hanse 40 sailboat

Yachting Monthly

• Digital edition

Hanse 400: popular modern performance cruiser

• Duncan Kent
• July 27, 2021

Duncan Kent takes the Hanse 400 for a sail and discovers that this popular modern performance cruiser is quick and powerful but easy to handle

A tall mast and generous sail area make the Hanse 400 quick and powerful. Credit: David Harding

Product Overview

Manufacturer:.

Voted European Boat of 2006, the J & J-designed, Hanse 400 still has all the attributes of a modern performance cruiser.

Founded in 1993, Hanse became Germany’s second largest production sailing yacht builder after extending its Greifswald site in 2005, and now produces 750 yachts annually including the Moody, Dehler and Privilege brands.

Since 1999 all Hanses have been designed by Judel and Vrolijk, a renowned team of performance yacht designers with America’s Cup heritage.

Hanse yachts aren’t just modern flyers, they have all the comforts needed for extended cruising as well.

Plenty of galley space with lockers and a top-loading fridge. Credit: Duncan Kent

The look of the 400’s interior isn’t particularly to my liking, with its sharp edges and unusual design statements, such as pea-green Plexiglass panels, but you can’t fault the layout’s flexibility and the intelligently thought-out key areas such as the well-appointed galley and heads.

Where the Hanse 400 scores over other more conservative performance cruisers is in the sailing stakes.

With dinghy-like performance, she’s just so easy to drive that you positively long to go out sailing alone, just to prove you can.

I love the idea that a 40ft yacht can be sailed quite safely single-handed – it gives you a fantastic confidence boost, meaning you’re more likely to take her out and sail her every chance you get.

Design & constructions of the Hanse 400

The Hanse 400 is sleek-looking with plumb ends, low freeboard and a long waterline.

With shallow underwater sections and a broad beam, they were designed to be quick and easily handled, and strong enough to cope with rough conditions offshore.

The hull is reinforced using a rigid floor framework and laminated foam stringers, while weight is minimised by incorporating a balsa core above the waterline.

For a little more money, the Hanse 400 was also offered in epoxy (400e), which not only reduced its displacement over the polyester/vinylester model by being a thinner layup and having foam sandwich below the waterline, but also increased its impact strength and flexibility, and virtually eliminated any risk of osmosis.

The Hanse 400 is unashamedly modern.

The high-gloss finished furniture is all a bit square and slab-sided, with stainless steel grab rails and the occasional green Plexiglass panels.

When buying from new, Hanse offered up to 16 different layouts and 99 options, so few ended up identical.

The interior is split into three design sections, each of which had several different available styles, such as a choice between one or two aft cabins.

The long, straight saloon settees make good sea berths and there’s stowage underneath.

Headroom is a generous 1.95m/6ft 5in, but the table will only seat four in comfort.

The chart/coffee table option comprised a small table between two seats on the saloon’s port side with shallow stowage inside for folded charts.

The chart table is small with limited instrument space. Credit: Duncan Kent

The locker containing the electrical panel has limited instrument space, which isn’t ideal as the doors have to be closed at sea.

The sensible alternative is to go for the straight settee, use the saloon table for passage planning and house most of the sailing and navigation instruments up in the cockpit.

The galley is large with plenty of stowage in numerous lockers and drawers, a full-size gimballed cooker with oven and a voluminous top-loading fridge plus a separate, smaller drinks cooler below.

Opposite, the heads is roomy with 1.83m/6ft headroom and separate shower stall with seat, under which are housed all the pumps and filters.

All the seacocks are neatly arranged and clearly labelled beneath the sink.

The aft cabins boast 1.98m/6ft 6in-long berths, 1.88m/6ft 2in headroom, a dressing area with seat and a large clothes locker.

The portside cabin has a slightly wider berth than the starboard one and is adjacent to the aft heads.

Continues below…

Bavaria C50

Epitomising the ultra-modern, high-volume production cruiser, Bavaria’s C50 offers plenty to appeal to today’s buyers. David Harding reports

Head to Head: Hanse 348 & Hanse 418

What do two more metres get you on a boat? Graham Snook sets the Hanse 348 and Hanse 418 against…

The most boat for your money? Bavaria C38 yacht test

Competition is hot for high-volume cruisers, but have Bavaria built a boat that is fun to sail as well as…

Dufour 425 GL: solid, spacious & ocean capable

Solidly built, spacious and fast, the Dufour 425 GL was one of the most popular boats in Dufour’s Grand Large…

Beneath the port berth is the calorifier, while the fuel tank is under the starboard berth.

