hanse yacht review

• BOAT OF THE YEAR
• Newsletters
• Sailboat Reviews
• Boating Safety
• Sailing Totem
• Charter Resources
• Destinations
• Galley Recipes
• Living Aboard
• Sails and Rigging
• Maintenance
• Best Marine Electronics & Technology

Hanse 415 Yacht Review

• By Mark Pillsbury
• Updated: May 22, 2013

Hoist a tad too much sail on a blustery morning, on a boat you’ve never sailed before, and things can go a couple of different ways. Fortunately for us—CW’s Boat of the Year judges and yours truly—as gusts ripped straight down the Severn River and kicked up whitecaps all across the bay off Annapolis, Maryland, the Hanse 415 yacht, to which we’d just been introduced, dug a rail into the chop and took off like a demon possessed. It was one spirited sail.

In fact, brief as it was (all told, we only had about 45 minutes of sailing once our motoring tests were completed), it was the sail I best remember from last fall’s week of a couple of dozen sea trials following the U.S. Sailboat Show. As each puff hit our full-battened main and closehauled self-tending jib, we’d heel a little more but track straight, as if we were on rails, the helm (with Jefa chain-link steering) remaining firmly under control all the while.

“It really performs beautifully under sail,” noted BOTY Judge Ed Sherman. “Even when overpowered, it’s like driving a big dinghy.”

The Hanse 415 yacht, drawn by Judel/Vrolijk & Co., with an interior by Hanse’s Water Vision, is the latest entry in the builder’s lineup of sailboats that are, by design, both exciting and simple to sail. Controls—a pair of single reef lines, halyards, and a main and a jib sheet—are led to winches set just forward of the two helm stations, where they’re easy to reach and kept tamed by rope clutches. But really, if you’re tacking to windward, there’s no reason to bother with the strings. Want to come about? Just turn the wheel and both the jib and the midboom-sheeted main will see to themselves. Off the wind, an asymmetric sail can be set using a dedicated bail on the single anchor roller. It’s a great setup for a shorthanded watch or the skipper whose crew prefers to enjoy the ride. If you routinely sail in lighter air or are looking to eke out a little more speed, a slightly overlapping 106-percent genoa is also an option.

Though a production sailboat through and through and intended to meet a price point, the 415 is available in a wide range of hull colors and interior finishes. The boat we sailed was a three-cabin/two-head model, though a two-cabin (with one or two heads, depending on your needs for locker space in the V-berth) is also available; in that configuration, you gain a large storage area in place of the starboard aft cabin.

In either layout, down below, the saloon and galley are at once stylish and traditional, with a large, U-shaped dining area to starboard (a portion of the seat’s base pulls out and has cushions to make a double berth or lounging area) and a settee opposite with a versatile, two-position nav station. The L-shaped galley comes with all the cooking and refrigeration kit you’d expect in a 41-foot cruising boat, and fiddles along the countertops are a plus for cooking in any sort of seaway. From on deck, the companionway hatch slides well forward, and the steps down are extended and angled for ease of access. Wide side decks and good handholds along the coachroof are appreciated when moving about under way. One small gripe topside: Outward-opening ports along the cabin roof can be real ankle biters, but then again, they probably wouldn’t be open when sailing.

Below the waterline, the hull is solid glass; above, Hanse uses balsa coring in both the topsides and deck. A layer of vinylester resin next to the gelcoat is added to prevent blistering. Stiff performance under sail comes, in part, thanks to the L-shaped cast-iron keel fastened with stainless-steel bolts. A deep T-keel is optional. The 415 is powered by a 38-horsepower Volvo and saildrive. The BOTY judges found the boat to be slightly underpowered, so anyone planning on a lot of motoring might want to consider the optional 55-horsepower engine.

That said, if there’s any breeze whatsoever, you’ll want to kill the motor, unfurl the jib, hoist up the main, and settle in on the leeward wheel for one heck of a good ride aboard this Hanse 415 yacht.

To see more photos of the Hanse 415 click here

• More: 2011+ , 41 - 50 ft , Coastal Cruising , hanse , monohull , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats
• More Sailboats

Sailboat Review: Tartan 455

Meet the Bali 5.8

Celebrating a Classic

New to the Fleet: Italia Yachts 12.98

Bitter End Expands Watersports Program

Miracle in a Bowl

Cole Brauer Completes the Global Solo Challenge

• Digital Edition
• Customer Service
• Privacy Policy
• Email Newsletters
• Cruising World
• Sailing World
• Salt Water Sportsman
• Sport Fishing
• Wakeboarding

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Pay My Bill
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter
• Give a Gift

How to Sell Your Boat

Cal 2-46: A Venerable Lapworth Design Brought Up to Date

Rhumb Lines: Show Highlights from Annapolis

Open Transom Pros and Cons

Leaping Into Lithium

The Importance of Sea State in Weather Planning

Do-it-yourself Electrical System Survey and Inspection

Install a Standalone Sounder Without Drilling

Rethinking MOB Prevention

Top-notch Wind Indicators

The Everlasting Multihull Trampoline

In Search of the Snag-free Clew

What’s Involved in Setting Up a Lithium Battery System?

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Breaking Point: What Can Go Wrong With Your Yanmar?

Mildew-resistant Caulks for Boats

Can We Trust Plastic Boat Parts?

Repairing Molded Plastics

Mailport: Marine plywood, fuel additives, through bolt options, winch handle holders

The Day Sailor’s First-Aid Kit

Choosing and Securing Seat Cushions

Cockpit Drains on Race Boats

Rhumb Lines: Livin’ the Wharf Rat Life

Safer Sailing: Add Leg Loops to Your Harness

Resurrecting Slippery Boat Shoes

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

The Ultimate Guide to Caring for Clear Plastic

• Sailboat Reviews

Hanse 400 Boat Review

Designed by german firm judel/vrolijk & co., this racer-cruiser offers good performance and is easy to sail..

