YACHT testHanse 508 - Cruising yacht from Germany put to the test

Fridtjof Gunkel

 · 05.02.2019

YACHT test: Hanse 508 - Cruising yacht from Germany put to the testPhoto: 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 Hanse celebrates its premiere at boot. The test in PDF download
  Crack drawing of the Hanse 508Photo: YACHT/N. Campe Crack drawing of the Hanse 508

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, complements 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 swim ladder that swings out to the side, the stern galley (an extra), the easy accessibility of the deck, various hatches and ventilators, the separate sail load and the ample storage space in the owner's cabin in the foredeck should be emphasised. The galley is 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 YACHT test in issue 3/2019, which can be ordered directly from the publisher or downloaded as a digital edition.

Or you can download the test directly via the link below.

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

Downloads:

Fridtjof Gunkel

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.

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