Hull sides could be smartly wooden panelled for extra insulation.

The forecabin had the most layout options and was clearly intended to be the owner’s cabin.

Though long, in the pullman version the offset berth is only 1.00m/3ft 3in wide, which is narrow for a double.

The vee-berth option gives you more, but you lose the locker forward.

The choice then was whether to have a second wardrobe, a small ensuite heads/shower, or a desk/dressing table.

On deck & under way

The cockpit is wide and spacious, with straight seats cutaway around the large single wheel.

Initially, the transom had an open gate as standard; later a ‘drop in’ one became optional.

Either way, a fold-down transom platform provides room for showering and boarding from a dinghy.

Stowage is good, although better in the single aft cabin model, which has a full-depth cockpit locker to starboard.

The Hanse 400 has a 150mm-high companionway threshold and, cleverly, the one-piece Plexiglas washboard stows conveniently on top of the sliding hatch cover.

The mainsheet track is on the coachroof as standard and its sheet, together with all the other lines, are led back to the cockpit via neat rope garages.

The wide and spacious cockpit makes it a comfortable cruiser. Credit: Andrew Pickersgill

A mainsheet across the cockpit, just forward of the wheel, was optional and popular with racers or those regularly cruising shorthanded, but it did mean sacrificing the fold-up cockpit table.

Clear access along the side decks is enhanced by the inboard shroud plates and genoa tracks, although the handrails are tokenistic.

The toe rails are a solid alloy extrusion with integral fairleads, and all six cleats are a good size and well positioned.

The foredeck is clear of obstructions, the anchor chain being fed under the locker lid to a windlass below decks.

The chain locker is absolutely vast and able to hold an armful of fenders as well as 80m or more of chain.

The single bow roller is offset to clear the bowsprit and to enable the forestay to be attached well forward, thus allowing space to have the largest jib possible.

Rig & Sails

The Hanse 400 sports a high-aspect, 9/10ths fractional rig with twin spreaders and noticeable pre-bend.

Her backstay bifurcates above the cockpit and has a powerful six-part adjuster, while her standing rigging is discontinuous.

She comes with a fully battened, slab-reefed mainsail and lazyjacks.

This, plus her self-tacking jib and primary winches right beside the helm, makes short tacking in confined spaces simple, even single-handed.

For lighter airs there was an optional 140% gennaker, using the tracks and travellers already provided, and downwind a large asymmetric can be set on the short, retractable bowsprit supplied with the gennaker kit.

The Hanse 400 has a tall mast and generous sail area, making her a quick and powerful boat, despite the relatively small headsail.

Close reaching, she is well balanced and quick, pointing high thanks to the tightness of the jib sheeting angle and ploughing her own groove with little or no input required from the helmsman to keep her on course.

A little further off the wind and she truly flies, with the log remaining above 8 knots in a constant Force 4 plus.

Over Hanse 400 yachts have been sold since launch in 2003. Credit: Andrew Pickersgill

The rod-link steering is light but sensitive, providing plenty of feedback, and the helming position is excellent, offering a clear view forward over the low-profile coachroof.

Her streamlined underwater profile results in little wake and swift, but effortless tacking through 75° or so with little loss of momentum.

Under power, the standard 40hp Yanmar diesel provides plenty of oomph for quiet, economical cruising, while spinning so deftly about her keel that manoeuvring into tight marina berths without a bow thruster is a cinch.

Fuel capacity of 140 litres is a bit limiting, however.

Hanse Yachts Owners’ Forum: www.myhanse.com

Owners’ Experience of the Hanse 400

S/Y Dashzani (2011, HN 814)

Andrew (54) and SWade (49) Pickersgill bought Dashzani , a three-cabin model, new at the Southampton Boat Show.

They added composite wheels, a bimini/cockpit tent, a Flexifold prop and extra anchor chain.

They’ve since replaced the lighting with LEDs, installed a new battery charger and added 300W of solar panels plus a battery monitor.

Recently, they’ve fitted a second chart plotter and instrument repeater at the chart table as well.

They’ve had a few minor faults, such as nav light failures, defective wind transducers, a faulty skin fitting and a leaking engine oil seal, but nothing structural other than beefing up the boom vang fitting.