The Hanse 400 is a cruising boat for those who love to sail, and a club racer for those who enjoy a summer cruise. Its construction quality and price point qualify it as a cost-effective alternative in the 40-footer marketplace. In comparison to mainstream production cruising boats, the Hanse 400 is an absolute performance standout, not only in its ability under sail, but in its ease of operation.  

                                                      ****

The Hanse 400 presents the image of a well-trained athlete—strong, capable, and legitimately deserving of its billing as a “crossover” sailboat. In keeping with Hanses performance-oriented design philosophy, the 400 has been exactingly engineered to deliver a blend of performance attributes and cruising comfort. The result is an easy-to-handle, spirited racer-cruiser that packs plenty of cabin space and amenities into its beamy hull.

Designer Judel/Vrolijk & Co. is a cutting-edge firm that opened its doors in 1978. With Americas Cup winner Alinghi , Admirals Cup victories, Volvo Ocean Race designs, and a pet project for the King of Spain on the roster—not to mention its mega-yacht design business—Judel/Vrolijks star has risen. Part of its success has been linked to the companys embracing modern computer-design technology, using both 2-D and 3-D CAD programs. Spending time 3-D modeling a new design keeps unwanted shop floor surprises to a minimum. Things like locker doors, engine room space, and table heights end up with the clearance that they need in order to function according to plan.

The team at Hanse conceived the interior design of the 400 and worked with Judel/Vrolijk designers to define a sailboat with comfortable accommodations and the sailing ability that Hanse production boats have become known for. At the heart of the success is a canoe body shape with a clean entry, full beam, and flat sections aft that make the boat look more like a racer than a cruiser. When the modest keel appendage is attached, the race-boat theme is greatly subdued, however, with 952 square feet of working sail area, this modern racer-cruiser plays well at both games.

The logic behind choosing an easy-to-sail performance cruiser makes perfect sense for many sailors. Considering the soaring price of diesel and the light winds that prevail along much of the U.S. coast during the summer sailing season, there is a distinct advantage to having a boat that can turn 6 to 8 knots of true wind speed into a fun sail.

The Hanse 400s wide beam, carried well aft, delivers plenty of initial stability, allowing the vessel to stand up to the heeling moment induced by its sizable sail plan. The ballast—iron keel and lead bulb—is listed as weighing 6,426 pounds. The low placement of lead also lowers the boats center of gravity (CG), increasing its secondary righting moment. Those looking to maximize stability can shave 1,000 pounds by ordering the epoxy-resin laminated hull along with the deep-draft (6 feet, 5 inches) configuration. This combination provides a positive-stability limit of over 120 degrees. The boat is certified to ISO Category A “Offshore” standard and built to Germanischer Lloyd GL Yacht Plus standards, giving the buyer confidence in the quality of construction and design.

A major factor in designing wide-transom boats is to keep the stern from submerging, which causes drag to increase. Many sailboats achieve this at anchor but once sailing to weather, the infamous transom gurgle reveals that the hull has dug a hole in the water and drag has dampened performance. The Hanse 400 leaves a nimble wake, and the slightly elevated transom stays clear of the surface even as the breeze increases. Its long waterline and flat run aft generate a minimal amount of wave making, another sure sign of an efficient hull shape.

One of the most noticeable deck features on the Hanse 400 is the sculpted deck plates that cover halyards, self-tacking jib sheet, topping lift, and other lines led aft. This arrangement keeps the coach roof clear and unencumbered. The self-tacking, 90-percent blade jib is easy to handle, and its single sheet means that theres no sheet swapping during a tack. The ability to set 952 square feet of working sail area and not have to deal with an overlapping genoa is a big plus for those who sail shorthanded. The 562-square-foot mainsail may seem daunting, but with lazy jacks or a Dutchman sail-flaking system, and appropriately run reefing lines, the mainsail handling routine becomes very user-friendly.

The deck, cockpit, and cabin house work together to provide an ergonomic sailing platform. Absent is the feeling that the deck configuration is a result of excess emphasis on accommodations crammed belowdecks. The Hanse we sailed had attractive teak side decks, but a nonskid gelcoat finish is also available. The nonskid option—which PS highly recommends—saves the buyer about $8,000, lessens maintenance, and has about twice the longevity of teak.

Accommodations

Hanse believes that one interior design doesn’t fit all, and consequently provides different cabin configurations. The 400 is divided into three cabin segments—fore cabin, saloon, and aft cabin—and there are mix-and-match alternatives for each area. For example, in the forward owners cabin, you can swap extra locker space for a second head and move the centerline double berth more to port. The main saloon can be set up with a dinette to starboard and a settee/sea berth to port, or an owner can eliminate the sea berth and opt for two built-in arm chairs and a small side table in the same location. The aft configuration allows for either small side-by-side cabins or a single cabin and a storage area.

The Hanse 400 is not a long-term liveaboard sailboat, but it is fine for summer cruises or participating in yacht club point-to-point races or cruises. The tight turn of the bilge and open layout leave less room for storage. The two-burner stove and modest tankage volume are in keeping with the theme of a racer-cruiser that wont be bogged down by too much gear and equipment. This doesn’t mean that a run to Bermuda or a fast trip to Hawaii are out of the question; in fact, this is a boat that would take such summer passagemaking in stride and get the crew there in a hurry.

The woodwork is computer-cut, finished, and nearly completely assembled prior to placement in the boat. Flat, smooth surfaces coated with spray-applied, matte-finish urethane offset the white gelcoat and Corian countertops, adding an open and spacious feel to the cabin. The L-shaped galley has all the basics—stove/oven, sink, and refrigerator—and is nicely finished, but counter space may be a little lacking for the seagoing gourmet. Again, this is in keeping with the boats lean-and-mean mission statement.

