Maxi 1100 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Maxi 1100 was in production from 1999 to 2005. During this era, Maxi Yachts, under the stewardship of Nimbus Boats AB, maintained its reputation for constructing "well-designed and built yachts" known for their robustness and thoughtful engineering. Pelle Petterson's singular design influence is a hallmark of Maxi yachts, and the 1100 reflects his commitment to balancing comfort, safety, and speed. The hull of the Maxi 1100 is constructed from woven rovings with a PVC foam core, contributing to its durable build. While its production run was relatively short, the design remained consistent, with no widely reported significant variations like MkI or MkII iterations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Maxi 1100 is characterized by its responsive performance and easily driven hull. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 20.61, she is well-powered, suggesting a good ability to perform in lighter winds without being excessively burdened. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 39.3% indicates a decent level of stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze effectively. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 177.9 places the Maxi 1100 in the category of a lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser, capable of competitive speeds for her size. Owners and reviewers often describe her as an "understated fast cruiser" that offers "responsive performance under sail," making her a joy to handle in various sea states. The design successfully navigates the compromise between a family cruiser and a boat suitable for racing with friends.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Maxi 1100 is designed for comfort and practicality, featuring a modern layout with elegant and exclusive wood interiors, typically finished in mahogany with varnish. The quality of the interior finish is often noted as being "a cut above many production boats". The layout typically includes two cabins plus a saloon, offering sleeping accommodation for up to seven individuals. Good standing headroom is available throughout the interior. Modern amenities commonly found on these vessels include beige alcantara fabric upholstery, an electric toilet, and Eberspächer heating, contributing to a comfortable living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Maxi 1100 generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting the boat's solid construction and pleasant sailing characteristics. Many find it challenging to identify significant flaws, with any noted issues typically described as "nitpicking". However, as with any boat, some individual issues may arise; for example, one owner reported experiencing osmosis and fading gel coat, while another mentioned finding a crack in the keel. Overall, the collective owner sentiment leans towards appreciation for the Maxi 1100's balanced performance, comfortable accommodations, and the enduring quality associated with Maxi Yachts' Swedish build tradition.