The low profile coachroof gives the helm excellent visibility. Credit: Andrew Pickersgill

Andrew says: ‘I have sailed all my life and spent more than 20 years chartering in the Solent, West Scotland or the Med with my wife. After buying this, our first yacht, we spent four years cruising the UK south coast, northern France and the Channel Islands, before giving up work to sail. We joined the ARC Portugal across Biscay and then carried on down to the Med, where we spent three seasons cruising Corsica, Italy, Sardinia, Sicily and Greece, before basing ourselves now on Menorca in the Balearics.

‘Dashzani is surprisingly quick under sail once the wind reaches 10 knots. The self-tacking headsail makes tacking a doddle, but the large mainsail needs reefing at around 16 knots true wind. She is well balanced and her helm light, making handling easy for a couple, but she doesn’t like light winds or beating into short choppy seas. In the past, racing crews have commented “It’s almost like helming a dinghy”, although not now with all our liveaboard kit onboard.

‘Downwind is fun, especially with the Parasailor spinnaker. Our fastest recorded speed is 14 knots, with 30 knots of wind behind us.

‘Though I’ve not sailed her single- handed, it shouldn’t be a problem and the bow thruster certainly makes manoeuvring under power easier.

‘We love the comfort and usability and, having lived onboard for 10 months of the year for five years, find her ideal for two people cruising. There’s ample room in all cabins and the cockpit tent provides excellent entertaining space. The transom platform extends the deck, making her feel much larger and providing almost step-free access when moored stern-to.

‘If travelling further afield we would prefer a larger battery bank to accommodate a freezer and water maker. However, the impact on storage space would probably steer us towards a larger yacht. ‘Being able to use her for extended periods has allowed us to enjoy her more than we could have imagined. Dashzani has ticked all the boxes (and more), from winning silverware in the Solent to sipping martinis on deck in the Med’.

S/Y Grey Goose (2005, 400e)

Owner, Mark Johnson, says, ‘My wife and I bought Grey Goose as second owners in 2012 and she has been exceptional. I’ve sailed 12,000 miles in other boats but the 3,000 miles in her have been the best. Our best 24-hour run so far is 187 miles crewed, and I have nearly equalled that solo.

‘When we bought her, she had a suit of rather aged Dacron sails, including a 130% genoa and self-tacking jib. They survive to this day, however a new offshore set has replaced them, providing a significant increase in performance. An asymmetric was an early upgrade for cruising, plus we added a spinnaker pole and track, though they’re mainly used for poling-out headsails as we rarely have sufficient crew to fly the spinnaker. After heavy weather experience, she now has a trysail and storm jib on an inner forestay too. Though the self-tacker and third reef are great high into the 30-knot wind range, I’d like to be able to change down a further gear when things get truly interesting!

Owner Mark Johnson finds it easy to sail Grey Goose solo. Credit: Mark Johnson

‘My joy is sailing Grey Goose single-handed, which is ridiculously easy. One powered primary winch enables swift mainsail hoisting, the other controls the mainsheet while simultaneously helming. She has a big rig for a 40ft boat – 108m² (1,163sq ft) upwind with the genoa hoisted. The single-line reefing is simple to use too, although you do end up with a copious amount of line in the cockpit. ‘Like all high freeboard designs, berthing in unfavourable winds can be awkward, although I sailed her happily for four years without a bow thruster. When we did add one, together with a Featherstream prop, the two were a great upgrade for slow speed manoeuvres under power.

‘ Grey Goose makes a great second home. My wife loves her and I’m pleased to say, on the occasional trip with crew, they’ve also found the accommodations comfortable. Build quality is great; after 16 years there are some gelcoat stress cracks, but they’re only in non-cored deck areas and are mostly ‘wounds’ inflicted by crewmembers dropping winch handles or similar. The epoxy hull is very sound and strong. We did get an issue with the fairing covering the cast iron section of the keel, but that was lobster pot impact induced!

‘The internal woodwork has held up very well but she is getting a mid-life rig refurb and upgrade this year. It will, however, leave the rig stronger for future Atlantic crossing plans. After eight years I still don’t hanker after another boat. She’s the perfect fit for us as a cruising couple and a good balance of initial cost, versus passage making capability and running costs.’

