Elan 320 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Elan 320 in 2012 saw Elan Yachts continue its tradition of collaborating with leading naval architects, with Rob Humphreys at the helm of the design. Humphreys, known for his work on high-performance yachts, including VOR70s, brought this experience to the Elan Performance series, which includes the 320, aiming for a yacht that combined speed with genuine cruising comfort. This aligns perfectly with Elan's broader manufacturing ethos, which has, since its transition to fiberglass construction in 1962, focused on blending robust build quality with innovative design and performance capabilities.

Throughout its production, the Elan 320 offered various keel options to suit different sailing grounds and preferences. While the deep bulb keel of 7.05 feet was a prominent choice, shallower drafts of 1.90 meters (approximately 6.23 feet) and 1.50 meters (approximately 4.92 feet) were also available, each paired with corresponding ballast weights to maintain stability. Additionally, an even lighter and sportier "S" guise was offered, leveraging vacuum infusion moulding for enhanced performance. Later in its lifecycle, the Elan 320 was rebranded as the Elan E3, signifying its place within Elan's evolving E Line of performance cruisers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Elan 320 is engineered for spirited sailing, a characteristic evident in its design ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 19.8 (or 22.6 using reported sail area), the boat is considered well-powered for its displacement, suggesting good performance, especially in lighter air. This ratio indicates that the Elan 320 carries ample sail area relative to its weight, enabling it to accelerate quickly and maintain speed effectively.

Despite a relatively low Ballast to Displacement Ratio of around 0.24, the Elan 320 compensates significantly with its deep, efficient T-bulb keel, which provides a low center of gravity. This design choice ensures that the boat remains stiff and capable of standing up to more wind, contributing to its stable and balanced feel. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 156 places the Elan 320 firmly in the light-to-moderate displacement category for its length, reinforcing its performance-oriented design.

Anecdotal reports and reviews consistently highlight the Elan 320's excellent handling characteristics. It is frequently praised for being a "quick boat" that is "well-behaved and easy to handle when pushed." The twin rudder configuration, a notable feature for a boat of this size, contributes significantly to enhanced control and responsiveness, particularly when heeled or in varying sea states. The Elan 320 is known to "love two-sail reaching in a breeze" and is capable of "regularly nudging into double-figure speeds," making it an exciting boat for both racing and fast cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Elan 320 is characterized by a modern and spacious layout, designed to maximize comfort and functionality within its 31-foot length. The arrangement typically features two cabins and offers six berths, catering well to families or small crews. The interior design is noted for its robustness, with components "strong and bonded well to the hull and deck."

Stepping below, the layout is generously proportioned and clearly structured, building upon and refining the design elements seen in its predecessor, the Elan 310. The L-shaped galley is positioned forward of the aft cabin, offering a practical and secure space for meal preparation at sea. Throughout the cabin, ample storage is provided, crucial for extended cruising. While specific details on materials are limited in the provided data, Elan Yachts often incorporate iroko wood veneer and solid iroko accents in their interiors, suggesting a quality finish. The cockpit features an open transom, enhancing accessibility and providing a feeling of spaciousness at anchor.