Elan 350 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Elan 350 was introduced in 2011 and remained in production until 2013. During this period, Elan Yachts, under the influence of Rob Humphreys' designs, focused on creating vessels that offered an exceptional balance between high-performance sailing and comfortable cruising capabilities. Rob Humphreys' design philosophy for the Elan 350 aimed to bring a "totally exciting new concept" to yachts of this size, particularly by incorporating features like twin wheels and twin rudders. The design also prioritized shorthanded sailing, allowing for minimal sail changes and ease of handling. Elan's manufacturing ethos at the time continued to leverage high-tech composite construction, drawing on the expertise of skilled technicians and engineers. The Elan 350 was offered in both two-cabin and three-cabin variants, providing flexibility for different owner preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Elan 350 is lauded for its speed, stability, and exciting performance, distinguishing itself as a capable cruiser-racer. Her design, featuring a fractional sloop rig, a bulb keel, and twin rudders, contributes significantly to her handling characteristics.

Based on her specifications, the Elan 350 exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.6. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Elan 350 is well-powered and capable of good performance, particularly in lighter air conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, at around 25.9%, indicates a moderate level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a decent amount of wind without excessive heeling. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 145, the Elan 350 falls into the lighter end of the cruiser spectrum, suggesting a boat designed for efficiency and responsiveness, rather than heavy displacement.

The twin rudders, a hallmark of Elan's performance-oriented lines, significantly enhance control and responsiveness, particularly when sailing at speed or when the boat is heeled. Anecdotal accounts suggest the Elan 350 is well-balanced and handles predictably across various sea states. The cockpit is notably spacious, with storage capacity that rivals some 40-foot vessels, making it well-suited for both racing maneuvers and comfortable lounging. The hull speed of 7.71 knots further underlines its performance potential.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications from the primary data are limited, the Elan 350 is recognized for its comfortable and practical accommodations, with an interior described as "plain and simple, but well designed". Reviews highlight a fully equipped galley, stylish interiors, and modern amenities designed to provide a "home away from home".

As noted, the Elan 350 was available in both two-cabin and three-cabin configurations, offering versatility for different cruising needs. Owners generally find the interior layout to be spacious for a yacht of its size, complementing its strong sailing performance with a comfortable living environment. The water capacity is generous for a vessel of its size, at 46 gallons.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Elan 350 frequently commend its solid construction and comfortable motion through a seaway. It is often praised as a "cracking boat" that sails exceptionally well, offering an engaging experience for those who appreciate performance. The spacious cockpit is a recurring positive, providing ample room for both crew activity and relaxation. While specific recurring issues are not broadly reported, the collective sentiment among owners points to a yacht that successfully delivers on its promise of being a versatile and exciting performance cruiser.