Hanse 291 Information, Review, Specs

The Hanse 291 entered production in 1993 and was built until 1995. Its creation was a foundational moment for Hanse Yachts, a company founded by Michael Schmidt with a vision to produce yachts offering strong sailing performance and ease of handling, suitable even for single-handed operation. The Hanse 291, directly inspired by the Aphrodite 29, was a testament to this philosophy. Carl Baier's design for the 291 emphasized a blend of comfort and performance, incorporating features like oiled teak fittings to enhance its interior appeal. While the search results do not indicate significant variations during its relatively short production run, its design laid the groundwork for Hanse's future focus on "fast cruising" yachts with simplified handling.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hanse 291 demonstrates a spirited sailing profile for its size, offering a good balance between performance and stability. With a reported sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.24, the Hanse 291 suggests competent performance, particularly in lighter air, indicating it can be responsive and engaging to sail. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of about 0.40 indicates a solid degree of stiffness, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and maintain its sail plan in various conditions. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio (DLR) of approximately 152.4 places the Hanse 291 in the lighter-to-moderate displacement category, contributing to its lively performance and easier handling. Owners and reviewers often describe the Hanse 291 as a good combination of comfort and sailing performance, noting its competitive nature and stiffness, making it well-suited for both comfortable cruising and club racing. It can be effectively set up for short-handed cruising or racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Hanse 291 offers a thoughtfully arranged interior designed to maximize comfort and utility. The salon typically features double couches and a foldable table, creating a cozy living space. The galley is equipped with a double flame cooker, a sink, and a refrigerator, providing essential amenities for cruising. A quarter berth is commonly found on the starboard side, and a foldable chart table adds to the navigational convenience. The forward cabin offers a V-berth, while a pilot berth is also a common feature. The interior finish often incorporates oiled teak, providing a warm and traditional aesthetic. Overall, the accommodations are considered nice and contribute to a comfortable experience below decks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hanse 291 generally praise its solid sailing characteristics and its ability to deliver both competitive performance and decent comfort. Many appreciate its suitability for short-handed sailing, aligning with Hanse's broader design philosophy. While general discussions on Hanse owner forums sometimes touch on potential issues related to electronics, engines, or original build quality in early Hanse models, specific widespread issues for the Hanse 291 itself are not consistently highlighted in publicly available owner reviews. The emphasis in owner feedback tends to be on the boat's practical sailing abilities and its comfortable, if not luxurious, interior.