The cabin sole is a faux teak-and-holly plastic veneer thats visually appealing and quite durable. Theres a Euro minimalist design that balances form and function and eliminates wood trim and complex, costly joinery work. The engineers and designers seem to have collaborated on how to build an aesthetic yet cost-effective interior, and its offered it in either a dark mahogany or a light birch finish, both of which are appealing.

Performance

In comparison to mainstream production cruising boats, the Hanse 400 is an absolute performance standout, not only in its ability under sail, but in its ease of operation. On the boat we sailed, setting sail was simplified by the Dutchman flaking system, a set of control lines attached to an adjustable topping lift that guides the sail efficiently from its boom-stowed position to full hoist and back down again. The 390-square-foot furling working jib rolls up and unrolls effortlessly, and its self-tending nature makes tacking a breeze.

All it takes is a simple turn of the wheel to test how ruggedly a sailboat has been built, and whether or not an effective monocoque structure has been achieved. By tacking through the eye of a 15-knot breeze, the momentary flail of the mainsail causes some boats to shake like a wet terrier, and as they settle onto a new tack, all types of squeaks and groans punctuate the silence. The Hanse 400 neither squeaked nor groaned, and while heading into the wind with the large mainsail enduring a momentary flutter, the vessel showed no sign of telltale twisting or bending.

The semi-balanced spade rudder offers finger-tip steering thanks to a large wheel and the smooth, Jefa drag-link design steering system that nests just under the cockpit sole. This design allows for watertight integrity to be maintained between the upper and lower rudder-stock bearings, preventing water from seeping into the accommodations. The downside is the exposure to seawater that the drag-link system and autopilot drive must endure. These components are either well-sealed or made of corrosion-resistant metal, mitigating the effect of occasional dousing.

One of the big plusses is its sailplan. The tall mast, with a big mainsail and a small blade jib, delivers good all-around sailing ability without the need to wrestle a massive genoa on the foredeck. When the breeze goes from 12 to 18 knots, a reef is easily tucked in the mainsail and the inefficiency of a partially rolled up, bulky genoa is eliminated. The resulting wide wind range in which one headsail can be used is a plus, but the crew needs to make sure that they are well practiced in mainsail reefing. For those craving responsiveness in light air and ease of sail handling, theres a neat retractable stem head extension that serves as a tack for a code zero or asymmetric spinnaker, which can also be roller-deployed for convenience. Add well-planned sheet leads and a cockpit set up for efficient shorthanded sailing, and it becomes clear why the boat is so enjoyable to sail.

A 40-horsepower saildrive Yanmar diesel is neatly tucked in a box beneath the

companionway steps. With the assistance of a couple of gas cylinders, the ladder, and sound-dampened engine box easily lift out of the way. This lift-the-hood look at the engine affords great access to key components, not always the case aboard sailboats in this size range. The three-cylinder diesel runs smoothly, and the saildrive eliminates all shaft rumble noise. The trade-off is the need to pay close attention to zincs, and to take care to avoid introducing stray current or galvanic corrosion when installing any electrical equipment.

The Hanse 400 is a cruising boat for those who love to sail, and a club racer for those who enjoy a summer cruise. Its construction quality and price point qualify it as a cost-effective alternative in the 40-footer marketplace. The vessel has the right set of attributes for the light-air conditions of the bays and sounds of the Northeast, Southern California, and Gulf Coast, but will feel right at home on the more blustery bodies of water such as San Francisco Bay. In short, this is a capable performer that offers a lot of bang for the buck.

• Critic’s Corner: Hanse 400
• Interior Notes: Hanse 400
• Hanse 400 Construction Details
• Hanse 400 in Context

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

Island Packet 370: What You Should Know | Boat Review

How To Make Starlink Better On Your Boat | Interview

Catalina 380: What You Should Know | Boat Review

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

Hanse 575 Yacht Review – Solid As a Rock!

For those of us who love to sail as often as possible, the Adriatic Sea affords you plenty of opportunities to do so, but the quality of your experience will largely be determined by the boat you choose.

I recently took to the waters of the Adriatic out from Porto San Rocco in Muggia, Italy, for a test sail on one of the most remarkable boats I have been on in recent memory–the Hanse 575.

Commonly billed as a stress-free distance cruiser that can offer “home-away-from-home” comfort for couples and families, the Hanse 575 is quite large both in appearance and accommodations.

While this Hanse 575 yacht review will obviously relay my personal observations, it is highly doubtful that any person who spends time aboard this very capable cruiser will walk away with anything other than a positive experience.

Table of Contents

Accommodations

The Hanse 575 model that I test sailed with a local broker featured a three-cabin/three-head layout, with the master cabin lying forward.

One of the first things I took note of was the strikingly spacious master cabin; it features a centerline double berth, giving you plenty of “elbow room” for making up the bed or climbing in/out of it without being a nuisance to your mate.

The head and shower each have their own compartments to port and starboard, and I also noticed a generous amount of hanging and locker space forward, enabling occupants to store lots of clothes for sailing and living aboard the vessel on a lengthy charter.

With a stylish, modern fit and finish, generous space, and comfortable furniture, the Hanse 575 is a boat that a couple or a family of four could easily live aboard and cruise the waters in comfort and style.

The interior is open and roomy, featuring a loft-like design with a portside center-ship galley, a forward-facing navigation desk, and a spacious settee area that features a retractable table (which can be easily converted to a king-size berth).

I was impressed with the well-thought-out design of the saloon, which features a galley to port that runs the full length of the space, along with a generously sized dinette to starboard.

The galley also features a large refrigerator and freezer, as well as allotted space for a dishwasher. The all-important wine cooler (one of my personal favorite features) is neatly tucked away in the furniture aft right beside the chart table.

The intuitive design of the accommodations for the Hanse 575 makes it a prime choice when it comes to selecting a worthy boat for your next charter.

When I first saw the Hanse 575 at the marina, I was immediately struck by its distinctive look, impressive size, and voluminous presence.

