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beneteau 311 sailboat review

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  • Sailboat Reviews

Three Big-Three 30s – The Beneteau 311, Catalina 310 and Hunter 326

The beneteau 311, catalina 310, and hunter 326 represent what could be called 'entry-level' cruising boats from the major makers, and here's how they could be compared....

In an ideal world, all sailors would start in prams at the age of six, then move to small, forgivingsloops, and then one-design racingboats, and then bigger cruising boats. But that’s rarely the way it works. In recent years there have been a considerable number of people able to proceed directly to “Go” and skip the early parts. This was a concept that stumped us while we looked for a way to compare “entry-level” cruising boats from the big boatbuilders. Obviously, people can enter cruising at any level, whether in a 50-footer, a trailer-sailer, or a battered old Rhodes 19 with a blue tarp and a cooler.

After surveying manufacturers, dealers, and owners, and considering the demographics of the sailing community and the profile of newcomers to the sport, we settled on a definition of “entry-level cruising boat” that would at least let us get our arms around an article. How about this: “a boat that lives in the water on a mooring or in a slip, and that has space on deck and below in which, say, four people can relax, eat, sleep, and travel in protected waters for a few days in decent comfort.”

We chose the Beneteau 311, Catalina 310, and Hunter 326. They seemed to match well in terms of size, sail area, ease of operation, accommodations, and price. Dimensions are comparable, as are working spaces on the deck, the type and arrangement of gear, cockpit size, and space and furnishings below. All are equipped with a suit of sails and headsail furlers. Sure, Catalina builds a 30-footer, and the 320 that could possibly have been included. Hunter has a recently introduced 306, a twice-stretched version of the Hunter 28… and so on. But this is a batch of oranges worthy of comparison. Depending upon options added, shipping, and commissioning, the range is $70,000-$80,000 for a new boat in this market. Competitive pricing makes these boats worth a close look when compared to used boats in the same size range.

An interesting aside: We learned in talking with builders and dealers that they know their market, including personality types, and the likely use of the boats. By their accounts, Catalina owners are more likely to sail, and work on, their boats; Hunter owners are more likely to use the boats for dockside entertainment, and reach for a credit card when repairs are to be made. Beneteau owners seem to fall somewhere in between.

The Companies

Beneteau, Catalina, and Hunter are the equivalent of the Big Three automakers-they produce the vast majority of sailboats sold worldwide. Beneteau is the largest producer in the world. Hunter, the largest in the USA, also has a European production facility. Catalina Yachts has become the second-largest builder in the US, and has an international distribution system. More than 70,000 Catalina sailboats have been built.

All three hulls have fuller, rounder shapes than production cruising designs of even a few years ago, and they’re a lot tubbier than traditional sloops. The type of design usually produces a big interior volume that maximizes the physical comfort of the crew dockside, usually at the expense of stowage space for the contents of duffle bags, and for boat gear.

Like many Beneteau models, the 311 was designed by Group Finot in France. She has a plumb bow, reverse transom, rounded bilges, and sloping cabintop. Mike Thoney of Beneteau USA describes the boat as being “designed to be easy to handle as a fast, contemporary, performance cruiser. The target market for the boat is younger families, and older sailors moving to smaller boats.”

Beneteau 311

The Beneteau plant in South Carolina has built 120 of the 311s since it was introduced in 1998.

Hunter’s 326 was introduced in May, 2001, and more than 100 have been delivered in the US since then. Like most Hunters built since the mid-’90s, it’s characterized by high freeboard, a round cabin, and a rounded stern accentuated by a rubrail that covers the hull-deck joint. A stainless steel arch over the cockpit to bear the mainsail controls is now a standard feature.

Glenn Henderson, chief naval architect and director of engineering for Hunter, says “the 326 buyer probably had a 24-26 footer, so this is his first boat that needs a slip. It can be comfortably used for coastal cruising, is more forgiving than older models, and has more responsive steering.”

Hunter 326

Many readers will know Henderson for the fast sailboats he’s designed under his own name. It’s no surprise when he says, “We’re placing increased emphasis on the performance aspects of all of our boats, within the constraints of our owner group. Performance doesn’t just equate to speed, because our owners are family cruiser groups. We consider safety a performance criterion. Positive stability is a major concern. We know that our boats are used for entertainment purposes, but still design every boat to withstand the treatment given by more serious sailors. The 326 hull features a moderately full forward section designed to accommodate crew and stores without affecting trim. She was designed as a Category B boat for CE certification.”

The Catalina 310 is the most traditional- looking of the three, with a moderate overhang on the bow, high-aspect mainsail, and rounded stern. Standard headsail is a 135-percent genoa, but a 155-percent sail is an option.

Catalina 310

“The boat was introduced in 1999, and we’ve built 212,” says Gerry Douglas, vice president and chief designer at Catalina. “The design started with the 320 six years ago. She has a fine forward entry, flat aft section, and narrow waterline beam. She’s rounded amidships to provide weight for load carrying without changing the trim.”

Compared to the others, the most significant difference is Catalina’s intent to make this boat a generous cruiser for two people, not a cramped cruiser for four. The forward stateroom is bigger and the berth easier to access than the others. The trade-off is that the aft sleeping area is wide open, enclosed by a curtain.

“We think it’s a radical departure from most small boats. We wanted a small boat with big-boat feeling, like our 38 without all of the extra furniture,” Douglas says. “It’s not worth trying to enclose the aft area because that would shorten the saloon. This is a ‘drink eight, feed four, sleep two boat,’ with a long cockpit for sleeping outdoors.”

It’s this kind of definitive builder’s statement that serves boatbuyers best-prospective buyers know immediately whether this boat will work for them, at least in its overall purpose. Douglas may lose a few at the outset, but it’s a much better approach than one that promises everything vaguely.

Deck and Cockpit

Three criteria apply in evaluating cockpits: the ease with which the helmsman and crew can operate the boat, crew comfort, and stowage. The size and accessibility of swim platforms and other accessories are separate considerations.

The rounded shape of the Hunter cockpit is described by owners as being “like a bathtub” compared to the more conventional shapes of the others. The Beneteau and Catalina carry the beam farther aft to a wider section at the stern, which makes for more comfortable seating space than in the 326’s stern quarter.

All are equipped with 32-inch stainless steel wheels large enough for steering while standing or seated amidships. However, the wheels are too small to allow driving from the rail. The Whitlock rack and pinion steering on the Hunter is an unusual touch, and seemed more responsive than the cable steering on the others.

All three boats are equipped with steering pedestals that house instruments and tables. The tables on the Beneteau and Catalina fold out of the way in front of the pod; the Hunter has 17″ long leaves on the side of an equally long pedestal. Though the pedestal has a built-in cooler, the design inhibits movement when the table is raised.

All three have adequate space behind the wheel to steer comfortably; however, space between the pedestal and

companionway on the Hunter is only 24″, compared to 36″-39″ inches on the others. The result is a cramped space for passengers near the companionway.

Conversely, the 43″ between seats on the Catalina is criticized as being too wide by owners who say the cockpit sole needs a footrest. “The first boats had one,” says Gerry Douglas, “but we removed it because owners said it was a toe-stubber.”

Owners. Can’t live with ’em… Let’s put it this way: If you want to actually sail the boat, you should spend a Saturday morning adding a teak strip to the sole; otherwise, passengers will be tempted to move aft and huddle with feet braced against the pedestal.

All three have 78-80″ long seats that allow a six-footer to stretch out for a snooze, and backrests 11-13″ high that provide lumbar support.

Storage on the Beneteau is in lockers running the length of the seats on both sides of the cockpit. These are large enough for dock lines and accessories, and an inflatable dinghy. The Hunter and Catalina have a hatch under one seat for use as an emergency exit for passengers in the aft compartment. That compromises the storage area; the Hunter partially offsets the loss by adding two storage compartments on the swim platform.

Rigging and Gear

The Beneteau has a single-spreader 7/8 rig; the Catalina has a doublespreader masthead rig. The Hunter’s mast is set in a double-spreader B&R configuration: Spreaders are swept aft and there’s no backstay. Shrouds are arranged in a diamond pattern; one set terminates on the rail, the other on the cabintop. Hunter claims that this arrangement allows the use of smaller mast sections, with a reduction of weight aloft, plus the use of full-roach mainsails.

Mainsail controls are mounted on a stainless steel arch over the cockpit. Appearance aside, there are a couple of arguments in favor of this arrangement: It keeps the mainsheet tackle and traveler out of the cockpit, and it allows the sheet to terminate at the end of the boom, a plus for sail shape control. The sheet is led from the end of the boom forward to the mast and then aft again to the cockpit. Harken traveler track and cleats are located on the arch; traveler control lines terminate near the helmsman’s fingertips. However, the traveler arrangement, as it turns out, is a $593 option that’s standard on the other boats. This may reflect the sailing proclivities of the target market.

