick enough" boat, appealing to those seeking both relaxed cruising and spirited day sails. Her sleek lines and well-proportioned sail plan, as designed by Groupe Finot, contribute to her reputation as a "very fast cruiser" whose comfort "rivals that of larger models." The twin rudders on the LKTR variant likely provide enhanced control and responsiveness, particularly beneficial when navigating in shallow waters or during beaching maneuvers.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its overall length of just over 32 feet, the Beneteau Oceanis 311 is lauded for its remarkably thoughtful and spacious interior layout, often surprising those accustomed to similarly sized boats of older designs. The design prioritizes maximizing interior volume, with a reported maximum headroom of 5 feet 10 inches (1.76 meters), allowing most occupants to stand comfortably within the main salon. The forward cabin, often configured as a V-berth, offers generous dimensions, with a berth length of 6 feet 7 inches (2 meters) and a width of 4 feet 7 inches (1.4 meters), providing ample sleeping space.

Typically configured with two cabins, the Oceanis 311 is well-suited for a couple or a small family. The interior commonly features a forward cabin, a main salon with a dinette that may convert to an additional berth, a functional galley, and a dedicated head compartment. Descriptions often highlight a spacious cockpit that seamlessly connects to the interior. The overall finish, consistent with Beneteau's production philosophy, prioritizes practicality and durability, often featuring a blend of warm wood trim and clean fiberglass surfaces. While not always detailed in specifications, Beneteau's standard practices suggest adequate storage solutions and ventilation for comfortable extended cruising. The generous interior volume of the Oceanis 311 allowed it to offer comfort levels comparable to larger vessels, contributing to its popularity as a family cruiser.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Beneteau Oceanis 311 generally express high satisfaction with the model, frequently commending its balanced attributes. Many appreciate its modern aesthetics and its "lovely looking" profile compared to some contemporary designs. The boat's performance is often highlighted, with owners finding it capable of "surprising speed" while remaining "easy to handle," making it a suitable choice for both experienced sailors and those seeking a more relaxed cruising experience. Its design as an "all-furling cruising boat" is particularly appealing for weekenders prioritizing ease of use. The overall construction quality is generally regarded as solid, with reports of older vessels passing surveys without major issues, a testament to Beneteau's robust build standards and adherence to CE ratings for seaworthiness.

However, like any production boat, some specific points have been noted by the owner community. There have been discussions among owners regarding "keel issues," specifically related to the screw design, which Beneteau reportedly "modified" around 2002. This suggests that earlier models might warrant closer inspection of this component. While no widespread recurring issues like pervasive deck leaks were prominently mentioned, the sentiment from some owners, who meticulously addressed "AA problems," implies that some routine maintenance or minor issues might arise, as is common with any boat of its age. Despite these occasional points, the prevalent sentiment indicates a strong community among Beneteau owners, often characterized by shared experiences and a willingness to exchange knowledge, further enhancing the ownership experience.