Designed by the renowned studio Judel/Vrolijk, this German cruiser offers groundbreaking aesthetics, comfortable deck layouts, and fantastic open sightlines from practically anywhere aboard the boat.

In fact, when I looked straight ahead while standing at the aft end of the cockpit, I could have sworn that I was standing aboard a 70-footer.

The Hanse 575 has an expansive teak decking layout with an obvious emphasis on comfort and enjoying the view.

I took note of the exceptionally roomy cockpit, as well as the widely spaced twin composite wheels that can easily facilitate steering from either the high or low side.

The bow and stern are virtually plumb, and the topsides of the vessel are notably high off the water, which makes for generous headroom on the inside.

The design mavens at the Judel/Vrolijk studio spared no detail in terms of incorporating aesthetically pleasing features, such as flush deck hatches to “clean up” the visual appeal of the deck and eliminating any sharp edges on the hull to afford a sleek look.

In addition, the boat features a standard two-spreader Sparcraft aluminum rigging system (keel-stepped) with a self-tacking jib.

True to its Euro-designed pedigree, the Hanse 575 is intended to be sailed flat. The hull is quite quick and slippery and can cover significant ground even in choppy waters, which on this particular day, we had plenty of to navigate.

The semi-balanced, high-aspect rudder definitely makes its presence felt, as it is able to grab the water and turn the boat with impressive facility.

The mechanical steering system carries a nice feel, affording precise movement. The designers of the 575 have kept things simple by equipping the vessel with a traditional mainsail (including lazy jacks as well as a stack pack).

During our outing, I took note of the fact that the helm was keenly balanced, and the feel was remarkably precise.

The Hanse 575 offers a pleasant, stress-free, and non-intimidating sailing experience for couples or families who want to charter this vessel without a crew, but should you choose to hire a crew for your charter, you can enjoy the services of a cook, hostess, and skipper.

The Hanse 545 vs. the 575

Besides being a more recent model than the Hanse 545 (they were produced about 3 years apart), the Hanse 575 has nearly a full meter’s worth of extra LOA, as well as a slightly longer hull length.

The sail area of the Hanse 575 comes in at a little over 160 square meters, affording nearly 4 more square meters of space than the 545.

In addition, the 575 is equipped with 5 standard cabins compared to only 3 for the 545, although both boats feature 2 standard heads.

Why Sail the HAnse 575

* Dry and comfortable ride * Remarkable control and an excellent feel * Great tender garage * Expansive and well-laid-out teak decks

In Conclusion

If I could relay some of the main takeaways from my experience aboard the 575, it would be the following:

The build quality of this vessel is rock-solid, its deck layout is spacious and clean, and its performance-oriented sailing characteristics and features make it an ideal vessel for practically any cruising adventure you may have in mind.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy some coastal cruising with family and friends or embark on a transoceanic cruising rally, the Hanse 575 is a very capable vessel that can suit your needs.

When creating your sailing charter, keep the Hanse 575 in mind as a top choice for exploring your next destination.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hanse
• Length overall: 5.23 m
• Length waterline: 4.62 m
• Beam: 1.57 m
• Draft: 0.86 m
• Engine Volvo Penta: D3
• Fuel: Diesel
• Fuel capacity: 520L
• Cabins: 3 to 6
• Berths: 6 to 10

Have you sailed the Hanse 575? If so, share your experience in the comment below.

Daniella has been passionate about travel, the sea, and nature for many years. As a child, she frequently traveled throughout the Mediterranean and continued with her journeys throughout her adult life.

Her experiences have created the desire within her to share her love for traveling with other passionate and adventurers who want to discover beautiful horizons and new cultures.

8 thoughts on “Hanse 575 Yacht Review – Solid As a Rock!”

Hello, your article comes at the right time, when in North America is a season, which brings back thoughts how summer good can be. Your described boat can be a great fit for family or bunch of friends, who would like to spent time together or celebrate a party. I wonder how about drinking on the boat? Are there some restrictions about it or it is left to own responsibility? Anyway, it seems tempting and I dream now about traveling somewhere where is nice and warm. Being by the sea it would be a plus. Your mentioned Judel and Vrolijk&Co; are most successful yacht designers. It is great that HANSE yachts have an Easy Sailing Concept, which lets to sail and ever reef from the helm. It is something, it is not? Thanks for great review, all the best, happy writing, Nemira.

Nice to see you again on my website. I am glad you like my article Nemira:)

You can drink whatever you like, there are no restrictions at all. It is of course forbidden to be under the influence of intoxicating while sailing, such laws applies also when driving a car. So, If you make a party and drink alcohol, I would suggest you drop anchor before, if you know what I mean:)

Yes, Judel & Vrolijk & Co as you said are the most popular yacht designers and it’s easy to confirm it by navigating the Hanse 575!

I truly appreciate your comment and wish you all the best!

Wow! The Hanse 575 yacht is exquisite. It looks like a luxury sailing experience. If it is chartered for a week, can it anchor out or must it overnight in marinas? Furthermore, can its systems sustain a group of two to four “on the hook” for a week? Lastly, are pets allowed? Thanks. Alyssa

The Hanse 575 comes without a crew, so you are the one who decide where to anchor and where to sail:) If you want to drop anchor just check if the place allows you to do so and if it’s safe enough. I personally prefer to stay at a marina because you can profit from all the amenities that you need and good services.

The Hanse is a spacious yacht and she can accommodate 10 to twelve passengers.

Not every owner of the boat will permit the charterer to bring a pet on board, so, you’ll have to check further with the broker company of your choice.

I hope it helped:)

Thank you very much for the comment and if you need any help, please don’t hesitate to contact me, I’ ll be more than happy to assist you.

Have a wonderful day!

You certainly know what to write about when it comes to yachts. My dad has his own boat, the tin tonic. It may not be a yacht, but we do use it to cruise the potomac river. If I had enough money to get this yacht, I totally would. Nice!

That’s great that your dad owns a boat:) I am sure you enjoy it!