A major disadvantage of the arch is that, absent a mainsail flaking system, you’ll need someone from the Chicago Bulls to get the sail settled on the aft end of the boom.

The Hunter’s competitors have more traditional stayed rigs. The Beneteau’s shrouds terminate on deck, the Catalina’s on the cabintop. Both have decks 16-18″ wide, and handrails, so movement forward when heeled in unimpeded.

Mainsail controls on the Beneteau and Catalina are forward of the companionway because few cruisers want the hardware to interfere with creature comfort. Both are equipped with a solid vang, however, which improves sail shape and performance.

Catalina wins the winch competition by installing four Lewmar winches as standard equipment. In comparison, the Hunter is equipped with two Lewmar self-tailers on the coachroof; coamings are pre-molded to house optional primaries. The Beneteau is equipped with three, but we doubt many owners will decline to purchase the optional fourth.

All three boats offer easy sailhandling capabilities, with halyards and sheets led to the cockpit. The Hunter offers better sail-shaping capabilities but, as one Hunter owner said, “that arch still reminds me of a Bayliner.”

Since we’re evaluating boats that are 32 feet long on deck, we don’t expect enough room below to host a reception for the Queen.

Saloons: The Hunter’s saloon, the largest of the three, is 128″ long from the bottom of the companionway step to the bulkhead, and 90″ wide from the settee backs. Any space created in the saloon has to come from somewhere.

In this case, its the cockpit.

All three boats have enough hatches on deck, and fixed and opening ports, to allow light and fresh air to flow freely, even in the heads and aft staterooms.

Light wood and white headliners on the Hunter and Catalina produce brighter spaces. Interestingly, Hunter now installs a “Whisper Soft” headliner that has removed 120 pounds from the overhead, “most of it putty,” says Glenn Henderson. The new liner is easily removed and replaced.

Despite the boats’ mid-range prices, all of the builders are improving the fit and finish of joinery. Hunter’s use of computers to cut wood sections produces a dramatic improvement over 10-year-old boats-enough to begin to rival Beneteau, the best finished of the bunch.

The primary difference between the layout of interior spaces is that the Catalina, as Gerry Douglas readily explains, is not designed to be the host boat at a rendezvous; the others are more likely candidates.

The Catalina features a pedestal table arrangement that allows a ‘cocktail table’ measuring 16×22″ to be converted to a dining table by placing a portable tabletop on the smaller unit. The 30-lb top is stored out of the way in the aft compartment. However, as one owner told us, “it’s cumbersome, and one of the only disadvantages of this boat.”

With 12-14″ more space amidships between the settee backs, the Catalina has more lounging space. Neither the dining area or settee to starboard are intended to be used as bunks, though.

In contrast, the Beneteau and Hunter have tables located amidships that, with leaves open, allow for comfortable dining by 4-6 adults. Six-footlong settees port and starboard provide comfortable seating and additional berths.

Galleys: Seacooks will be more impressed with the workstation in the Catalina or the Hunter than the Beneteau. All galleys are equipped with stainless steel sinks and doubleburner stoves. However, counter space in the Beneteau is a flat surface measuring 18×20″. The largest, the Hunter, has a C- shaped galley with a counter on the aft bulkhead measuring 21×36″, and an L-shaped work area at the sink.

Nav stations: as one builder told us, “navigation stations on this size boat are almost unnecessary since most instruments will be mounted on the pedestal, or be portable.” The Catalina has a small chart table aft of the stove, with seating on the aft bunk. The Hunter’s chart table has aft-facing seating on the port settee. However, instruments on the bulkhead must be surface-mounted or they’ll be exposed in the head. The Beneteau’s chart table houses a refrigerator, so has no legroom.

Sleeping accommodations: On the Hunter and Beneteau, overnight sleeping accommodations are in enclosed staterooms fore and aft. The Beneteau’s are more spacious: Aft to port, the skipper’s quarters house a berth wide enough to allow two to sleep fore and aft, leaving space below the cockpit for storage on the other side. Three ports, one on the stern, and reading lights provide ventilation and illumination. The berth in the forward stateroom is 80″ long, and 50″ wide at the shoulder.

Hunter’s aft stateroom offers room in which to dress with 6′ of headroom at its entrance, next to a large hanging locker. A queen-sized berth is oriented athwartships. The berth is only 4″ above the cabin sole, significantly increasing space overhead comparedto many aft staterooms. The forward stateroom pays for the extra space in the main saloon. With only 5’5″ of headroom, the V-berth is 6’5″ long with an insert in place, but abuts the forward bulkhead, leaving no room to stand when the insert is in place.

The Catalina has the best stateroom of the lot, a queen-sized berth on an island in the bow with 24″ of clearance between bulkhead and berth. The aft sleeping compartment is large enough for children or one adult.

Heads: The Catalina’s head gets the nod. It’s larger, and has a shower separated by a hanging curtain. An 18×15″ mirror covers a deep medicine cabinet. Cleaning supplies can be stored under the sink.

So, in a nutshell, the Beneteau and Hunter offer more living and sleeping areas; the Catalina will more comfortably accommodate a couple or a family with small children. The Hunter and Catalina have larger galleys; the Hunter and Beneteau the better nav stations.

Specifications - Beneteau 311; Catalina 310; Hunter 326

Construction

The construction methods used in these boats bear a striking resemblance to each other-a reflection of the degree to which the industry is becoming standardized. All three companies follow techniques that allow the mass production of lower-priced boats by combining the most efficient use of labor with volume purchases of raw materials. They generally buy most raw materials and equipment from the same suppliers, and use many of the same computer models. The differences these days are primarily in the execution of the layup schedule.

In effect, the companies construct a hull into which a grid-and-beam system is installed, along with liners (pans) that define spaces belowdecks and provide furniture bases. Similarly, decks are molded and laid over flanges, to which they are bonded and through-bolted. A rubrail or toerail typically conceals the hull-deck joints.

In the past, these methods often produced ill-fitting bulkheads and squeaky cabinetry. More recently, accurately molded components and improvements in bonding material have significantly reduced those problems.

Common denominators are the use of vinylester resins to prevent osmotic blistering, 3M 5200 (or, in the case of Beneteau, “3M-like materials”) to bond hull-deck joints; various combinations of mat and roving, and deck gear solidly attached to backing plates.

Hunter lays up hulls using “Hunter Kevlar Technology.” Glenn Henderson says there’s a lamination of four layers of hybrid E-glass and Kevlar in high-impact areas from the forward edge of the keel to the stem. The hull is solid fiberglass under the waterline; above the waterline topsides are laid up with a combination of Coremat and Baltek end-grain balsa. Decks are laid up with woven roving and cored with marine-grade plywood. Aluminum backing plates are laminated into the deck where hardware will be mounted, and winches are through-bolted. Plywood is used un-der low-load halyard and sheet organizers.

Gerry Douglas says the layup of the Catalina 310 mirrors that of the companys predecessor 320: The hull is solid fiberglass with a double thickness on the centerline. The deck is cored with plywood, and the cabintop with end-grain balsa.

Catalina has been installing aluminum backing plates in the layup to provide a solid base for deck hardware for several years. Hardware is installed in tapped holes to ease removal for maintenance, prevent deck leaks, and eliminate dimples in the headliner. These are certainly good features, but we’d like to express the same concerns we did last month in our review of the Cabo Rico 38, which uses a similar system, but in stainless steel: If the threads in these plates are stripped, or if stress fractures develop in the surrounding glass, it will bring on a major headache.

The largest manufacturer of sailboats in the world, Beneteau has mastered the art of reducing labor and material costs while moving boats quickly down the production line. Like those of its many sisters, the 311’s hull is solid fiberglass reinforced by an internal grid system of beams and stringers. A monocoque approach is taken to the installation of bulkheads, which are bonded 360 degrees to the hull and deck.

The deck is cored with balsa for stiffness, and a liner provides additional stiffness, insulation, and facilitates maintenance.

All three of these boats are constructed to meet CE Standard B, the designation for coastal cruisers in Europe.

Like their counterparts in the automobile industry, boat manufacturers are learning that adding options to the base boat has its advantages. It removes many purchase decisions. (What kind of microwave, honey?) It adds high profit-margin items to the purchase price. And it helps eliminate problems created by aftermarket installations.

There are some significant differences: Catalina and Beneteau both provide refrigeration as standard equipment; Hunter does not. Hunter includes a Raymarine VHF radio/ knotmeter/depthsounder package, the only instrumentation that’s standard on the three. However, Hunter charges for the mainsheet traveler ($593), and primary winches (Lewmars, for $990). Catalina, much to its credit, includes four winches as standard gear.

