Design and Construction
The ST keeps the basic hull, deck, and interior construction of the standard 360, but the deck core swaps balsa for recycled PET foam, a change that saves weight and serves as a trial for future models anchor. The hull itself is hand-laid sandwich with a balsa core, and the outer laminate layer uses vinyl ester resin for osmosis resistance. A lighter adhesive anchors the floor assembly in the hull than on the standard boat. Despite the weight-saving deck core, the ST is heavier on the spec sheet, a consequence of its 85-centimetre-taller rig and deeper, heavier T-keel. That keel is hollow in its upper section to drop the centre of gravity, and the rudder is a more efficient race-style spade than the base model's. Black deck hardware, black-coated railing supports, a carbon-fibre-clad gennaker nose, and perforated-film hull windows give the exterior a deliberately sportier look.
Rig and Handling
Hanse's stated aim with the ST is up to 10 percent more performance under sail through a deeper T-keel, increased area, and optimized rigging anchor. The mast stands 17.6 metres above the waterline — 85 centimetres taller than the standard 360 — carrying a 40-square-metre mainsail and a 106-percent furling genoa that together yield roughly 10 percent more sail area than the base boat. Low-stretch Dyform stays control the rig, and laminate sails are standard where they cost extra on the normal 360. On deck, a recessed mainsheet traveller runs long enough that testers noted a clear advantage in light winds, while two additional Lewmar manual racing winches (45 mm, more powerful than the standard boat's) handle genoa sheets led over the coachroof. The builder claims the modifications improve upwind efficiency and responsiveness without sacrificing comfort or ease of handling, and the ST is positioned to build a bridge toward the sportier Dehler models from the same line.
Accommodations
Below, the ST retains the flexible layout choices of the original 360, offered in two- or three-cabin arrangements with either the standard bathroom or nav-table versions. The base 360 was praised for a spacious interior relative to its length, and the ST carries that volume forward with a sportier treatment: subtly black mast support, handles, water tap, and companionway; upholstery with a decorative pattern; a colour-coded main bulkhead; and grey contrasting lockers. Ambient lighting and upgraded fabrics distinguish the cabins, while the cockpit table, electric anchor windlass with anchor gear, and additional deck fittings are drawn from the options list of the standard boat and made standard here.
Equipment and Deck Fittings
Standard equipment on the ST includes the upgraded winches, black hardware, recessed traveller, laminate sails, and the carbon-fibre gennaker nose. The electric anchor windlass and bow gear, cockpit table, and supplementary deck fittings arrive as standard rather than costed options. A Yanmar diesel of 29 hp (21 kW) drives the single propeller, backed by 160 litres of fuel and 345 litres of fresh water plus a 54-litre holding tank. CE design category A certifies the boat for offshore use.
The Verdict
The Hanse 360 ST is a thoughtfully evolved sporting cruiser: it borrows the proven volume and layout flexibility of an acclaimed platform and layers on a taller, more powerful rig, a deeper hollow T-keel, and a more efficient rudder, all wrapped in a darker, racier aesthetic. The PET-foam deck core and lighter floor adhesive show a weight-conscious construction ethos, yet the boat gains mass where it matters for stability and sail drive. For sailors wanting a dynamic, hands-on experience without giving up cruising comfort, the ST makes a coherent case.
Pros
- Deeper, hollow T-keel and taller rig for up to 10 percent more sail performance
- Retains flexible two- or three-cabin cruising interior with sporty detailing
- Laminate sails, racing winches, and electric windlass standard
- CE category A offshore certification
Cons
- Heavier than the standard 360 despite weight-saving deck core
- Sport-oriented deck gear demands more active handling than the self-tacking base model









