Excel 319 Information, Review, Specs

The Excel 319 debuted in 1990, marking a specific chapter in the extensive history of Excel Yachts, a company with roots in Swedish boat building tracing back to as early as 1909. Designed by Jan Becker, the Excel 319 was constructed with a solid fiberglass hull, a material choice that became prevalent in the latter half of the 20th century for its durability and reduced maintenance requirements. While the specific design philosophy for the 319 is not extensively documented, it appears Becker aimed for a "slightly more spacy hull design," which would contribute to its interior volume. The builder, Excel Yachts, with its historical address in Stockholm, is known for a more boutique approach to yacht building, prioritizing functionality and robust performance suited for Nordic waters. The Excel 319 features a fin keel with a bulb and a spade rudder, a configuration chosen for efficiency and responsiveness. There is no widely available information suggesting significant variations or different marks during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Excel 319 exhibits characteristics indicative of a lively yet stable sailboat. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 18.81, the Excel 319 suggests good performance, especially in lighter winds, indicating a boat that is relatively easily driven. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio stands at a robust 0.46 (46%), which is a high figure, pointing to a stiff and stable vessel capable of standing up to a considerable amount of wind without excessive heeling. This high ballast ratio contributes significantly to its seaworthiness and comfortable motion. Furthermore, with a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 196, the Excel 319 falls into the lighter, more performance-oriented category for its size, rather than being a heavy, traditional cruiser. Owners and reviewers note that the Excel 319 boasts a "relative speed performance" rating of 82, suggesting it is faster than 82% of comparable sailboat designs, further reinforcing its performance credentials. The spade rudder further enhances its maneuverability and responsiveness at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Excel 319 is designed to offer practical and comfortable accommodations within its 32-foot length. The vessel is equipped with two cabins and can typically sleep four to six people. The designer's choice for a "slightly more spacy hull design" suggests a conscious effort to maximize interior volume and comfort. The stern of the Excel 319 features a negative rake with an integrated swim platform, and the cockpit is open aft, leading directly to this platform, enhancing access to the water and improving flow within the cockpit area. While specific details on interior finish materials are not widely documented, the Swedish heritage of Excel Yachts implies a focus on functional, durable, and well-crafted interiors, likely featuring a combination of fiberglass liners and practical wood trim characteristic of Scandinavian boatbuilding. Storage and ventilation are typically well-considered in boats of this origin, though specific details for the 319 require further investigation.