Profiles - Beneteau 311; Catalina 310; Hunter 326

Performance

We sailed all three boats, but it would be unfair to base a performance comparison on our tests. The Catalina had a full-cut main; the others mainsail furlers that reduce sail area by 17-20%. Headsails were different sizes. One boat was loaded to the gunwales, another stripped bare. One bottom hadn’t been cleaned in a year.

However, we did form some opinions: All three sail well in light air, and can tack within 80-90. Their helms are well-balanced. The Hunter is the tenderest, especially in moderate puffs. She would benefit from a built-in foot brace, since steering while heeled and sitting isn’t comfortable.

We sailed the deep-draft versions of all these boats: They all forged ahead nicely after some initial heeling in puffs. Presumably they would lose some lift and develop more leeway in their shoal-draft configurations.

All will exceed 6 knots on a reach in 12-15 knots of wind, but we wouldn’t call any of them fast. Performance suffers especially when sailing below a broad reach, when small headsails are blanketed by the main. We can’t imagine owning one of these boats without a light-air drifter.

Based on numbers alone, they should perform to within 10-15% of the each other. Though the Beneteau is 30% lighter than the Catalina, the latter boat did well in light air, and will probably be more comfortable, and drier, in a blow or steep seas. The SA/D and D/L indicate that the Beneteau and Hunter are faster, but these numbers ignore the positive aspects of a good hull shape, and we think the Catalina loses nothing here.

All the builders have maximized the use of space, albeit in different ways. Construction methods are similar.

They are nicely appointed, if not well-equipped. Deck hardware is laid out and sized properly for typical inshore sailing conditions. The engines, too, seem properly sized; we motored at 5-6 knots easily with little noise below.

There’s no way to pin down which of these boats is the “best.” Any of them will meet the needs of “entry-level” sailors, according to the definition we made early in the article, and it really comes down to what shape pleases you, what minor variations in accommodations suit you best, and how you like the feel of the boat when sailing it.

The Beneteau is arguably the bestfinished of the lot. It’s also the least expensive and, on paper, the fastest. The Hunter has more innovative design features (including the arch), and a good layout below for a quiet getaway. If we had to pick one ourselves, though, we’d go with the Catalina, despite the weight and the extra expense. We like the hull form and the familiar sailing characteristics. We also favor the “open floorplan” on a boat this size-privacy isn’t as important as air and traffic flow. The 310 is likely to prove the most comfortable for a combination of family life and sailing.

Beneteau USA, 24 North Market

St., Suite 201, Charleston, SC

29401; 843/805-5000. Catalina

Yachts, 21200 Victory Blvd.,

Woodland Hills, CA 91367;

818/884-7700. Hunter Marine,

Route 441, PO Box 1030,

Alachua, FL 32615; 386/462-3077.

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Would love to get a estimated pricing for a In-Boom Furling Mainsails for my Hunter 310 if they make such a item, it would make single handed sailing manageable.

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Beneteau 311 Reviews

beneteau 311 sailboat review

The Beneteau 311 combines the amenities of a large cruiser with the easy handling performance of a 30-footer. It features private cabins forward and aft, a full galley with plenty of storage, and a generous main salon with centerline table. The Beneteau 311 also features an optional retractable keel. All of these features make the 311 a versatile boat perfect for family cruising, or for simply relaxing and watching the sunset from the harbor.  The Beneteau 311 and Oceanis 311 are the same boat.  Beneteau USA just dropped the Oceanis name for marketing reasons.

  • Displacement 8,047 lbs
  • Draft 2’7 to 7’1
  • Engine 18 hp
  • Fuel 17 gallons
  • Water 48 gallons
  • Holding 13 gallons
  • Mast Height 46’7
  • Dspl/L 127.3
  • SA/Dspl 18.6

BoatPoint.com.au Review

Beneteau’s Oceanis Clipper 311 is one of the entry-level models in the marque’s Oceanis series of fast cruising yachts from 8-14m The Clipper 311’s GRP laminated hull measures 9.85m by 3.23m, and was designed by Group Finot as a true all-rounder. Rigged to be easily managed by the cruising couple, it also has the liveaboard credentials to comfortably accommodate a family. http://www.boatpoint.com.au/reviews/1999/beneteau-oceanis-clipper-311-8891  

YachtandBoat.com.au Review

25th Apr 2011 Issue: September 2000 If you want to draw a few conclusions about the complexity (or lack of it) of modern-day yacht design, have a look at the Oceanis 311 and its cousins. The Oceanis 311 has the same hull as the Beneteau 31.7, a handy and roomy cruiser/racer (tested in MB Sept ’99). This hull was designed in the early ’90s as a one-design boat for the Figaro race, a stage event around Europe in which many top solo skippers cut their teeth, build their reputations and head on to stardom in the extreme multi- and monohulls. http://www.yachtandboat.com.au/news/beneteau-oceanis-311-review  

GoSail.CO.UK

The Beneteau Oceanis 311 was designed by Groupe Finot in 1998 and offers an enjoyable combination of lively yet controlled sailing and luxurious accommodation. Like the earlier Oceanis 300, the Oceanis 311 comes in two versions, the fin-keel and the lift-keel, twin rudder version (the latter proving especially popular in France). She uses the same basic hull design as the Figaro I racing class and the First 31.7, and these impressive racing class credentials give her a level of performance unusual amongst other blue water and coastal cruisers. http://www.go-sail.co.uk/beneteauoceanis311.asp   Contact Murray Yacht Sales to upgrade to the new Neil Pryde PBF Main (vertical battens & more sail area) for the In Mast Furling option for any of the US built models. Available:

  • Equipment list
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Beneteau 311 Layout

beneteau 311 sailboat review

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BENETEAU 311 Detailed Review

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If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of BENETEAU 311. Built by Beneteau and designed by Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot), the boat was first built in 1998. It has a hull type of Fin w/bulb & spade rudder and LOA is 9.83. Its sail area/displacement ratio 22.16. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by Yanmar, runs on Diesel.

BENETEAU 311 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about BENETEAU 311 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.

Boat Information

Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, auxillary power tank, accomodations, contributions, who designed the beneteau 311.

BENETEAU 311 was designed by Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot).

Who builds BENETEAU 311?

BENETEAU 311 is built by Beneteau.

When was BENETEAU 311 first built?

BENETEAU 311 was first built in 1998.

How long is BENETEAU 311?

BENETEAU 311 is 8.74 m in length.

What is mast height on BENETEAU 311?

BENETEAU 311 has a mast height of 11.16 m.

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  • Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311

The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 was designed by Group Finot, and built by the French boatbuilder, Beneteau. Its production period was from 2001 to 2005 over which a total of 1,040 boats were manufactured.

Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311

The Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 was available in two versions with different drafts:

  • The fixed-keel version has a draft of 4'8" (1.42m);
  • The centreboard-equipped version which has a draft of 7'1" (2.2m) with the centreboard down and 2'7" (0.8m) with it up.

Published Specification for the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311

Underwater Profile:  Bulb fin keel with twin rudders

Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)

Length Overall:  32'3" (9.8m)

Waterline Length:  28'8" (8.7m)

Beam:  10'6" (8.7m)

Draft:  4'8" (1.4m)

Rig Type:  Fractional sloop

Displacement:  7.716lb (3,500kg)

Ballast: 2,425lb (1,100kg)

Performance Predictions based on the Design Ratios

Based on the published design ratios, the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 is expected to deliver a solid performance.

  • Its Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of 22.1 indicates a well-powered sailboat capable of impressive speeds, particularly in heavier winds. It does, however, require skilled handling in stronger winds.
  • The Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of 31.4 suggests a moderate level of stability. This boat will respond lively to wind gusts and may heel quite rapidly, yet it will also offer an exciting and responsive sailing experience.
  • A Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of 146 places the boat in the heavier displacement category. This means it may not perform well in light wind conditions, but it will be more comfortable and steady during long-distance cruising, providing a smoother journey at sea.
  • The Comfort Ratio (CR) of 17.5 falls into the middle range suggesting a good level of comfort for the crew during sailing. This sailboat would not have a very rough motion in waves, making it well-suited for average wind and sea conditions.
  • Finally, the Capsize Screening Formula (CSF) value of 2.1 is slightly above the general safety guideline of 2.0. This indicates that the boat could be more prone to capsize in certain conditions. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean the boat is unsafe, but it does underline the importance of skilled handling and prudent seamanship.

To summarize, the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 should present a balance between comfort and performance, offering an enjoyable cruising experience particularly in moderate to heavy wind conditions.