Thank you for the comment and wish you a wonderful day!

Beautiful site. You covered every topic and did it very well. Well written and presented very well. I especially liked your post about what to cook while sailing. Can’t find anything negative about this site. Maybe your paragraphs could be smaller. I did not see very many links to products. Much success in 2016. Deanna

Thank you for the comment, I really appreciate:)

Oh yes, what to cook on a boat, I love these subjects as I think it will definitely help sailors to cook onboard.

I don’t sell products for the moment except helping people to find the right boat for charter.

Thank you for passing by and for your suggestion, I will take into consideration:)

Wish you a wonderful year 2016!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Hanse 575 review: Impressive home comforts – from the archive

• Toby Hodges
• March 3, 2021

With her huge volume and comfortable accommodation, the Hanse 575 offers impressive home-from-home comfort. But Toby Hodges wondered how her high freeboard would affect her sailing performance.

Product Overview

Manufacturer:, price as reviewed:.

When I went aboard the new Hanse 575 at the Southampton Boat Show, there was a couple in their mid-40s sitting in the saloon looking comfortably at home discussing the optional gadgets. “How does the flatscreen TV lift up?” the man asked. “How big is it? 46in? That’s impressive!” He nodded as if that had just swung his decision to place a deposit.

This voluminous new German cruiser is aimed at just such couples, who want comfortable and easy sailing. But, having needed steps that Nelson would be proud of on the plinth of his statue just to get aboard, I was more concerned about the height.

So high is this yacht inside that – I kid you not – there are step ladders provided in the aft cabins to reach the hatches!

There’s no doubt that such high freeboard creates luxurious space below, hence it feels as if your money is going further. It adds more light and ventilation, and makes the boat potentially drier to sail.

In Hanse’s case, it also helps make the coachroof appear low and sleek, and, exclusively for the Hanse 575, her freeboard height creates room for a jet tender to stow in the transom.

Photo: c/o Hanse Yachts

However, height can be imposing. For a production boat designed to be easily sailed by couples and families, the Hanse 575 looks alarmingly large on the dock.

I therefore left the boat show confused – is this a floating apartment to house an array of flashy mod-cons, the electronic comforts that fill our homes, or is it actually, as advertised, a stress-free distance cruiser for couples? Could it be both? The only way to find out was to take her sailing.

How does the Hanse 575 sail?

As we left the River Hamble at eight knots under engine at 2,000 rpm into 20 knots true, we couldn’t even politely try to ignore the loud hissing noise from under the companionway. It was the turbo of the Volvo D3 amplified above the wind like a cockpit concerto.

This being the first boat, Hanse apparently hadn’t allowed enough space for foam insulation (no kidding!). “This is why we do the first boat, and have already logged 800nm on her, to implement such changes,” said delivery skipper and test pilot Steffen Kluike with incontrovertible logic.

Article continues below…

Hanse 445 test

First look videos from on board Hanse 588 and Hanse 675

The Düsseldorf Boat Show in January presented the opportunity to have a good look over the latest and largest new…

You can probably tell by now that I was a little underwhelmed with the Hanse 575 before taking her sailing. I mean, how can this vast vessel possibly be aimed at couples? As if climbing aboard is not enough of an issue, manoeuvring out of the marina in a breeze tests the heart rate.

The optional thruster or two would certainly be required, as she was as stubborn as a mule to turn into the wind.

However, once out in the salty elements, the Hanse 575 proved she’s not just about volume and gimmicks. I was glad there were only two of us aboard, as it proved to me she is actually a very capable boat and indeed manageable by a couple.

Everything, including halyards, is led aft to a winch beside the wheels, so sails can be set and trimmed single-handedly.

We were well overpressed at times on our test day. Photo: Lester McCarthy

When the leeward gunwale goes under on a yacht with this kind of freeboard, you know you’re overpressed, so with Force 7 gusts across the deck, we put in a reef to head upwind in the western Solent against the tide.

Unfortunately, the German mainsheet pulled out through the coachroof tube from one side, which, with just two winches, could certainly have caused a problem in this breeze. However, although it meant having both sheets on one winch, the upside is that it proved the redundancy of the German twin sheet system.

Going upwind at 30°-35° apparent (40°-45° true) we made a steady 8-8.5 knots, tacking through 90°.

I was very impressed with the Jefa linkage, which felt particularly pleasant on optional carbon wheels. This chain-to-wire system felt direct, and communicated the Hanse 575’s 20 tonnes of displacement and tall rig power well.

She obeyed the helm quickly, and steering from far aft proved a joy, especially off the breeze where it was possible to play the small waves.

The 575 feels like a stiff boat. Despite carrying plenty of sail, including a large main, she is well-balanced by both displacement and ballast in a performance T-keel as standard, hence she stood up well to the wind and maintained good average speeds.

She is built in sandwich with a balsa core and vinylester resin for lightness and strength, and there’s enough volume and depth to her forward sections to stop her slamming in a short chop.

Her high sides obviously help to keep the decks dry, but her low, flat cockpit does mean that helmsman and crew feel exposed to the elements.

Broad-reaching at 135°-150° apparent against the ebb, we rarely made less than double figures and it was easy to coax her onto waves and play them up to 11 knots. This is where the 575’s 50ft of waterline comes in, making her an efficient passagemaker.

Rather than gybe this powerful boat, we employed a benefit of the self-tacking jib – the ‘handbrake turn’ as I like to call it – spinning her quickly into a tack. She would pirouette safely through 270° without needing to touch a sheet.

A 105 per cent genoa is offered as an alternative to the self-tacking jib if preferred.

Comfort at the helm is good, especially when seated outboard with uninterrupted views over the low coachroof. Plotter and instruments are to hand. Meanwhile, crew can relax in a huge cockpit devoid of sailing hardware and sheets.