What the experts say about the Hanse 400

Nick Vass, Marine Surveyor B,Sc B,Ed HND FRINA MCMS DipMarSur YS

www.omega-yachtservices.co.uk

The Hanse 400 had a conventional GRP hull made from polyester resin, strand fibreglass matting and woven fibreglass cloth, stiffened by a foam sheet sandwich core.

The 400e had a more sophisticated composite hull that was built using epoxy resin and glass fibre cloth pre- impregnated with epoxy resin which was cured under pressure provided by a vacuum-bagging technique.

This process allows the same foam-core sandwich stiffening material to be bonded onto the inside of the hull under pressure, which results in a better bond and helps reduce the possibility of delamination where the layers of the laminate come apart.

Using epoxy instead of polyester resin also reduces the possibility of osmosis, which is just as well as I have found osmotic blistering on smaller Hanse yachts.

Dry laminate can also be an issue.

This is where not enough resin was used, resulting in the glass fibre matting being left starved of resin, making the structure weak.

Using pre-preg techniques helps ensure that the resin-to-fibre ratio is precise and that the resin infuses all of the fibres without missing patches.

The epoxy hulls were lighter as less resin was used. This is because only just enough resin needs to be mixed in.

Hanse has never made any pretence that it is anything other than a builder of modestly priced yachts and so one must expect a little cost-cutting.

Deck mouldings can be thin, but they represent good value, are good looking and are fun to sail.

A Hanse 400 was fitted with a Jeffa rudder, which had aluminium stocks. I find the stocks to be corroded and rudder post bushes can wear prematurely.

However, many German- and Scandinavian-built yachts also use this make of rudder.

The stock can become pitted just above the blade, sometimes due to galvanic corrosion caused by dissimilar metals in contact with each other.

Conventional antifouling contains a lot of copper as a biocide, which also reacts with the aluminium.

The trick is to insulate the stock with epoxy resin or use a copper-free antifouling such as International Trilux, which is designed to be applied to aluminium saildrives.

Ben Sutcliffe-Davies, Marine Surveyor and full member of the Yacht Brokers Designers & Surveyors Association (YDSA)

www.bensutcliffemarine.co.uk

The Hanse 400 and 400e didn’t have a long production run; the ones I’ve surveyed were all ex-charter fleet based abroad.

Commercial operation will often notch up high engine hours and wear to sails and running rigging, so check the yacht’s history and consider instructing a surveyor.

The Yanmar is a pretty bomb-proof engine but, like all modern engines, they do need regular servicing. Be aware of tachometers that have been replaced or frequently lose their digital readouts.

Ben Sutcliffe- Davies has been in the marine industry for over 40 years as a long- time boat builder, has been surveying craft for over 20 years and is a Full Member of the YDSA.

One of my clients had a yacht with 500 declared engine hours; on research it had over 4,500 hours.

The Hanse has a sail drive, so check when the unit’s hull sealing ring was last replaced and that the oil has no contamination.

Poor or a lack of servicing of the gearbox drive cones can often lead to a replacement unit so check servicing records.

Like Nick, I have also had issues with pitted rudder stocks and tubes.

The cockpit deck finish was teak and many yachts will now need this replacing, especially those used for charter abroad as boat decks are often washed down with a pressure washer!

As with many modern cruisers, laminates are much thinner than some older builds.

Although they are generally quite reliable, if damaged, items like the keel matrix do need proper inspection.

Alternatives to the Hanse 400 to consider

Bavaria cruiser 40.

The steering is light and responsive. Credit: Bavaria Yachts

Until it launched the Cruiser series, Bavaria yachts were known for their practicality.

In 2009, Bavaria employed BMW to give their yachts a more modern look, inside and out, with help from the Farr design team.

The result was a notable improvement in sailing performance with ‘love it or loathe it’ contemporary styling.

Construction methods remained broadly the same. The hand laid-up hulls continued to combine waterproof isophthalic polyester resins with chopped strand and woven matting, reinforced in high load areas with unidirectional Kevlar rovings.

They also had a rigid GRP/foam floor frame and Airex foam sandwich above the waterline.

The cockpit is roomy and functional, with high coamings and a large drop-leaf table.

The twin-wheels allow easy access to a large, fold-down stern platform, ideal for deck showering or for boarding.

Unlike the bigger C45, 50 and 55, the C40 only had a single, deep spade rudder instead of twins.

The two-point, double-ended mainsheet arrangement works well, but the lack of a track limits the ability to drop the traveller down to leeward in gusty conditions.

