Excess 11 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The defining characteristic of the Excess 11 is its "Pulse Line" option, which increases the sail area by approximately 10% via a taller mast and high-end grey Pro-Radial sails. This configuration significantly improves the Sail Area/Displacement ratio, making the boat surprisingly nimble in light airs where traditional cruising cats often struggle. According to an editorial review by Sail Magazine, the boat maintains a communicative feel at the helm, a rarity in a world of hydraulic steering and flybridges. By placing the helms at the aft end of each hull rather than on a raised bulkhead, the designer lowered the center of gravity and allowed the boom to sit closer to the deck, which increases aerodynamic efficiency.

In terms of sea-kindliness, the Excess 11 benefits from a high bridge deck clearance, which reduces "slamming" in choppy head seas. While it lacks the ultimate pointing ability of a performance cat with daggerboards, its fixed keels are optimized for a balance between lift and shallow-water accessibility. Owners often report that the boat tracks well off the wind, and the ability to see the sails directly from the helm—without looking through a bimini window—enhances the "monohull-like" connection to the water.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Excess 11 is characterized by a "less is more" philosophy that favors clean lines and weight reduction. It is available in two primary configurations: a three-cabin "Owner" version and a four-cabin version. The three-cabin layout dedicates the entire port hull to a master suite, featuring a large walk-around berth aft, a desk/vanity area amidships, and a spacious head forward. The four-cabin version is more common in charter fleets, providing two symmetrical hulls with four berths and two heads.

The bridgedeck salon is remarkably open, utilizing a square-top geometry that maximizes volume without increasing the boat's footprint. The galley is positioned aft to serve both the interior dining table and the cockpit. One notable variation is the "My-Spaces" customization, which allows owners to choose between various wood finishes and upholstery textures. While the headroom is generous throughout, the materials are lighter and more minimalist than those found on the Excess 11’s sister brand, Lagoon, reflecting its sporty positioning.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Excess 11 gained significant industry recognition shortly after its launch, winning the 2021 "Cruising Multihull of the Year" award from both Cruising World and Sail Magazine. Its cultural footprint has been expanded by several high-profile YouTube cruising couples who have documented trans-oceanic passages on the model, highlighting its capability as a blue-water cruiser despite its compact size. It is frequently cited in nautical media as the catalyst for the "New Generation" of catamarans that prioritize sailing sensations over sheer interior volume.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Excess 11 is a robustly built production boat, there are specific areas potential buyers should investigate:

• Helm Linkage Tension: Because of the long cable runs connecting the twin aft helms to the rudders, some owners have reported a "spongy" feel if the cables are not perfectly tensioned. Inspect the linkage for any signs of fraying or slack.
• Engine Access: The engine compartments are located under the aft berths. While this keeps weight centered, it can make routine maintenance slightly more cramped than catamarans with dedicated engine rooms accessed from the transom.
• Bimini Stability: The optional textile sunroof/bimini is designed to be lightweight and retractable. Check the stainless steel framing for any signs of stress fractures or vibration wear, especially on boats that have spent significant time in high-wind regions.
• Bulkhead Inspections: As with many modern production multihulls built with weight-saving vacuum-infusion techniques, it is prudent to have a surveyor check the primary structural bulkheads for any signs of movement or tabbing separation, though no widespread systemic failures have been reported for this specific model.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical support is the Excess Tribe, an official manufacturer-sponsored community portal that provides owners with direct access to technical manuals, maintenance schedules, and a forum for sharing modifications. Additionally, because the boat shares many mechanical components with the wider Groupe Beneteau stable (including Yanmar engines and Harken hardware), parts availability is generally excellent worldwide.

The Verdict

The Excess 11 is a successful bridge between the lethargic comfort of traditional cruising cats and the expensive complexity of high-performance carbon-fiber multihulls. It is best suited for sailors who are willing to trade a small amount of luxury for a significantly better experience at the helm.

Pros:

• Exceptional sailing performance in its size class, especially with the Pulse Line rig.
• Modern, bright interior with excellent visibility from the salon.
• High bridge deck clearance improves comfort in offshore conditions.
• Twin aft helms provide a superior connection to the wind and sea.

Cons:

• Less interior storage compared to bulkier competitors like the Lagoon 380 or 40.
• Twin helm stations leave the skipper more exposed to the elements compared to a protected bulkhead helm.
• The minimalist aesthetic may feel "sparse" to those accustomed to traditional teak-heavy yacht interiors.