Hanse 320 Information, Review, Specs

The Hanse 320's production commenced in 2004, following Hanse Yachts' commitment to developing yachts that are accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of enthusiasts. The collaboration with Judel/Vrolijk & Co. was central to its conception, aligning with Hanse's broader strategy of partnering with leading designers to achieve cutting-edge performance and design. Judel/Vrolijk's expertise, often associated with high-tech racing yachts, contributed to the 320's spirited sailing characteristics.

During this era, Hanse Yachts, headquartered in Greifswald, Germany, was focused on combining strong sailing performance with ease of handling, a vision championed by founder Michael Schmidt. A hallmark of Hanse's design ethos, and a prominent feature on the 320, is the self-tacking jib, which significantly simplifies tacking maneuvers and makes the boat particularly well-suited for short-handed or single-handed sailing. While the core design remained consistent, minor variations appeared during its production run, including a shallow keel option and the introduction of a "Smartline" model later in its tenure. Some improvements, such as addressing initial issues with coach roof windows, were also noted in later production years.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hanse 320 is characterized by its balanced performance, reflecting its design as a capable cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.37, she offers decent performance across a range of wind conditions, though she might not be considered a dedicated light-air specialist. Her Displacement to Length ratio of around 218.6 places her in the moderate displacement category, contributing to a "more adult behavior in the waves" and a stable, non-nervous motion. The vessel's ballast to displacement ratio, around 0.284, is on the lower side, yet her fin keel with a bulb and spade rudder contribute to good stability and responsiveness.

Owners frequently praise the Hanse 320's "great" sailing quality and its ease of handling, particularly noting the benefits of the self-tacking jib. Its rudder response and overall maneuverability are described as excellent, both under sail and when powering. Despite its moderate displacement, the 320 is reported to be a "stiff" boat that stands up well to wind, proving fun to sail without being overly twitchy. Even with tiller steering, it is considered easy to handle, allowing the helmsman to "feel everything" the boat is doing.

Accommodations and Layout

The Hanse 320's interior is designed for comfort and practical living aboard, emphasizing spaciousness and a modern aesthetic. Below deck, the boat typically features a two-cabin layout, providing ample accommodation for its size. The design focuses on maximizing comfort and storage, aiming for a "home-like experience" with intelligent solutions for space utilization. The interior style has been well-received by owners, with the layout proving functional and accommodating. The spacious hull design translates into generous headroom and comfortable living areas, including a well-arranged salon, galley, and sleeping quarters. Like many Hanse models, the 320's interior often benefits from a clean, contemporary finish, sometimes allowing for owner customization.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hanse 320 generally express high satisfaction with the vessel, consistently praising its "great" sailing quality and easy handling, especially when short-handed, largely due to the self-tacking jib. Many appreciate its "stiff" and "adult" behavior in a seaway, finding it a secure and enjoyable boat for cruising. The maneuverability, both under sail and power, is frequently highlighted as a strength, contributing to a pleasant overall sailing experience.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted minor recurring issues, typical of production yachts. These have included general equipment issues and, on earlier models, concerns with coach roof windows, though these were reportedly addressed in later production versions. Instances of minor leaks or electrical problems, such as with navigation lights, have also been mentioned in owner forums, but these are generally considered manageable maintenance tasks rather than inherent design flaws. Overall, the Hanse 320 is seen as a robust and fun cruiser that delivers on its promise of accessible and enjoyable sailing.