The Designer

Group Finot, now known as Finot-Conq Architects, is a renowned yacht design firm that has been instrumental in bringing forth some acclaimed sailboats.

Pioneered by Jean-Marie Finot and Pascal Conq, the design team has been credited for their innovative and performance-driven design approach in the competitive sailing realm. They have been the vanguard behind the acclaimed designs of both racing yachts and cruising yachts. Notably, they have designed a series of Beneteau models including the Beneteau Oceanis range.

They also designed the Opium 39, the Pogo range for Structures shipyard which includes Pogo 30, Pogo 36 and the high-speed cruiser Pogo 50. Their portfolio is diverse and extensive, marking their significant influence in sailing yacht design.

The Builder

Beneteau, founded by Benjamin Bénéteau in 1884, is one of the oldest and most prominent boat-building companies in the world. Originating as a small shipyard in Croix-de-Vie, France, Beneteau initially built fishing boats and later expanded to recreational yachts due to increased leisure sailing popularity. The company is famed for its Oceanis, First, and Sense series in the sailing categories, and Antares and Flyer series in the motorboats segment. Iconic models over the years include the Beneteau First 30, Oceanis 38, and Beneteau Oceanis 55.

Today Beneteau has developed into a global leader in boat building, encompassing numerous other brands including Jeanneau, Lagoon, and Prestige under its umbrella. Despite the industry fluctuations, Beneteau has preserved its status and is very much a thriving entity. Today, under Luca Brancaleon's leadership, it continues to manufacture an array of dedicated cruising and racing sailboats, and motorboats, along with luxury yachts, symbolizing the unmistakable French nautical engineering and design.

In conclusion, the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311, with its robust manufacturing and thoughtful design, has carved out a significant place among cruising sailboats. Notably lauded by the sailing press for its fusion of performance, stability, and comfort, the yacht carries the distinctive stamp of its designers, the Group Finot.

Many owners have often reported their satisfaction with the boat, noting its adept handling in diverse sailing conditions, its seaworthy characteristics, and the living comfort it grants.

Although production ceased in 2005, consistent demand for this model remains a testament to its enduring appeal. Despite newer models and designs joining the sailing scene, the Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 continues to be highly reliable, embodying the brand's tradition of quality and innovation while also echoing Group Finot's maritime design expertise.

Other sailboats in the Beneteau 'Oceanis' product range:

A Beneteau Oceanis 343 at anchor

I wrote this article using GPT-4, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model, as a research assistant to develop source material. I wrote the final draft in its entirety and believe it to be accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Dick McClary, creator and owner of sailboat-cruising.com

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  • Sailboat Guide

Beneteau Oceanis 311

Beneteau Oceanis 311 is a 32 ′ 3 ″ / 9.8 m monohull sailboat designed by Jean Marie Finot (Groupe Finot) and built by Beneteau starting in 1998.

Drawing of Beneteau Oceanis 311

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

  • SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
  • D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
  • LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

  • D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
  • LOA: Length overall in feet
  • Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

P with roller furling mast = 36.29 ft/11.06m The FIGARO SOLO, FIRST 310, FIRST 31.7, STARDUST 311, and OCEANIS 300 are all based on this same hull design. OPTIONAL LIFTING KEEL W/TWIN RUDDERS: (not shown on drawing) This model features twin rudders and a wing/plate at the bottom of the keel that keeps the boat upright when beaching. (OCEANIS 311 CLIPPER designates a version with more standard equipment.)

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Beneteau 311 vs Tartan 31

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I am looking at two boats and I wanted to hear everyones thoughts on the two boats. I know they are very different and i'm not comparing apples to apples but hear me out. I was set on the Tartan which was a late 80's Tartan 31. However I came across an early 2000's beneteau 311 and now I'm having a hard time choosing. The Tartan is a much better boat but the beneteau is 15 years younger and after speaking with the owners I think I could get them at about the same price. The Beneteau owner is very motivated to sell otherwise they would not be in the same price range They are both in very good condition for their years. Is the Tartan really that much better that I can over look the 15 years? I am looking to mostly sail the east coast of Florida and the Bahamas a couple times a year. I might do some local club races from time to time also but nothing serious.  

I am looking to mostly sail the east coast of Florida and the Bahamas a couple times a year. I might do some local club races from time to time also but nothing serious. Click to expand...

PCP

PCP said: On a 30 year old boat you have to make a lot of questions, for example: When was the rigging changed? (some say that should be changed every 10 years, some say more, but certainly a 30 year's old rigging is not fit anymore). The mast is the original? If so you have to look very carefully. Aluminum tend to turn brittle with time and to corrode on the links. The boat engine?....the freezer engine?...the pumps?, all rubber parts... last time the boat had an epoxy coat barrier...has the boat osmosis?, or absorbed water on the hull? An old boat can be as new but that means that only the hull and the interior are the same. Almost all systems and other parts should have been replaced. Many that have old boats (or new for that matter) sail only occasionally and use the boat very little and just don't do an adequate maintenance other than visual. Bottom point you need to know how much money you are going to need to put both boats to specs and probably you are going to need a lot more to do that in a 30 year old boat than in a 10 year old boat (that's why old boats cost less) but each case is a case Regards Paulo Click to expand...

overbored

It may come down to the equipment that they come with and the condition of the equipment. if they are of equal price and you have to buy stuff for one then it is really a more expensive boat. thats to say if you need all that stuff. why is the Tartan a better boat? both of them can and have been used for your missions. is the older boat really in as good a shape as the newer one? for me it would be the Bene, it is newer better looking and a better layed out cockpit. in ten years it will be a 20 year old boat the Tartan will be 35 going on 40 though a good looking boat it will look very old by then  

RobGallagher

Go for the boat which better describes the kind of sailing you do... Bene..more creature comforts, wider salon and cockpit....Tartan..better made..better sailing over all...Fractionalk spreadrrs vs non. The elctronics on the Bene are newer...maybe unless the Tartan has been constantly maintained and upgraded in which case many of the Tartan systems could actually be newer than the Bene. I know this will get me in trouble So heres the deleama...do I want the newer girl with the fat ass wide body for her size and stubby nose who looks like everybody else...or do I want the classy girl...who is a little older with more experience, better looker, takes care of herself and is more of an individual. Dave  

Dave, Haha I like the analogy. Forgive me for being ignorant but what is the difference between fractional spreaders and non? Which boat has which?  

Surveyor, surveyor, surveyor.....after you decide which boat pulls at you. You certainly should not need a new mast...if you do run away! Standing rigging, they are about the same age on both based on your statements. Really depends on use and care more than age. Many boats still have the same standing rigging 20 or more years later, but it gets costly when it has to be replaced. 20 plus year old sails will need to be replaced if you want performance. The 10 year old sails might be in the same condition as the 20 plus year old sails dependent on use. Some people replace sails every two years because they race and work them hard. Some wait 10 years, and some obviously never replace them based on the Tartan you are looking at. Sails will cost you from under $5,000 to over $15,000 dependent on what you choose. You will find that boats are a very nice hole to pour your money into. The most important thing is that you find a hole(boat) you really like before you start pouring, because you are most likely not going to get much of it back when and if you sell. Whatever you do: HAVE IT SURVEYED!!!!!!  

Unless it is obvious to you that the tartan mast shows signs of corrosion, or the standing rigging has problems in any of the boats, have them surveyed. Here you have a simple proceeding to find yourself if the boat has problems on the mast or on the running rigging. If in doubt look for a surveyor: BoatUS.com - Seaworthy Magazine Sailboat Rig Problems - J. Stormer And how about the engine? The tartan has still the old one? Regards Paulo  

On the Tartan expect to 100% replace the entire rig, including spars. Plus engine overhaul Price those 2 costs  

WDSchock said: On the Tartan expect to 100% replace the entire rig, including spars. Plus engine overhaul Price those 2 costs Click to expand...

Decide which boat makes your heart happy and then make your decision. I would not assume anything until you look closely at the boat, make your decision, and then offer and survey. You can then re-negotiate based on the survey if it brings up anything critical. A 20 something boat with original sails has probably not been sailed hard so let a surveyor ( a good one!) tell you what you are looking at. None of us has seen the boat and anything said is an assumption. You don't make purchase decisions on assumptions! Just make certain that you have money in the kitty to fix what your surveyor tells you plus a back up for the unexpected. Good Luck!  

mitiempo

I doubt the mast and boom would need replacing unless damaged. Especially if the boat was not raced hard. The rigging at 12 years is a maybe, depending on condition.  

The reason behind thinking the spars will need to be replaced: After 30 years, every single connection on the rig is going to be suspect. The spars maybe ALU but the fittings will be SS. The mast head, mast step, and every single rivet/screw will all be sources of galvanic action. I am speculating the last time the rig was throughly checked was 12 years ago when the shrouds were replaced.  