Indeed, it’s the perfect place to sit and wonder quite why the boom is so high. With 185cm from deck to boom it makes it dangerous even to unzip the stackpack. And yet the sprayhood was annoyingly level with my chin.

Still, when at anchor in the Med with the family relaxing on the superb cockpit sunbed, keeping that pesky aluminium boom out of harm’s reach will be a benefit, I’m sure.

What is the Hanse 575 like below?

I’ve never known the word ‘high’ to crop up so many times in my notes. The aft cabins are 235cm from sole to deckhead and to the hatches in the saloon it is 227cm, so you can’t rely on the handholds in the headlining to move about safely.

However, all surfaces are fiddled to help safe thoroughfare when heeled. Suffice it to say you feel a bit dwarfed below decks.

Key features are the shallow companionway and a double set of flush hatches above the saloon, which give ample light.

The master cabin offers a huge island berth and plenty of light, thanks to those curved hatches in the coachroof, plus the hull windows. Photo: Lester McCarthy

In our three-cabin layout, having three en-suite heads certainly gave an aura of luxury. Six different layouts are offered – the standard has a Pullman cabin instead of the second aft heads and options forward include twin double cabins and a crew cabin.

Time and thought has gone into lining up the grain across the panels and, although the red-stained mahogany veneer would not be my choice, Hanse are masters at catering for different tastes, offering a plethora of options.

Although not the case on our boat, all the exposed end grain will be sealed on future boats, and personally I would ask for rubber dampeners to be put on soleboards, as she’s not a peaceful boat – soles creak, button latches reverberate through lockers and doors slam.

However, with all the space on offer, I was impressed with the array of optional luxury extras – which would no doubt have delighted the couple I saw at the boat show – such as white and red night lighting throughout, LEDs on dimmers, electric toilets, forced aircon, dual Oceanair blinds, dishwasher, washing machine, wine cooler and, of course, the flatscreen TV and docking system.

Situated conveniently at the foot of the companionway, this large desk area is certainly useful for the conscientious navigator, and will also double admirably as an office. Photo: Lester McCarthy

The custom-made cambered Lewmar hatches were a nice touch, bringing extra light and views to the forward and aft cabins. A bilge pump at the mast base and tanks sited low near the centreline are neat ideas.

There is good access to the engine and genset each side, but this simply reveals how inadequate the insulation is – I’d bake a fish using more foil than that! The companionway steps lift for primary access, but expose sharp corners to the aluminium supports, which would be nasty to bang your head on.

Meanwhile, all through the saloon and galley above the raised lockers is an impractically shallow fiddled shelf, where things will simply collect dust or get lost.

This review first appeared in the January 2013 issue of Yachting World.

If you enjoyed this….

Yachting World is the world’s leading magazine for bluewater cruisers and offshore sailors. Every month we have inspirational adventures and practical features to help you realise your sailing dreams. Build your knowledge with a subscription delivered to your door. See our latest offers and save at least 30% off the cover price.

I wouldn’t for a minute think to question the hull lines from such an experienced design office as Judel/Vrolijk, but my issue with this boat remains its hull height. At the dock freeboard is 110cm at the stern and 150cm at the bow, and when you can’t reach the hatches inside the accommodation, you have to question the practicality. Now, if you’re happy jumping down onto the dock from that height, scrambling up the mast to reach the boom and using ladders to open hatches, then there are many obvious advantages. The Hanse 575 has a tremendous feeling of space and is a fast, dry and pleasurable boat to sail short-handed. There is a phonebook-sized list of mod-con options to dazzle guests, including the pièce de resistance, a jet RIB – a real asset in Mediterranean anchorages, where I’m sure this boat will come into her own. When I asked my host, Steffen Kluike, if she was a plausible boat for cruising couples, he replied: “Yes, but I see it more of a Med home – it’s cheaper than a second home/apartment/office and you can move it around.” I think, for a boat that will probably cost £400,000 with taxes and options, that is a realistic proposition. She is an admirable sailing boat and will provide an enjoyable, quick ride. I don’t think 575 owners will thrash these boats over the oceans, but they will have a voluminous and comfortable floating home.

Hanse 315: Yacht Review

The hot new entry-level yacht with the lot from the big german yard.

The German manufacturer Hanse is doing an excellent job with its latest Hanse 315. This new sail-cruiser has been swamped with praise since its launch last year. That's because she is a 'proper yacht' that can sail offshore yet is reasonably priced.

The era when small production yachts like Hood 23s and Endeavour 26s got a generation of Aussies into yacht cruising has long gone. Today's entry-level yacht is 30 foot or bigger, as boat buyers expect more room and comfort, which also means less buyers as the starting price is higher.

This situation is quite a dilemma for the yachting industry, which naturally wants coming generations of sailors to jump aboard. But there are some manufacturers who are trying to make the entry point more affordable.

The German manufacturer Hanse is doing an excellent job with its latest Hanse 315, a 'proper yacht' that can sail offshore yet is reasonably priced.

PRICE AND EQUIPMENT - Locally, this well-equipped yacht retails from a base-price of just $175,000. With a few important extras like a sun-bimini and wind instruments, the Hanse 315 retails around the $200,000 mark. This is still very good value today for a yacht around the 31-foot mark.

Hanse has been one of the most successful international yacht builders for the past decade and is undoubtedly trying to put the wind back into the sails and sales of entry-level market with this new yacht package.

The local dealer Windcraft had a clever and transparent Hanse 315 'New Sailor' package that included servicing, berthing, insurance, lessons, options and the works for $230k sail away.

LAYOUT AND ACCOMMODATION - A surprisingly roomy twin-cabin yacht The cockpit is mounted high but provides comfortable seating thanks to the raised coamings and a sloped cabin bulkhead. There's a big stowage locker under the portside seat with a proper floor and all items including swim ladder and fenders all neatly stowed.

Going below is made easy by a wide hatchway and steps that aren't too steep. Below, there's a surprisingly roomy saloon with full headroom (though not in the forward cabin) and a nice blend of timber and moulded GRP surfaces.

