Excel 319 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Excel 319 is widely regarded by the Swedish sailing press, including archived reports from Båtnytt, as a "sailor’s boat" that emphasizes balance and feedback. The hull features a relatively narrow beam and fine entries, which allow it to slice through the choppy waters of the Baltic with minimal slamming. With a displacement of approximately 4,200 kg and a ballast of 1,750 kg, the boat boasts a ballast ratio of nearly 42%, providing exceptional stiffness and the ability to carry full sail longer than many of its contemporary French or German rivals.

The fractional 7/8 rig is a hallmark of Lindquist’s design philosophy, offering a powerful mainsail and a smaller, easily tacked headsail. This setup, combined with a deep spade rudder, ensures that the boat remains responsive even when pressed hard on a reach. Owners frequently report that the 319 tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal effort at the helm to maintain a straight course. Its Sail Area/Displacement ratio sits in a range that suggests a spirited performance in light to moderate winds, making it a competitive choice for club racing while remaining manageable for short-handed cruising.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Excel 319 reflects the classic Scandinavian aesthetic: high-quality mahogany joinery, a functional layout, and a focus on nautical practicality. The interior is divided into a traditional two-cabin configuration. The salon features twin longitudinal settees flanking a central folding table, while the L-shaped galley is positioned to starboard, conveniently located near the companionway for ventilation and communication with the cockpit.

A notable sibling to the 319 is the Excel 32, which debuted shortly after in 1991. While built on an almost identical hull, the 32 featured subtle refinements in the deck mold and interior finishes to modernize the aesthetic. In the 319, the aft cabin is tucked under the cockpit sole, providing a double berth that is generous for a 32-foot boat of this era, though headroom is naturally restricted in this area. The forward V-berth serves as the primary guest or owner’s cabin, with stowage lockers integrated into the hull sides. Throughout the cabin, the craftsmanship is evident in the solid wood moldings and the fitment of the floorboards, which generally lack the creaks found in mass-produced yachts of the same vintage.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Excel 319 with a focus on the structural and mechanical elements typical of 30-year-old Swedish builds. Based on technical discussions within the Swedish sailing community and Maringuiden archives, several specific areas warrant inspection:

• Sandwich Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Excel 319 utilizes a sandwich construction (likely balsa or foam) for the deck. Buyers should check for soft spots around high-load fittings like stanchion bases and jib tracks, which can indicate water ingress and core delamination.
• Saildrive Diaphragm: Most units were equipped with Volvo Penta diesel engines and saildrives. It is critical to verify the age of the rubber saildrive seal; if it is older than seven years, replacement is often recommended by manufacturers, despite the boat's overall robust build.
• Rudder Bearings: Given the performance-oriented nature of the spade rudder, the bearings can experience wear, leading to "play" or vibration at the helm.
• Grid and Keel Bolts: While the Excel 319 has a strong internal grid, a "hard grounding" can stress the keel-to-hull joint. Inspect the area around the keel bolts for any signs of cracking in the fiberglass or movement in the sealant.

The Verdict

The Excel 319 is a sophisticated choice for the sailor who values build quality and upwind performance over sheer interior volume. It is a quintessential Swedish cruiser that feels more substantial than its 32-foot length suggests.

Pros

• High Ballast Ratio: Provides a stable, safe platform for offshore sailing.
• Superior Joinery: The interior craftsmanship exceeds that of modern mass-production boats.
• Balanced Handling: The Lindquist-designed hull and fractional rig offer an engaging driving experience.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The sleek lines and low profile remain visually appealing decades after launch.

Cons

• Interior Volume: The narrow beam results in a tighter salon compared to modern "wide-transom" designs.
• Market Rarity: Finding a well-maintained unit outside of Northern Europe can be a challenge.
• Age-Related Maintenance: Potential issues with deck cores and saildrive seals require a diligent pre-purchase survey.