  • A grid is used instead of conventional construction and you can't inspect the hull beneath the grid. Also water tends to collect under the grid and the limber holes are not well placed to allow the water to drain to the sump with bilge pump
  • In 5 foot plus seas the bow tends to slam down off of waves making a huge noise with very large shock
  • One cannot safely walk through salon while underway since there are no handholds along the centerline (or close to it)
  • No lee cloths
  • Terrible access to wiring for adding things and/or replacing existing (corroded) wires
  • Very large cockpit with insufficient handholds
  • Much newer boat with good spars and standing rigging
  • Much more space for entertaining
  • Nice swim platform (sugar scoop)

sailguy40

311 owner I may be bias and I have never sailed a Tartan. However, I just purchased an 01 Beneteau 311 with lazy jack system and solid Keel. The thing is fast and stable. It virtually sails itself, with just the right amount of windward helm. I don't know who is telling you that the Tartan is a better boat. What is the PHRF on the Tartan? The Beneteau is 141 which makes it very competitive for its class. I really like the full toe rail and the aft rail seats on the 311. I would only buy a boat with a Yanmar diesel I don't trust the other brands. I added another battery under the sink to handle the nav equipment and refrigerator compressor more effectively. I would go with the Beneteau.  

TropicCat

It depends on what you plan on doing with the boat. If you're a weekend sailor with an entertainment budget, buy the Benneteau. Beneteaus are very pretty, Tartans are a much better built boat. If it were me, I'd examine the spreader mast connection on the Tartan then note the engine hours. If less than 5000 hours and the spreader mast connections show no corrosion, and all other things were even, I'd make an offer on the Tartan less what new 1 x19 wire and staylocks would cost to replace the standing rigging.  

Don L

I thnk the OP should just keep looking for a boat! All the newer verse older, high production vers lower production (there're both production boats) etc etc is just fine and good things to think of. But it in the end if you are doing all this it means neither boat talks to your heart. Listen to your heart some!  

I'm unfamiliar with the Tartan, but I bought a new French-built 1999 Bene 311 in '99. It had the Yanmar 2GM20, a 2 cylinder which my son and I renamed Yammermar. The boat sailed beautifully, looked great, was well maintained, handled lots of rough seas on Chesapeake Bay, including one brief bout with 50+knots, but motored horribly. I had to have the engine overhauled twice, once for blown rings, the second for a broken crankshaft. Shortly after buying it (less than a year later), I wished I had bought a bigger boat. Buy the biggest damn boat you can possibly afford. In 2008, I bought a new 393. Watch us on youtube at Nicholsquarters.  

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Beneteau 31

  • By Mark Pillsbury
  • Updated: October 14, 2008

beneteau 311 sailboat review

Spirited wind gods had whipped San Francisco Bay to a 30-knot frenzy during the final days of the Strictly Sail Pacific boat show last April, but they finally took a break in time for us to test-sail the new Beneteau 31, the entry-level offering in a now robust line of 30- and 40-footers that includes two CW Boat of the Year winners, the 40 and the 49.

With the wind in the low teens, we left the docks at Passage Yacht Sales, pushed along by a 20-horsepower Yanmar and conventional drive. The boat maneuvered well backing out of tight quarters and accelerated smoothly through the chop as we raised sails.

In-mast furling is an option on the 31, but the boat we sailed had a full-batten main that stows in a boom-mounted pouch. Both the main and the 105-percent genoa on a Profurl furler are easy to handle but powerful enough to move the boat in lighter winds. When sailing the boat off the wind, I’d take advantage of the open bow pulpit and choose the optional asymmetric cruising chute to keep things lively.

A fold-up transom seat gives the helmsman a place to sit and allows easy access to the swim platform, a dinghy, or the dock. The relatively broad aft end provides ample room going forward in the cockpit, past the standard 36-inch wheel. On the 31, a fold-up hatch in the port quarter provides space for a life raft; by adding a container, it could be used to store gear. A conventional locker is to starboard.

Cockpit seats are long enough for a nap and close enough to provide bracing when heeled. Coamings, though, end at the binnacle, so while the person steering has a flat deck on which to sit, there’s little to brace one’s back against, and I found the pushpit too far away to provide a comfortable support when sitting to leeward.

From the helm, the skipper has good access to the boat’s primary winches, a pair of Lewmar 30s, but reaching the mainsheet, which leads to a third winch on the cabin top, requires leaving the wheel.

Under sail, the spade rudder and Goiot steering give the boat a lively and responsive feel. Our speed sailing closehauled over the ground averaged a little better than 5 knots in 12 knots true; when we were cracked off to a beam reach, the readout on the G.P.S. increased to about 6.3 knots. With its small headsail, the boat tacked with ease through only 70 degrees or so, promising an efficient ride upwind.

A low coachroof and genoa tracks along the cabin leave the decks clear for movement fore and aft. Teak handholds on the cabin top are stylish, but like others on this new breed of Beneteaus, they’re open only on one side, and I found it hard to get my fingers around them. A good-size anchor locker on the bow has a mounting space designed for an optional windlass.

Groupe Finot created a hull with a fine entry and beam carried well aft; its larger siblings have all been enjoyable sailers, and the 31 didn’t disappoint. The interior, meanwhile, benefits from the straight-lined and elegant thinking of Nauta Design. There are no curved settees and whimsical doodads on this cruiser. Instead, purposeful and comfortable seats on either side of a drop-leaf table can, with the addition of lee cloths, double as sea berths or places to stash little crewmembers once the spacious athwartships aft-cabin berth and V-berth have been filled.

At the foot of the companionway, a head and shower sit to starboard. To port, the L-shaped galley is equipped with a two-burner propane stove and oven, and there’s an icebox with 12-volt refrigeration outboard of the double sinks, which are positioned on the L, closer to the centerline where they belong. Storage space is behind and under the countertop. Forward of the head, the nav station faces aft and uses the end of the settee for a bench. The electrical panel mounted above the desk opens with the push of a latch to reveal neatly organized wiring and automotive-style fuses that can be reset. Both the desk and the galley counters opposite have solid fiddles that also serve as good handholds.

The placement of the forward bulkhead maximizes space in the saloon for entertaining a couple or the family. The trade-off: a V-berth that’s functional for sleeping but not overly roomy, especially with the filler section in place for the berth. That said, there’s 6-foot headroom, a hanging locker for clothes, storage below the mattress, and shelving to either side. The saloon and V-berth both have opening hatches, and with five opening ports, ventilation should be good.

The hand-laid solid-fiberglass hull derives stiffness from a grid that’s bonded and glassed into place while still in the mold. An injected, cored F.R.P. sandwich forms the deck, which sits on the hull’s turned-in flange and is glued and screwed in place. Bulkheads are bonded 360 degrees to the hull and deck using a polyurethane adhesive. While sailing, I found that this construction meant no squeaks or groans below. You can choose between a 6-foot-1-inch standard cast-iron keel or a 4-foot-5-inch shoal-draft version.

One of my favorite details on the 31 is the weatherboard and the companionway hatch, a design used on both the 31 and the 37. (See “Beneteau 37: Quick on its Feet,” August 2008). Once the Lexan hatch has been pushed forward into its seahood, the weatherboard, also clear Lexan, lifts out and slides into place under the hatch and out of the way, solving the problem of where to store the panel below.

The new 31 is entry level in terms of size and price only-$115,000, ready to sail on the U.S. East Coast. With its teak toerails, stylishly arched cabin top, and good performance under sail, delivers a lot of boat for the dollar and, in this regard, fits in well with the rest of the family.

Mark Pillsbury is Cruising World’s senior editor.

LOA 31′ 8″ (9.60 m.) LWL 28′ 6″ (8.69 m.) Beam 11′ 1″ (3.38 m.) Draft (standard/shoal) 6′ 1″/4′ 5″ (1.85/1.35 m.) Sail Area (100%) 463 sq. ft. (43 sq. m.) Ballast (standard/shoal) 2,207/2,412 lb. (1,001/1,094 kg.) Displacement 8,933 lb. (4,052 kg.) Ballast/D (standard/shoal) .25/.27 D/L 172 SA/D 17.2 Water 34 gal. (129 l.) Fuel 34 gal. (129 l.) Mast Height 46′ 7″ (14.2 m.) Engine 20-hp. Yanmar Designer Groupe Finot Price $115,000 Beneteau USA (843) 629-5300

To read more Cruising World reviews of Beneteau sailboats, click here . To visit Beneteau America’s website, click here .

  • More: 2001 - 2010 , 31 - 40 ft , beneteau , Coastal Cruising , monohull , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
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Océanis 311 Keel and centerboard

Sailboat specifications.