There is a choice of timber veneers but I like the standard mahogany (pictured), with optional ash inlaid flooring.

There is a large head/bathroom off to the portside with a shower, washbasin and WC. This can also double as a wet weather locker too. Meanwhile, to starboard is a reasonable-sized galley incorporating a gas-compliant two-burner stove/oven. The L-shaped galley provides a deep sink/water tap and top-opening fridge with good headroom thanks to the recessed floor.

The main saloon is a step up from the galley and provides two settee lounge berths and a fixed centre table with folding leafs. The table flaps snap into place with a clever folding mechanism. There's also stowage shelves outboard of the backrests and a wine bottle stowage locker within the table support.

Up for'ard you have a choice of either an open double berth, or in the case of our test boat an enclosed cabin with door and a neat three-quarter size double berth. The latter can expand into a full double berth when the door is closed. There is a seat on portside that folds into part of the berth, while another panel slides out from starboard to complete the in-fill.

Another double berth cabin is located aft of the galley. It provides a fixed athwartships berth and has a quite sizeable hanging locker. With a cockpit opening port it seems like the natural choice for the skipper, though I wonder if it's as cool in hot weather as the for'ard cabin.

DESIGN, HULL AND ENGINEERING - A new-breed Hanse yacht on a smaller scale With a plumb bow and wide, flat stern under a tall rig, the Hanse 315 is very much one of the new breed cruiser/racers just smaller!

She comes from the same famous German design team of Judel/Vrolijk who do the bigger Hanse models and are also designers of top offshore race boats like TP52s, etc.

This pedigree is evident in the Hanse 315s good sailing qualities. So yes, doing the local twilight yacht races are definitely on the agenda!

The Hanse 315 is no lightweight at 4700kg displacement yet her race-bred lines ensure she has a good turn of speed. This is partly due to the long waterline and powerful wide beam (3.35m) carried right to the transom.

She also has the latest L-shaped keel and deep, spade rudder for low water drag. However, the real secret to her speed is the noticeable Vee in the rear sections of the hull. This tapering of the waterline helps to reduce hydrodynamic drag over a wide range of speeds and helps her go faster.

Hull construction features foam-cored fibreglass above the waterline and solid lamination below. Decks are balsa-cored and feature a moulded anchor locker for'ard designed to take an optional electric anchor winch. ON THE WATER - The Hanse 315 is no sail-caravan and gets along She has the contemporary styling of the latest cruiser-racers and looks nice from all angles. There's a low trunk cabin over wide decks and a broad, open transom that allows easy access aboard via a folding stern landing platform.

A big surprise is the twin steering wheels in the cockpit. Normally you wouldn't see this in a smaller yacht but Hanse has made this work so you get good steering control plus easy access through from the open transom. The tiller is standard, however, I believe the twin, leather-bound wheels are the way to go.

Sail power comes from a tall, fractional rig that stands 47-feet above the waterline and is supported by twin swept-back spreaders with chainplates mounted right on the gunwale. The racing pedigree is very evident in details like this.

Headsails are all non-overlapping and as standard you get a Elvstrom self-tacking jib which is trimmed via one of the two cabin Lewmar 40ST winch.

The sail comes with a Selden jib furler and vertical battens so it’s really easy to handle.

The big 29sq m mainsail is an Elvstrom fully-battened type which is easy to raise and lower thanks to an optional lazy-bag/lazy jack stowage system.

As we motored out onto a sun-baked Pittwater. I was glad of the optional bimini awning over the helm position. This sits behind the backstay with provision for an extension awning for'ard so the whole cockpit can be covered when not using the mainsail.

With furling gear it took us less than a minute to be sailing along in a fresh north east breeze. With two of us aboard I didn't have to do much other than steer as Ric Hawkins did all the trimming.

As the photos show the test boat has optional teak seat decking around the cockpit which looks great. However, I would like some cockpit cushions for a longer day on the water. Maybe you could add this later yourself.

With the breeze about 8-14 knots we were averaging 6 knots, or better upwind, which really is impressive for a 31-footer. Helping us squeeze the best speed out of the boat was a B&G Triton wind instrument display within the companionway hatch console. There is also repeater displays at both helm stations so the skipper is spoilt for choice. Or put it another way, less excuse not to win!

The self-tacker impressed me especially as the breeze freshened. It cuts out the hassle of winching when you tack. That said, in light wind races, or passages the optional full-size headsail will be worthwhile having even if it means manual sheeting on each tack.

Easing into a beam reach we were doing 7 knots plus at times. The self-tacker headsail doesn't like square running so we tacked downwind doing around 5.5-6 knots. This worked out pretty well and we got down the bay pretty quickly by working the wind shifts to our advantage.

The standard Hanse deck package is generous and includes two extra Lewmar 40STs aft for the mainsail, or operating sail controls from the helm when solo sailing. You also get an adjustable backstay, mainsail traveller with control lines, Selden vang, barber haulers and Selden mast/boom. We also had the optional Dyneema jib and mainsail halyards than ensure less stretch.

We had the upgrade 18hp diesel which zipped us along at 7 knots so I would expect the standard 12hp diesel would a bit slower but acceptable for most inshore boating. However, whatever engine package you chose please get the optional folding propeller, otherwise sailing performance will be compromised.

VERDICT - A great downsizing option as well as first serious yacht It's a pleasure to find a yacht this size so nicely designed and having virtually all the key cruising features. I'm not surprised the first wave of local buyers has been yachties down-sizing from bigger yachts. No doubt they're seeking a yacht that's easy to handle with less crew and cheaper to marina berth.

Hopefully there's going to be the younger generation buying into the Hanse 315 as well, because she's a great starting point for yacht ownership and easy on family budgets.

