Modern, comfortable, configured for owners: The Océanis 43, the Dufour 425 Grand'Large and the Hanse 430 are aimed at the same target group and pursue similar goals. However, the paths taken by the shipyards are nuanced and different.
Bénéteau favours rounded shapes, Dufour timeless, Hanse dynamic. There are also differences in the rig geometry: while the two French shipyards favour shorter rigs with larger overlapping headsails, Hanse continues to rely on the concept of the self-tacking jib, longer mast and generous mainsail. There are also big differences in the interiors. Hanse looks modern and clear, the two French yachts more traditional, but also with their own flavour.
YACHT was the first magazine in the world to test the three yachts, which were launched almost simultaneously, as prototypes, albeit not in direct comparison with each other in one place. Nevertheless, the concepts, layouts, dimensions, prices and technology are better explained side by side than individually. The comparison is therefore also a showcase for the shipyards: France versus Germany or even industry giant Bénéteau versus its two up-and-coming successors.
Now in the new YACHT, Issue 6 - on newsstands from 7 March
Fridtjof Gunkel
Deputy Chief Editor YACHT