  • Last update: 30th March 2020

Océanis 311's main features

Océanis 311's main dimensions, océanis 311's rig and sails, océanis 311's performances, océanis 311's auxiliary engine, océanis 311's accommodations and layout, océanis 311's saloon, océanis 311's fore cabin, océanis 311's aft cabin.

Bénéteau Océanis 311  Picture extracted from the commercial documentation © Bénéteau

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First Yacht - Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper

  • Thread starter DueSouth
  • Start date 31 Jan 2022
  • 31 Jan 2022

My search for my first yacht continues and I would appreciate any points regarding a Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper, circa 20 years old. She had new sails and looks well cared for, a lot of other extra inventory and well equipped. My original brief was to find a yacht to allow my young family (wife, 8 and 5 year old's) to get into sailing - Having sailed mainly dinghy's in my younger days and only been on a yacht a few times over the years, this will be a new venture for all of us in many ways. I was originally looking for a Bavaria 34 cruiser or bigger, wanted a yacht to do some coastal cruising and on occasion cross the English Channel... Please share your thoughts on a Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper being able to meet this brief. Many thanks.  

wully1

Well-known member

I don’t see why not? some people will need want a bigger boat for all sorts of reasons but often smaller is better, especially for a first boat. It will be also cheaper and easier to moor , maintain and handle as you get used to a bigger boat from what you’ve been used to. The accommodation should be perfectly adequate and they are at least as well built as the Bavaria - I looked at both before buying an older Westerly Storm which suits me better for all sorts of reasons. You and your family really need to go and look at as many of the boats you are interested in, preferably back to back in the shortest space of time to get a good feel for them.  

KompetentKrew

KompetentKrew

DueSouth said: My original brief was to find a yacht to allow my young family (wife, 8 and 5 year old's) to get into sailing - Having sailed mainly dinghy's in my younger days and only been on a yacht a few times over the years, this will be a new venture for all of us in many ways. Click to expand...

I am an expert "what boat" thread aficionado and a slightly less expert sailor. One thing since brexit and the pandemic is that it's all very well doing masses of research but in reality there is not much available. It is also clear to me that when everyone asks about capabilities of boats, the capability of the skipper is usually miles more important than the capability of the boat. Shane Acton circumnavigated on a 19 foot caprice, Jonathan Green won the Ostar (Original Single Handed Transatlantic Race) in a Beneteau Oceanis 351. So if the boat doesn't smell too bad and it gets a decent survey go for it before it sells! Actually the most important question is if your wife likes it? If not you will be sailing on your own. If you procrastinate it will be gone.  

Bobc

It'll do the job just fine.  

johnalison

It’ll do what it says on the tin. Boats of that general style will need reefing earlier than you may be used to, for comfort and decent performance, but that may not be a bad thing and will make you and the family more aware of the weather. Many people start with something like a Bav 34, but although it s a forgiving boat it is larger than I would think ideal. You would trade a little more comfort against greater costs, heavier loads when handling gear, and a boat that was less handy to manoeuvre in harbour.  

Firefly211

I owned a Beneteau 323 for 10 years (just a slightly updated 311 with same hull and layout and mostly same machinery and gear.). Sailed her from UK to the Med and served me proud. Even lived aboard for around 9 months. Aft cabin is big for adults and vberth great for kids and occasional guests. Great sized heads! Huge cockpit locker. As others say, reef early, more comfortable and sails faster. Your hull is a domesticated Figaro race design which was a fast design In its day. Relatively flat hull so they can slam a bit in the rough. I‘ve never been a fast (or good) sailer but I worked on 6 - 7kts for passage planning And usually kept pace with bigger boats. At just under 10m they are easy to squeeze into busy marinas and I found having less beam than modern designs they fit better in older marinas where berths can be a bit narrower. As you would expect, deep keel versions track a bit better and point higher than the shallow draft or lift keel version. Easy to manage single handed And perfect for a couple. usually a 21hp Yanmar that gives enough push but check engine elbow has been changed. Mine also needed a water pump in the last season I owned her, might be worth checking. Manoeuvres well, I found them easy to park. As with any boat of that age check the obvious stuff. I ran a program of running maintenance; I’d changed all seacocks (a couple each season), shaft seal, shaft bearing, etc. check the fridge as the compressor is getting older and mine was problematic at times. Holding tank pump might need a refresh. Mine had the vetus pump and the joker valves needed routine fettling (have spares aboard When cruising). My boat was 15yrs old when I sold her and there were no major issues with survey. The 311 /323 are great small family coastal cruisers that can have longer legs to hop over Biscay, etc if prepped well.  

Concerto

Any boat should be able yo do what you want. Boats of all eras have their benefits and problems. The advice would be to find a boat that you like and is in acceptable condition. The Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper should meet your requirements, so try to see it as soon as possible and if you like it, negociate to buy it.  

Concerto said: Any boat should be able yo do what you want. Boats of all eras have their benefits and problems. The advice would be to find a boat that you like and is in acceptable condition. The Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper should meet your requirements, so try to see it as soon as possible and if you like it, negociate to buy it. Click to expand...
roblpm said: I am an expert "what boat" thread aficionado and a slightly less expert sailor. One thing since brexit and the pandemic is that it's all very well doing masses of research but in reality there is not much available. It is also clear to me that when everyone asks about capabilities of boats, the capability of the skipper is usually miles more important than the capability of the boat. Shane Acton circumnavigated on a 19 foot caprice, Jonathan Green won the Ostar (Original Single Handed Transatlantic Race) in a Beneteau Oceanis 351. So if the boat doesn't smell too bad and it gets a decent survey go for it before it sells! Actually the most important question is if your wife likes it? If not you will be sailing on your own. If you procrastinate it will be gone. Click to expand...
Firefly211 said: I owned a Beneteau 323 for 10 years (just a slightly updated 311 with same hull and layout and mostly same machinery and gear.). Sailed her from UK to the Med and served me proud. Even lived aboard for around 9 months. Aft cabin is big for adults and vberth great for kids and occasional guests. Great sized heads! Huge cockpit locker. As others say, reef early, more comfortable and sails faster. Your hull is a domesticated Figaro race design which was a fast design In its day. Relatively flat hull so they can slam a bit in the rough. I‘ve never been a fast (or good) sailer but I worked on 6 - 7kts for passage planning And usually kept pace with bigger boats. At just under 10m they are easy to squeeze into busy marinas and I found having less beam than modern designs they fit better in older marinas where berths can be a bit narrower. As you would expect, deep keel versions track a bit better and point higher than the shallow draft or lift keel version. Easy to manage single handed And perfect for a couple. usually a 21hp Yanmar that gives enough push but check engine elbow has been changed. Mine also needed a water pump in the last season I owned her, might be worth checking. Manoeuvres well, I found them easy to park. As with any boat of that age check the obvious stuff. I ran a program of running maintenance; I’d changed all seacocks (a couple each season), shaft seal, shaft bearing, etc. check the fridge as the compressor is getting older and mine was problematic at times. Holding tank pump might need a refresh. Mine had the vetus pump and the joker valves needed routine fettling (have spares aboard When cruising). My boat was 15yrs old when I sold her and there were no major issues with survey. The 311 /323 are great small family coastal cruisers that can have longer legs to hop over Biscay, etc if prepped well. Click to expand...
opwanderer said: { "lightbox_close": "Close", "lightbox_next": "Next", "lightbox_previous": "Previous", "lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.", "lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow", "lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow", "lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen", "lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails", "lightbox_download": "Download", "lightbox_share": "Share", "lightbox_zoom": "Zoom", "lightbox_new_window": "New window", "lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar" } Click to expand...

fredrussell

KompetentKrew said: I too am speechless at @Concerto 's failure to recommend a more suitable Westerly. Click to expand...
Concerto said: Many people seem to be satisfied with these more modern boats and I can see no reason why he would not get satisfactory sailing from one. It would not be my choice, Click to expand...

Beneteau381

DueSouth said: My search for my first yacht continues and I would appreciate any points regarding a Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper, circa 20 years old. She had new sails and looks well cared for, a lot of other extra inventory and well equipped. My original brief was to find a yacht to allow my young family (wife, 8 and 5 year old's) to get into sailing - Having sailed mainly dinghy's in my younger days and only been on a yacht a few times over the years, this will be a new venture for all of us in many ways. I was originally looking for a Bavaria 34 cruiser or bigger, wanted a yacht to do some coastal cruising and on occasion cross the English Channel... Please share your thoughts on a Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper being able to meet this brief. Many thanks. Click to expand...