The jib sheet tracks are on the coachroof, which keeps the sheeting angle tight, but the sheets lead to winches mounted forward in the cockpit and cannot, therefore, be reached by the helm.

The cockpit is spacious with a drop-leaf table. Credit: Bavaria Yachts

Below, a two- or three-cabin layout were available, the latter sporting two spacious aft double cabins with shared heads, as well as a decent owner’s cabin forward with optional ensuite heads.

The linear galley isn’t ideal for cooking under way, but the seatback to the central bench provides a bum support.

Six can dine in comfort around the saloon dinette.

A good-size, forward-facing nav station is opposite the rear heads and close enough for easy communication with the crew.

Under sail she is spritely and responsive.

The steering is light and positive, and requires little effort to keep on course, even when pushed hard.

The hull cuts a much cleaner swathe through the water than its predecessor, meaning less slamming and spray when beating to windward, and off the wind she flies with an asymmetric chute set on the optional bowsprit.

Dufour 405GL

The open cockpit has deep coamings and a fixed table. Credit: Jean-Marie Liot

Winner of the European Yacht of the Year 2010 (family cruiser category) the Dufour 405GL was penned by Italian designer, Umberto Felci.

With full-length Twaron-reinforced stringers, criss-crossed by strong frames that spread the rig loads down to the keel, and injection-moulded, balsa sandwich decks, the Dufour 405GL is very robust.

Below, the Dufour has a traditional warm and woody interior with one or two aft cabins.

The former has an L-shaped galley aft and a chart/coffee table between two saloon seats, the latter a linear galley and forward-facing navigation station.

Both layouts have two heads with an ensuite forecabin and the headroom is excellent. In the cockpit, a sturdy drop-leaf table and grab bar helps the crew to move around safely under way, while the wide transom gate and drop-down swimming platform makes boarding easy.

Her generous beam provides wide decks and the foredeck is clear thanks to a recessed windlass and cavernous chain locker.

A short alloy bowsprit can be added for an asymmetric sail.

Like the Bavaria C40, she has twin wheels but only a single spade rudder.

The helmsman has easy access to the primary winches but all other sail controls and halyards are on the coachroof.

Her 9/10ths fractional rig came with semi-battened mainsail, though in-mast furling was popular. Her stem is almost plumb and she sports a long waterline.

Her deep, semi-balanced rudder offers a good grip on the water and, with the bulk of her cast iron ballast at the bottom of her keel, she remains stiff in wind.

Under sail, she is delightfully well-balanced and fun to handle, especially once trimmed up. On a close reach she’ll top 8-knots easily.

Delphia 40.1+

The Delphia 40.3 had a two or three cabin option. Credit: Mathias Otterberg

The Polish-built Delphia 40 went through several marques, but the differences between the models are fairly insignificant.

All had deep, shoal or swinging centreboard options. Delphias are built to Germanischer Lloyd’s exacting quality standards and are conventionally laid up by hand from solid polyester laminate below the waterline.

With a choice of a 2/3/4 cabins the Delphia 40.3 provides comfortable accommodation for extended periods.

The raised coachroof has large windows, and the 3/4 cabin models include a dinette and linear galley, whereas the latter is larger and U-shaped in the two-cabin version.

The saloon is pleasantly woody, without being gloomy, and headroom is 1.98m/6ft 6in.

The forward-facing chart table is small but adequate, with a hinged instrument console and a tray for plotting gear.

There are two heads, both of which have generous headroom and full moulded inserts.

The ensuite owner’s cabin forward boasts a generous V-berth with ample dressing area and stowage.

The berths in the aft cabins are equally roomy.

In the four-cabin version an extra twin-bunked cabin takes the place of the forward head, with the displaced head moving to the other side in place of the dressing area.

The Delphia’s cockpit is spacious, with comfortable seatbacks.

The Delphia 40.3’s shallow underwater sections, moderate beam and generous waterline make her quick and agile for her size, with no impact on stability.

She tacks briskly, even in light airs, and accelerates back up to speed in seconds. She tracks well off the wind with little to no helm adjustment needed.

