Hanse 311 Information, Review, Specs

The Hanse 311 emerged from Hanse Yachts' commitment to innovation and accessible sailing, a vision championed by founder Michael Schmidt since the company's inception in 1993. Building on a foundation of combining performance, comfort, and modern design, Hanse aimed to create yachts that were enjoyable and straightforward to sail. The 311, like many Hanse models of its era, was a product of their collaboration with Judel/Vrolijk & Co., a partnership central to Hanse's design ethos of "fast cruising." This design philosophy emphasized excellent nautical characteristics, easy handling, and appealing aesthetics.

During its production run from 2000 to 2006, the Hanse 311 was largely consistent in its core design, reflecting Hanse's dedication to refined and efficient production. While there isn't a widely recognized "MkI" or "MkII" distinction for the 311, the model was offered with a standard maximum draft of 5.74 feet, alongside a shoal draft option of 4.5 feet, providing flexibility for different cruising grounds. Internally, the 311, along with the Hanse 300, featured luxurious, high-gloss interior finishes, although later Hanse models like the 400 offered a wider array of customization options. Minor differences in interior details, such as the navigation table or bathroom design, might be noted when comparing the 311 to closely related models like the 312 or 315, which shared similar hull forms and components.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hanse 311's design brief clearly focused on creating a vessel that was both lively under sail and manageable for a small crew. Her relatively low Displacement to Length ratio (approximately 176) indicates a lighter, more performance-oriented hull for a boat of her size, suggesting agility and efficiency. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 20.3, the 311 is well-powered, promising good performance in lighter winds, allowing her to accelerate quickly and maintain speed. The Ballast to Displacement ratio, at approximately 0.32, is moderate, providing a reasonable level of stability and stiffness to stand up to a breeze without feeling tender.

Anecdotal reports from owners and reviewers consistently praise the Hanse 311 for its "excellent performance," particularly its upwind capabilities, which are often cited as superior to other boats in its class. The boat is noted for being easy to sail and comfortable to handle, largely thanks to Hanse's signature features like the self-tacking jib and a single-line reefing system, which simplify sail handling, especially for short-handed sailing. While specific speeds vary with conditions and trim, owners report achieving speeds of 7 knots on a broad reach in 20 knots of wind, with potential for even higher speeds, demonstrating its capability as a "fast cruiser." Her hull features a beamy form with short ends, a broad stern, a large spade rudder, and a bulb-type fin keel, all contributing to her responsive handling and stable tracking. The Hanse 311 is capable of handling rough conditions with confidence.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its emphasis on sailing performance, the Hanse 311 offers a comfortable and practical interior layout suitable for coastal cruising and extended weekends. The design typically incorporates two double cabins, providing ample sleeping arrangements. The saloon is described as large and airy, contributing to a sense of spaciousness below deck. A good-sized head compartment is also part of the standard layout.

The interior finish prominently features elegant and warm-looking mahogany marine plywood for bulkheads and furniture, creating a classic nautical ambiance. Inside surfaces are typically finished with a topcoat, indicating attention to detail in the construction. For ventilation and light, the design includes opening hatches. The cockpit is self-draining and features large lockers, providing valuable storage for gear and provisions. The thoughtful layout ensures that the boat functions well as a comfortable cruising platform, balancing its performance aspirations with practical living spaces.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hanse 311 generally speak highly of its qualities, consistently praising its solid construction and its ability to deliver a comfortable motion in a seaway. The boat's excellent upwind performance and its ease of handling, especially for short-handed sailing, are frequently highlighted as major strengths. The self-tacking jib is a particular favorite, simplifying tacks and making the boat exceptionally user-friendly.

However, some common maintenance points and weaknesses have been noted. A recurring issue for some owners has been problems with the rudder bearings and occasional water ingress into the rudder. While not widespread across all models, some older boats might have specific issues like requiring engine replacement, which can be part of routine maintenance for a boat of its age. Overall, owners appreciate the Hanse 311 for its robust build and its fulfilling sailing experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a balance of performance and comfort in a manageable package.