V1701

Concerto said: ... As for fredrussell, well his comments do nothing to help the OP as it is nonsense. By the way I do not have any red trousers. Click to expand...

Skylark

Concerto said: The OP, DueSouth, is looking for a safe cruising boat for his young family. Many people seem to be satisfied with these more modern boats and I can see no reason why he would not get satisfactory sailing from one. It would not be my choice, but my Westerly Fulmar suits me just fine and I expect to keep her until I swallow the anchor. It seems just answering the OP's question is too much for you, Skylark and Buck Turgidson. As for fredrussell, well his comments do nothing to help the OP as it is nonsense. By the way I do not have any red trousers. Click to expand...

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Beneteau Oceanis 323 review: from the archive

Yachting World

  • May 5, 2021

At first glance, the Beneteau Oceanis 323 is exactly what you would expect a Beneteau Oceanis to look like: a beamy, high-sided cruiser with a modest rig, a centre mainsheet and minimal hardware to break up the expanse of white deck.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-in-action-credit-Beneteau

Downwind, the boat was eager to surf and held 7 knots for lengthy periods. Credit: Beneteau Credit: Beneteau

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

The appearance of the Beneteau Oceanis 323 suggests simple, economical family sailing, lots of room and a modest performance – or does it? Closer inspection makes you think again, because the hull looks surprisingly slippery.

It is, in fact, essentially the same hull that Groupe Finot and Jean Berret designed in the early 1990s for Beneteau’s single-handed offshore racer, the Figaro.

Since then it has been used for two other sporty Beneteaus , the First 310 and First 31.7, as well as the Beneteau Oceanis 323’s predecessors in the Oceanis range, the 311 and 300.

It says a lot for this hull that the French boatbuilding giant has now used it for six models over more than a decade.

Various tweaks to the bow, stem and topsides have been made to suit the design in question, but the under­water sections have remained unchanged.

Something else you might not appreciate on seeing the Beneteau Oceanis 323 afloat is that her stan­dard keel is an iron bulb whose tip plunges to 5ft 11in (1.80m) below the water.

Combined with her race-bred hull, this healthy draught and a displacement / length ratio of a mere 129 should make the new Oceanis rather more sprightly than her cruisy get-up suggests.

The 311, by con­trast, draws just 4ft 7in (1.4m) – that’s 2in (50mm) less than the Beneteau Oceanis 323 with her option­al shallow fin.

Visually less subtle than the tweaks to the topsides and coachroof styling that have transformed the 311 into the Beneteau Oceanis 323, is the introduction of navy blue gelcoat as an option.

Listed among the extras for a few hundred pounds, it has become increasingly popular in recent years and had been specified for both the new-generation models I sailed recently from Beneteau’s home port of St Gilles Croix de Vie – the Beneteau Oceanis 323 and her bigger sister, the 373.

Turning the wheel

From on the boat, of course, you don’t see the blue – just the white of the deck, so you’re prompted to keep your sunglasses close at hand.

Teak-covered seats offer some visual relief in the cockpit, where sub­mouldings screwed to the floor of tiller­steered boats – like our test model – are a due that wheel steering is on the options list too. One moulding is a foot-brace; the other allows the pedestal to be fitted.

If you choose a wheel, as most owners have so far, you will still be able to take advantage of the easy boarding through the transom afforded by the twin backstays and the hinged centre section of the stem seat.

That’s because Goiot have come up with a nifty system that allows the wheel to be rotated through 90° about its vertical axis, so it lines up fore-and-aft and leaves a generous passage on the starboard side of the pedestal.

Another option chosen by most owners is a mainsheet traveller. We had the standard system of dead-eyes instead, and found a problem: with the deck block mounted on the port side, we ended up with the boom well below the centre line when sailing upwind on starboard tack, while on port tack it was virtually amidships. A little re-thinking is called for here.

Easing the mainsheet on port tack and reducing mainsail twist by using the kicker was impossible, because the 4:1 purchase was woefully inadequate and the tail was jammed in a cleat on the underside of the kicker rod itself rather than being led aft.

To my mind, that’s taking economy too far. The rest of the rigging and deck hardware was better.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-plan-credit-Beneteau

Beneteau Oceanis 323 plan.

For example, blocks were sewn into the mainsail’s leech to reduce friction in the single-line reefing system – though there were only two reefs.

Unless you have a spinnaker (or, more likely, a cruising chute), you will probably be able to manage with the standard arrangement of five Spinlock XAS clutches on the port side of the coachroof.

Sited ahead of the Lewmar 30 self-tailer, they handle the mainsheet, jib furling line, two reefing lines and main halyard.

The genoa halyard lives at the mast, as does the topping lift, so Beneteau have managed without fitting a winch, clutches or deck organisers on the starboard side.

Reinforcement in the moulding allows them to be added later, once you’ve cut through the headliner to reach the deckhead.

Nothing else stood out at deck level apart from some blocks and shackles that looked on the small side for a 32-footer.

In assess­ing their size, however, it’s important to remember that the Beneteau Oceanis 323 places less strain on her fittings than some boats of similar size because she has a conservative sail plan and a lower righting moment (her ballast ratio is a modest 25.7%).

Her stability curve shows that the shallow­fin version achieves her maximum righting moment at 50° of heel and has a vanishing angle of 118° – hence her Category B status.

By way of comparison, the figures for the twin-keeled Sadler 290 – which is 3ft shorter – are 60° and 140° respectively, taking her into Category A.

Windward ways

How powerful the Oceanis would be upwind in a breeze was hard to tell. In 12 to 16 knots of apparent wind and a modest chop on top of the Atlantic swell, she made a respectable 5.5 knots or so and tacked through an average of about 80°.

The unbalanced main­sheet system made the recording of tacking angles rather arbitrary, though there’s no reason to suspect that the boat shouldn’t hold her own in most company – at least in moderate conditions.

I suspect she might lose out in lighter airs because her maximum upwind sail area is just 546sq ft (50.7sq m), and she felt under­powered during the lulls.

Increasing the headsail’s area would help – several square feet could be gained while still allowing it to be sheeted inside the rigging.

An appreciably larger rig, on the other hand, could jeopardise her stability. Therein lies a fundamental difference between the likes of the Oceanis and boats such as the Sadler, for example, Beneteau choosing the relatively low-ballast, small­rig approach, with the former opting for lots of low-down ballast and a relatively larger spread of sail.

Since the Beneteau Oceanis 323 is a cruising boat, it might seem churlish to be too picky about the finer points of her sailing performance.

But the spirit of the Figaro still remains, serving as a reminder of her racing pedigree and alerting the crew to her potential, whereas some no-frills cruisers hardly seem interested in even trying to sail.

Her balance and responsiveness, in fact, encouraged me to helm from the cockpit coaming.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-on-deck-credit-Beneteau

LEFT: An offset mainsheet system gives the boom a port bias, though most boats have the optional traveller; Right: The tail of the kicker’s purchase is cleated at the base of the strut.

It was a reasonably comfortable perch even though the standard tiller extension was on the short side and, of course, the mainsheet was out of reach. Nor can the sheet be reached if you prefer to sit inboard; that’s the trade-off for an uncluttered cockpit.

Not being able to dump the mainsail quickly can lead to problems in breezy con­ditions with boats that are prone to broaching, so it was good to find that the Beneteau Oceanis 323’s rudder kept her on track until the toerail was approaching the water, at about 35° of heel.

For a wide-bodied boat with a rudder that has to be shallower than the shallow fin (the same rudder is fitted with either keel), that’s a respectable angle.

Downwind, the boat was eager to surf and held 7 knots for lengthy periods.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-in-action2-credit-Beneteau

Her appearance suggests simple, economical family sailing, lots of room and a modest performance – or does it?

With a folding prop instead of the fixed two­blader, she’d have done even better and the undisturbed water-flow over the rudder would have improved the feel of the helm.

Saildrives tend to reduce the disturbance because of the greater distance between prop and rudder, but Beneteau are unusual among high-volume builders in choosing to stick with shaft-driving engines.

A shaft­log is moulded into the hull, leaving just enough shaft exposed to accept an anode and a rope-cutter.

The Volvo 2020 provided ample power and, while it didn’t run quite as smoothly or as quietly as a well-installed saildrive, noise and vibration levels were unobtrusive at most speeds.

Another difference between the two types of drive is that shafts tend to result in more of a kick in astern, so it was no surprise to find the Beneteau Oceanis 323 pulling to port initially before gaining full steerage way within half a boat-length or so.

Looking closely

Back at the dockside, it was time to look around on deck and to note that the Beneteau Oceanis 323 still finds room for a veritable cavern of a cockpit locker to starboard, despite having a bigger heads compartment than the 311.

The calorifier tank at its forward end is covered by a false floor, above which on our test boat was the mains distribution system and battery charger.