• 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

• 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

• By Herb McCormick
• Updated: February 17, 2009

It was a puffy afternoon off Annapolis on the day we took the new Hanse 400e for a test drive, with a teasing northerly breeze of just 6 or 8 knots pulsing down the confines of the Severn River before building to a more respectable 10 to 12 knots a bit southward in the open Chesapeake Bay. In other words, it was just about ideal for gauging a boat’s potential in somewhat light to pleasantly moderate conditions, the sort of weather in which most people actually sail. I’d been hoping for at least a bit of wind because, even dockside, the Hanse is a boat that looks fairly quick and able, and I was eager to see if the long, low profile, combined with its generous double-spreader rig, translated to noteworthy performance under sail.

The 400 is available with many options. There are several cabin layouts, with single or twin double cabins aft, and you can choose from an island-style berth or a beam-width conventional double in the owner’s stateroom forward; regular nonskid or teak decks (though the teak cockpit and seats are standard); twin wheels or a single helm; a deep or a shallow-draft keel, each with a torpedo-shaped bulb; and, in the vessel’s construction, either a traditional fiberglass/foam core layup or a tough, lighter, vacuum-bagged composite/epoxy sandwich (hence the “e” in the name) that saves 900 pounds of displacement.

Our test boat was optimized for the Chesapeake with the shallower keel, the dual helm stations, and the epoxy hull. While I’m sure there are benefits to the other configurations, it was difficult to quibble with the combination at hand. The view forward from either of the wheels is expansive and uncluttered, thanks largely to the streamlined coachroof, the recessed headsail furling drum, and the absence of visible running rigging, which is stashed neatly beneath easily removed deck plates and led aft to twin banks of Spinlock clutches and a pair of Lewmar self-tailing winches to either side of the companionway. (The starboard halyard winch on the test boat was electric.) The Simrad chart plotter is mounted just aft of the centralized cockpit table and, in keeping with the overall theme, is clearly visible.

Under way, the plotter provided a steady record of our speed, and the numbers were impressive. With a full-hoist main and the standard 95-percent self-tacking jib, we scooted along at 5.6 to 6.3 knots in less than 8 knots of true wind while close- and beam-reaching in the confines of the river. Once outside, in 10 to 12 knots true, we managed a solid 6.5 to 6.7 knots while hard on the breeze and watched the figures slide up to the 7-knot range when just slightly cracked off. With the breeze up to 12, we fell off to a beam reach and soared along at about half a knot faster. The helm, throughout the exercise, was light and extremely responsive. Once the sails were stashed-the boat is equipped with an excellent lazy-jack system for corralling the main-we conducted trials under power and saw speeds of 7.5 knots at 2,500 rpm and about 8 knots when ramped up to 3,000 rpm. The boat backed down with authority and without vibration.

Were there things I’d like to change? Well, sure-it’s a boat! I’m not a fan of coachroof-mounted mainsheets-the driver should be able to dump the main if things get squirrelly, but Hanse is hardly the lone offender in this. Our test boat didn’t have a traveler, which seems like an oversight on a performance cruiser (though you can order one as part of a performance package, and an overlapping genoa, too), and the running-rigging arrangement for the self-tacking jib, which is initially led skyward well up the spar before winding its way aft to a cockpit winch, seemed odd to me. Finally, the split, offset backstay, controlled by a nifty block-and-tackle setup, terminates outboard to port and starboard of the open transom, which is uncomfortable for the helmsman when sitting on the coaming aft of the respective wheels. Hanse does offer optional helmsman seats for the standard crossbar at the stern, which would likely address the matter. But these are nitpicks on a boat that sails very, very well.

Moreover, I had few if any reservations about the clever and handsome mahogany interior layout (cherry is also available), and in fact I was bowled over by the lockers and storage throughout the boat. Yes, the styling is ultra-contemporary and may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the execution throughout is very well done, and the optimization of space is impressive. Our test boat had the twin doubles aft, with the port cabin lacking a bit of headroom to accommodate a topside cockpit locker. A spacious head with a big shower stall lies to port; the roomy L-shaped galley is to starboard. The better-than-average engine access is via the hinged companionway steps and side panels in the aft cabins.

The saloon is portioned off with a large U-shaped settee to starboard, a central dining table, and on our test boat, a nav desk/end table to port flanked by two comfy armchairs, which makes for a dual-purpose work/social area and maximizes the spot’s usefulness both under way and at anchor. (You can also have a straight settee and aft-facing nav table.) The owner’s cabin is forward, with oodles of hanging-locker stowage, drawers, and lockers situated all over the place. A handy vanity with a stowaway seat is a cute little touch. A second head forward is an option.

