In 2009, the Slovenian company Elan Yachts presented the 310 model. In the large class test (YACHT issues 18 + 19/2010), the boat shone in comparison to the competition (Archambault A31, Dehler 32, J 97) above all with its - for a performance cruiser - very comfortable interior. In the comparison, the Elan 310 also received good marks for equipment, handling and build quality. With its double rudder blades and very wide stern, the boat also stood out conceptually.
The shipyard has now thoroughly revised Rob Humphreys' design and is presenting the boat as the new Elan 320. The hull remains unchanged, but the standard draught of a full 2.15 metres on the T-keel with lead bomb is new. On the other hand, the amount of ballast has been reduced. A keel of 1.90 metres was still the standard on the previous model, but this remains the short keel option on the new boat.
The most important change on deck: The new 320 will be equipped with double steering wheels from the shipyard. This means that the boat, which is only 9.25 metres long, is certainly the smallest performance cruiser that can offer this arrangement. However, it remains to be seen whether the special layout will work. In any case, tiller steering as on the previous 310 model is still available as an option. In this case, the buyer receives a price reduction of around 3500 euros on the standard price of 92,810 euros including VAT. Compared to the predecessor model, this represents a small price increase. Until recently, the Elan 310 was available for 86,860 euros.
The Elan 320 is also available in an "S" version. Not only is the hull built using the vacuum infusion process (Vail technology), but also the deck. The bulkheads and part of the interior are made from composite materials. This should save a total of six per cent in weight, or 220 kilograms. The S version of the new 320 is available for 101,140 euros, which is around 8300 euros extra.
What else is new: a trapezoidal hull window à la Elan 400 (YACHT 10/2013 test), foldable standing surfaces for the helmsman, a recessed traveller and a removable bridge deck as a stern end. The comfortable interior layout remains unchanged. However, there have been changes to the visual appearance. The interior is now finished in light-coloured oak and the floorboards will be a dark laminate. There are also numerous technical modifications: for example, the door to the foredeck will be larger, and there will be more and better usable storage space in the saloon.
Elan Yachts is currently working on the prototype of the boat. The first test runs are planned for the end of July.
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Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