Some electrical experts are uneasy about having this type of equipment where it’s close to wet warps and fenders and likely to suffer from condensation.

Leaving the cockpit and moving down below, you’re greeted by large areas of dark mahogany that contrast sharply with the white of the galley worktop, the tray moulding and the headlining.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-saloon-credit-Beneteau

A conventional layout, with sea berths each side in the saloon. The joinery is mahogany.

The layout is conventional, with sea berths both sides in the saloon, the star­board one doubling as a seat for the aft­facing chart table. Given the enormous heads compartment on the other side of the bulkhead, I wonder whether a little more of the boat’s length might have been devoted to the nav quarters, but that’s a question of priorities. Beneteau know what sells.

Also of note in the heads – apart from the sheer amount of space – was the mounting of the seacocks in the locker below the sink, so close to the edge of the moulding that they looked almost impossible to work on or replace.

Still investigating out-of-the-way areas, I was mildly concerned by the system of limber holes in the grid formed by the inner moulding.

The theory is that any water will find its way through them to the deepest point in the bilge, though I wasn’t convinced that it might not be just as likely to disappear into the labyrinth of tunnels and fester in some dark and remote corner for the rest of the boat’s life. Sponging out any water from self-contained shallow moulded trays might be preferable.

Beneteau-Oceanis-323-review-below-deck-credit-Beneteau

Left: An unusually roomy heads for a 32-footer; Right: A compact space at the chart table.

Reaching the bilge at all was a challenge, thanks to the tight-fitting floorboards whose unsealed end-grain could result in their swelling and getting even tighter.

More unsealed end-grain was in evidence in the joinery around the engine, where water is likely to collect from the stern gland, fuel filter, water filter and the drib­bling anti-siphon valve.

Engine access was generally good, though the moulded step unit was an unwieldy lump to move. It didn’t even have a hand­hold to provide a convenient grip. Shifting it out at sea without gouging the adjoining woodwork would be a challenge.

Removing the cover from the after cabin revealed the fuel filter with the forced-air ducting immediately underneath, just where you would want to position a drip­tray.

Another area of concern was the mounting of the battery switches at the forward end of the after cabin’s berth, where water sloshing around in the shallow bilge was only a matter of inches away and could easily make contact with the circuitry.

Having seen behind the switch panel of an Oceanis 311, I was interested in the arrangement on the Beneteau Oceanis 323, so I spent 10 minutes unscrewing and gently prising away the panel outboard of the chart table to be faced by something not dissimilar. Let’s just say that it could be made tidier and easier to reach.

Poking into lockers and crevices and behind panels throughout the boat revealed plenty of sharp screwheads, unsealed end-grain, dollops of bonding paste and roughly-cut mouldings, suggest­ing that the smallest Oceanis is assembled for economy rather than built for beauty or to last forever.

Still, it would be unfair to detail every niggle, because most are by no means unique to Beneteau.

On the plus side down below, the berths were all of a generous length, light and ventilation were provided by plenty of hatches and opening ports, and stowage was reasonable.

Removable plugs and panels in the headlining allowed access to most of the deck fittings.

A change for the better?

To sum up, the Oceanis 323 sails reason­ably well and gives you a lot of boat for your money: for under £60,000, you can buy a boat with a fair number of extras for family cruising.

It’s a formula that has worked well for Beneteau in the past, and it will no doubt continue to work with this new model.

First published in the June 2004 issue of PBO.

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Beneteau 311

  • Thread starter Tethys3
  • Start date May 5, 2015
  • Beneteau Owner Forums
  • Ask A Beneteau Owner

I recently purchased a 2001 Beneteau 311, I love the boat but have been puzzled by the plumbing. I seems that you have to open and close drain valves one at a time which doesn't seem right. Also, we just took the boat out of storage, filled the water tank and turned the water pump on- but water just trickles from the faucets. Is there a water valve I'm missing? Thanks for your help  

CapitalistSailor

CapitalistSailor

Tethys3, Congratulations on your purchase of a most excellent boat! I think you are referring to the plumbing under the sink in the head. There are three lines running to the bilge pump, each with a ball valve, all connected to the same manifold. Normally you would leave open the valve that opens to the line running from the bilge, and close the other two. The other two lines run from the refrigerator drain and the shower drain. When you want to pump out the shower drain or the refrigerator (I usually use ice), close the bilge line and open the line you want to use, run the pump as needed, and then close the valve you opened, and reopen the bilge line valve. The shower has its own switch for the pump on the front of the sink. Pull out the know to run the pump. There are also three thru-hulls below the head sink. One is for the sink drain, which should be simple to follow. The others are for the head intake and discharge. These three thru-hulsl are all in a row. I am referring to the lines as they are laid out in my 2000 Beneteau 311, Footloose. I assume yours are virtually identical.  

Tethys3, For the water faucets, there is a fine mesh strainer inside each one. I suggest unscrewing each one and see how the water runs without the strainer. I occasionally get little bits of gunk and sometimes little pieces of plastic. The hose you filled the water tanks with can be surprisingly dirty inside, and if you have disinfected or cleaned your tanks and lines, you could be getting some gunk from that. Good luck. Also, many diaphragm water pumps pump slowly for a few minutes, or a day, after they have sat all winter full of antifreeze. If you have antifreeze in the system, pump some water through until the pink color and sweet smell goes away, and let it soak for a while and see if that helps. Heads can be slow to pump after winter for the same reason.  

Jackdaw

Tethys3 said: , filled the water tank and turned the water pump on- but water just trickles from the faucets. Is there a water valve I'm missing? Click to expand

The Beneteau 311 owner's manual and brochure can be found at the link below. Look in the lower right of the page. http://community.ilovemybeneteau.com/boats.php?boat_id=26&type_id=1 Page 40 shows the layout and has a photograph of the value layout I described in my previous post.  

Ron20324

If you have more than one drain linbe open, the pump will just suck air from any line not sucking water. The fresh water, you don't say if the pump is running or not. If not, maybe a bad pressure switch in it? My B323 had a anti-siphon valve in the output of the water tank under the vee berth. It locked up and did not allow water through. I removed it and all is working fine.  

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  14. Beneteau 311 swing keel

    234. Beneteau 311 Ft Myers Beach. May 2, 2011. #2. Can't really tell you anything about the sailing characteristics of a 311 however the 311 is a boat I too am interested in. I'm looking for a shoal draft cruiser and have narrowed my list to a 311, an IP 27 Centerboard, and a Seaward. I looked at a 311 and really liked the layout and feel of ...

  15. Beneteau 331: A Popular and Powerful Cruising Sailboat

    The Beneteau 331 was a popular couples and family cruiser of which about 100 hulls were built from 1999 to around 2005. Today, many of these classic cruisers are sought out by first-time buyers as well as seasoned sailors. The Beneteau 331 is widely available today, on Yachtworld. Advertisement. A spacious cockpit and a walk-thru transom offer ...

  16. Océanis 311 Keel and centerboard

    The Océanis 311 is a 31'2" (9.5m) cruising sailboat designed by Finot Conq Architectes (France). She was built between 1997 and 2003 by Bénéteau (France) with 1042 hulls completed. The Keel and centerboard version features a centerboard inside of a short fin-keel allowing shoal draft while maintaining upwind capabilities. The Océanis 311 is as well listed, on Boat-Specs.com, in Fin ...

  17. First Yacht

    20. Visit site. My search for my first yacht continues and I would appreciate any points regarding a Beneteau Oceanis 311 Clipper, circa 20 years old. She had new sails and looks well cared for, a lot of other extra inventory and well equipped. My original brief was to find a yacht to allow my young family (wife, 8 and 5 year old's) to get into ...

  18. Beneteau Oceanis 323 review: from the archive

    The 311, by con­trast, draws just 4ft 7in (1.4m) - that's 2in (50mm) less than the Beneteau Oceanis 323 with her option­al shallow fin. Visually less subtle than the tweaks to the topsides ...

  19. Beneteau 311

    May 5, 2015. 1. Beneteau 311 Du Sable Harbor Chicago. May 5, 2015. #1. I recently purchased a 2001 Beneteau 311, I love the boat but have been puzzled by the plumbing. I seems that you have to open and close drain valves one at a time which doesn't seem right. Also, we just took the boat out of storage, filled the water tank and turned the ...

  20. Beneteau 311 boats for sale

    Find Beneteau 311 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Beneteau boats to choose from. ... Burton Waters Boat Sales | Ipswich, Suffolk. Request Info; 2002 Beneteau 311. US$47,000. ... Expert Beneteau 311 Reviews. Reviews. Beneteau 331: A Popular and Powerful Cruising Sailboat.