YACHT test: Good better? Hanse 508 in the test

Fridtjof Gunkel

· 13.01.2019

YACHT test: Good better? Hanse 508 in the test

Photo: YACHT/M. Strauch

Hanse 508 travelling well: The new model is based on the proven Judel/Vrolijk design of the Hanse 505

With the 508, Germany's largest shipyard is finalising its current renewal cycle. The Judel/Vrolijk design celebrates its premiere at boot

With the new model, Hanseyachts has opted for the tried and tested: the lines are dynamic but not modernist, the boat is highly customisable and easy to operate. The sail plan has been improved; as an option, the derivative of a large genoa, permanently set on its own stay, supplements the shipyard's typical self-tacking jib. Halyards and sheets are operated aft on the two wheels, preferably electrically.

Comfort features such as a very ergonomic side-swivelling bathing ladder, the optional aft galley, the easy accessibility of the deck, various hatches and ventilators, the separate sail load and the ample storage space in the owner's cabin forward should be emphasised. The galley is also a rarity in this class: installed lengthways to the bulkhead on the port side.

What the new Hanse 508 can do under sail and in the harbour, how it is equipped and built, which competitors are comparable: Now in the current YACHT test in issue 3/2019, which is available from Wednesday, 16 January at the KIosk, can be ordered directly from the publisher or can also be downloaded as a digital edition.

A wide frame, large hull windows and an open stern characterise the Hanse 508

In addition to the gennaker, the boat can be sailed with a self-tacking jib and a furling genoa rigged in front of it

The large width provides stability and volume

The large genoa is sailed outside the shrouds, i.e. only on more spacious courses

The helmsman's seats partially close the stern

11 Images

More photo galleries:

15 Images

Underway with the large genoa sitting in front of the furling jib

The large hull windows and the striking superstructure are striking

Four deck hatches let plenty of light into the saloon, which is not yet fully equipped

The pantry is equipped with a bar module

The bathrooms have separate shower cubicles

9 Images

Photo: Yacht/ N. Krauss

From the outside, the large hull windows are the most striking feature

The superstructure has also been fitted with additional windows

The hull is from the 415, but the deck is a new design

The rear is closed by a bathing hatch, in front of which it is completely cut out

The superstructure is sheer, the hatches recessed

17 Images

Downloads:

Fridtjof Gunkel

Deputy Chief Editor YACHT

Fridtjof Gunkel was born on Helgoland in 1962; he started his sailing career there in the Opti and quickly switched to keelboats. North Sea Week, Cowes Week and Kiel Week were early stops, followed by many years in the Admiral's Cup scene on the cuppers “Container” and “Rubin” World Championships and international regattas in the Starboat, with the mini-maxi “SiSiSi” and various tonner yachts as well as participation in the Whitbread Round the World Race were further formative stations, flanked by extensive cruising trips. Fridtjof Gunkel joined YACHT back in 1985 as part of a traineeship, where he later became Head of the Test & Technology department and then Deputy Editor-in-Chief around 25 years ago. He is also responsible for the regatta and sports section. Fridtjof Gunkel privately sails a performance/cruiser moored on the Baltic coast, his favorite areas are the eastern Swedish archipelago and Brittany.

Home

YACHT test: Good better? Hanse 508 in the test

Downloads:

Fridtjof Gunkel

Most read in category Yachts