Hanse 301 Information, Review, Specs

The Hanse 301 was launched during a period of significant growth and consolidation for Hanse Yachts, which was founded in 1993 by Michael Schmidt. Hanse's manufacturing ethos, particularly during the late 1990s, focused on creating yachts that offered strong sailing performance while remaining easy to handle, even for a small crew or single-handedly. The 301, with its clean deck lines and user-friendly features, aligns perfectly with this "fast cruising" philosophy, which seeks to make sailing simple and enjoyable. The hull itself is constructed from hand-laid fiberglass, a robust method known for requiring minimal maintenance. While Hanse collaborated with renowned designers like Judel/Vrolijk & Co. for many of its models, the 301 itself strongly represents the company's core design principles. During its production run, the Hanse 301 was primarily offered with a 10HP Volvo Penta MD2010 engine, though some versions were fitted with a more powerful 20HP engine. Additionally, a shallow draft option was available, providing versatility for various cruising grounds. Some owners have also noted variations in keel types, including a wing keel option.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hanse 301 is recognized for its excellent nautical characteristics and easy handling. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.52, the Hanse 301 is classified as a relatively powerful boat for its size, suggesting good performance, especially in lighter winds. Its ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.39, indicates a good level of initial stability, allowing it to stand up to a decent breeze. Furthermore, with a displacement to length ratio of approximately 155.6, the 301 falls into the lighter-displacement category for a cruising boat, contributing to its lively performance. The vessel boasts a hull speed of 6.84 knots. Owners generally commend its performance, noting its capability as an ideal cruising yacht that still offers engaging sailing characteristics. Discussions among owners highlight its good behavior in various conditions, including rough seas, underscoring its solid build and handling capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its under-30-foot length overall, the Hanse 301 offers a thoughtfully designed and ergonomic interior aimed at maximizing space and comfort. The interior finish predominantly features warm mahogany-faced marine ply, complemented by blue fabric upholstery throughout. The forward section typically houses a comfortable V-berth, complete with under-berth lockers for storage. The main saloon features settees and a folding table, with a notable design characteristic being a chart table positioned in front of the saloon table, leading to a non-centered layout. Aft, the boat generally includes an aft cabin, providing additional berthing. The galley is typically L-shaped, offering practical space for meal preparation. The yacht is equipped with a 26-gallon (100-liter) freshwater tank and a pressure water system, enhancing onboard convenience. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design aims to optimize the feeling of spaciousness for a boat of its size.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hanse 301 frequently praise its robust construction, with some reporting no major structural problems even after many years of ownership. The boat is widely regarded as a great sailing vessel and an ideal cruising yacht for its class. The standard Volvo Penta MD2010 engine, and the optional 20HP version, are generally considered reliable. However, some owners have noted that dark blue hull versions can be prone to fading and chalking over time, requiring more frequent polishing to maintain their appearance. There have also been isolated reports of osmosis developing in the hull on some older models.