LIKE - Good all round sailing performance - Practical interior for overnight cruising - Twin wheel steering and easy transom access

NOT SO MUCH - Headroom a bit cramped in for'ard cabin - Folding propeller being an extra - Stove needs a protective crash bar

Specifications: Hanse 315 Price From: $175,000 Price as Rested  $238,435 LOA: 9.62m LWL: 8.70m Beam: 3.35m Displacement: 4.7 tonnes Ballast: 1.5 tonnes Mainsail Area: 29.5sq m Self-tack Jib: 17.5sq m Auxiliary: 12hp diesel Fuel Tankage: 100lt Water Tankage: 230lt

Supplied by: Team Windcraft Bayview Anchorage Bayview NSW Phone (02) 9979 1709 See Windcraft

Read the latest Boatsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the Boatsales Network's mobile site . Or download the App for smartphone and tablet.

Stay up to date

Become a boatsales member and get the latest news, reviews and advice straight to your inbox.

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

• Katy Stickland
• January 26, 2018

Having a light, bright interior transforms the feel of a boat, but she needs to sail well too. Graham Snook goes to see what the Hanse 388 is really like

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

See Yachting Monthly December 2017 for the full test

Boat shows are great for comparing boats, find a couple you like, walk off one and onto the next, and you get a real feel for the differences between them.

There are a lot of ways to ‘sell’ boats, such as adding extra lamps, light upholstery and bright cushions. Surprisingly, the Hanse 388 had none of these when she was exhibited at the 2017 Southampton Boat Show and yet she still seemed light compared to many other boats of her class.

Of course, optional pale-coloured French oak interior, and white panels helped but her charcoal grey saloon cushions didn’t. It must have been the 19 windows in the deck then! While she might sound like a greenhouse, she sails like a yacht, and a good one too.

Performance

Although it was October, it was still a lovely day to be out on the Solent. We had the full range of a Force 4 between 10-17 knots.

She is quite a stiff boat to sail and was able to carry full sail on the wind to over 18 knots. If we had more wind, carrying full sail might be pushing our luck, however, even hard-pressed in the gusts she failed to lose grip and was still manoeuvrable while well heeled.

Nothing during the test fazed her, even heading into the wake of passing ferries was uneventful. Once the sails are set, there is little more for the crew to do as the helm has all sail controls within their reach.

Should the crew wish to get involved, there is just enough room to access the winches forward of the wheel. Under engine, this boat had a 2-bladed fixed propeller and at 2,500 rpm she made 6 knots, although down below was a little loud.

At the helm

Should you relinquish one of the two wheels, you may find it hard to get the helm back again – such is the feeling through the Jefa steering; it was delightful.

Finger-light and responsive, with so little friction, it just seemed right. I wish steering systems like this were the rule, rather than the exception.

Under the slightly raised helm seats outboard are deep, handy rope bins, like the 385, however aft, rather than fixed transom lockers there are now flip up seats above lazarette lockers.

Sadly the liferaft locker that opened out on the transom (to port) has gone, without a suitable replacement being offered. Just forward of each of the two helm positions are Lewmar 40ST winches that take all the lines from the mast, including mainsail and jib sheets.

It makes it a bit tricky to raise the mainsail because to get a decent heave on the halyard the crew has to be facing aft – as can’t see what they are pulling – or, if left to the helm, they have the wheel, throttle control, sheets and halyard to contend with, by the end of hoisting the mainsail the latter two had covered the former two.

Continues below…

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 440

It's not often a mainstream builder will step out of its comfort zone, but Jeanneau's new Sun Odyssey 440 is…

Hylas 46 review

What are the hallmarks of a good round-the-world boat? To find out, Chris Beeson steps aboard one that has spent…

RM 970 review

How many luxuries would you be willing to give up for a cracking sailing boat? Graham Snook tests the RM…

What’s she like to sail?

The 388 was a lovely boat to sail, with a feel on the helm usually reserved for more expensive yachts. The Jefa steering was light and responsive with excellent feedback.

There was a nice weight to the helm and nothing I could to do during the test would make her lose control or misbehave; she remained composed and in control, whether she was hard on the wind or thrown into a fast tack.

Both the self-tacking jib and the mainsail can be controlled from around the wheels; the mainsheet on both sides, the jib to starboard, the crew can help the helm, but the winch position doesn’t offer the most ergonomic position to winch from.

Once the sails are set the crew can sit back and relax; the helm has all controls at their fingertips with all lines being brought aft to either helm.

Would she suit you and your crew?

If you judge her against other 38 foot boats you may be a little disappointed as her hull length is only 36 feet.

However, compare boats of a similar size and you’ll have a lot to like. I’m not wholly convinced that twin aft cabins at the expense of deck storage space is good on a cruising yacht of this size – I was struggling to think of somewhere to store a dinghy for the crew it will be required to transport – even if the liferaft was stored on deck.

I can only report on the boat I test; a shame because with better deck stowage she could have easily been a five-star boat.

If you want twin aft-cabins buy a bigger boat.

However, with the larger galley and deep deck locker stowage that the single aft cabin layout provides she’s one of the best boats in her class.

The 388 makes sailing easy. If you’re the type of sailor who likes to tweak she may not fulfil your needs unless you opt for some extras, but if you’re after a boat that is easy to sail and delightful on the helm then few other yachts can compete.

Facts and Figures:

Price £210,930 Inc VAT LOA 11.4m (37ft 5in) LWL 10.40m (34ft 1in) Beam 3.90m (12ft 12in) Draught 2.06m (6ft 9in) Displacement 8,270kg (18,232 lb) Ballast 2,380kg (5,247 lb) Ballast ratio 28.8% Sail area 72m2 (775sq ft) SA/D ratio 17.9 Diesel 160 litres (35 gal) Water 295 litres (64 gal) Engine 30hp Transmission Saildrive RCD category A Designer Judel/Vrolijk / HanseYachts Design Builder Hanse Yachts UK Agent Inspiration Marine Group Tel 02380 457008 Website www.hanseyachts.co.uk