From sporty performance cruisers to comfortable deck saloon yachts, the spectrum in this exciting class for many sailors ranges from boats just under ten metres in length. Eight current models have now had to prove their performance during a large-scale test on the Baltic coast.
The Océanis 323, Hanse 315, First 31.7, Sun Odyssey 32i, Hallberg-Rassy 31, Sirius 32 DS, Elan 31 and Dufour 325 were all in attendance. What they all have in common is their focus on a specific clientele: rather small crews, mostly couples, who value not only seaworthiness, but also a certain level of quality of life on board.
A decisive factor in the purchase decision is therefore the basic design of the boat. Which shipyard gets the most out of the available space? Which boat has innovative details, offers intelligent layout options and where is the quality of workmanship right?
The first part of our test report therefore focusses on the interior. Detailed descriptions and numerous photos facilitate direct comparison and reveal the strengths and weaknesses of the yachts presented.
As usual, the most important technical dimensions and data, as well as all prices, are summarised in large overview tables.
You can read the results in the new issue of YACHT (issue 13/06, on newsstands from Wednesday).
Pascal Schürmann
Editor YACHT
