With an unusual concept, Elan Marine ventures close to the limits of what is
the limits of what is possible. The 450 is a design that should inspire regatta and cruising sailors alike
With the new Elan 450, the innovative Slovenian shipyard is presenting a boat that is unrivalled. The look alone sets it apart: an extra-wide stern and therefore a twin rudder - the 450 is slightly reminiscent of an open 60 racer.
However, the shipyard distances itself from the term regatta boat. Even if it doesn't look like it at first glance, the focus of this ship should be on cruising. Fast and sporty cruising, of course, that is the market orientation.
As there is unfortunately little wind in the YACHT test, the Elan 450 only gives a small taste of its capabilities for the time being. However, 10 knots of wind are enough to accelerate the boat properly. Designer Rob Humphreys has succeeded surprisingly well with the design of the double rudders. The boat can be steered very sensitively and is also surprisingly agile in manoeuvres.
The Elan 450 is available in different versions depending on requirements: With the Cruiser Pack for cruising-oriented sailors, the Performance Pack for sporty sailors and the Grand Prix Racing Pack for regatta sailors with carbon fibre masts.
Elan's pricing remains fair. The new 450 is well made, of impeccable quality and is already well equipped as standard. This means that it can also be orientated towards the high-priced competition. The base price of 273,688 euros is therefore very fairly calculated.
The detailed test of the new Elan 450 as well as all measured values are now available in the new YACHT 4/2008, on newsstands now.
Michael Good
Editor Test & Technology