Overall, the Hanse 400e shares a lot in common with several 2009 Volks-wagens, another product of German engineering. In other words, it’s cool, quick, and modern, all delivered at a very respectable price.

Herb McCormick is a CW editor at large.

LOA 39′ 7″ (12.07 m.) LWL 35′ 5″ (10.80 m.) Beam 13′ 3″ (4.04 m.) Draft (deep) 6′ 8″ (2.03 m.) (shallow) 5′ 5″ (1.65 m.) Sail Area 1,137 sq. ft. (106 sq. m.) Ballast 5,907 lb. (2,685 kg.) Displacement (standard) 18,519 lb. (8,400 kg.) (epoxy) 17,417 lb. (7,900 kg.) Ballast/D (standard/epoxy) .32/.34 D/L (standard/epoxy) 186/175 SA/D (standard/epoxy) 26/27 Water 88 gal. (333 l.) Fuel 40 gal. (151 l.) Mast Height 64′ 0″ (19.53 m.) Engine 40-hp. diesel Designer Judel/Vrolijk & Co. Price $275,000 Hanse Yachts (410) 626-1493 www.hanseyachts.com

• More: 2001 - 2010 , 31 - 40 ft , Coastal Cruising , hanse , keelboat , 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

• Types of Sailboats
• Parts of a Sailboat
• Cruising Boats
• Small Sailboats
• Design Basics
• Sailboats under 30'
• Sailboats 30'-35
• Sailboats 35'-40'
• Sailboats 40'-45'
• Sailboats 45'-50'
• Sailboats 50'-55'
• Sailboats over 55'
• Masts & Spars
• Knots, Bends & Hitches
• The 12v Energy Equation
• Electronics & Instrumentation
• Build Your Own Boat
• Buying a Used Boat
• Choosing Accessories
• Living on a Boat
• Cruising Offshore
• Sailing in the Caribbean
• Anchoring Skills
• Sailing Authors & Their Writings
• Mary's Journal
• Nautical Terms
• Cruising Sailboats for Sale
• List your Boat for Sale Here!
• Used Sailing Equipment for Sale
• Sell Your Unwanted Gear
• Sailing eBooks: Download them here!
• Your Sailboats
• Your Sailing Stories
• Your Fishing Stories
• Advertising
• What's New?
• Chartering a Sailboat
• Cruising Yachts 40' to 45'

The Hanse 400 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

The Hanse 400, a fractional sloop, was designed by Judel/Vrolijk & Co and built in Germany by Hanse Yachts.

Published Specification for the Hanse 400

Underwater Profile:  Bulb fin keel and spade rudder

Hull Material:  GRP

Length Overall:  40'2" (12.2m)

Waterline Length:  35'5" (10.8m)

Beam:  13'3" (4.0m)

Draft:  6'6" (2.0m)

Rig Type:  Fractional sloop

Displacement:  18,739lb (8,500kg)

Designer:  Judel/Vrolijk

Builder:  Hanse Yachts (Germany)

Year First Built:  2000

Read more about the latest boats in the Hanse range...

Alternatives to the Standard Version

For those seeking additional features or customization options, Hanse Yachts offers various alternatives to the standard version of the Hanse 400 sailboat. These include:

• Hanse 400e : The "e" stands for "evolution," and this version incorporates several upgrades and refinements, such as an extended bathing platform and improved interior design.
• Hanse 400 Performance : Designed for competitive sailors, this version features a taller mast, larger sail area, and enhanced performance-oriented components.

Other options available to potential buyers include various layouts, with the option of either two or three cabins. This flexibility allows potential owners to customize the Hanse 400 to their specific preferences and requirements.

The Hanse 400 has been well received in the sailing press. Yachting World , for instance, praised the boat's balance of speed and comfort. The magazine mentioned its easy handling, spacious interior, and the ability to customize the boat's layout as highlights.

Performance

The Hanse 400 is known for its high performance under sail. Its design ratios, including the Sail Area/Displacement Ratio and the Ballast/Displacement Ratio, contribute to its impressive speed and stability.

The boat's wide beam, carried well aft, delivers plenty of initial stability, allowing it to stand up to the heeling moment induced by its sizable sail plan.

The Hanse 400 is quick and powerful but easy to handle, making it an absolute performance standout in comparison to mainstream production cruising boats. With dinghy-like performance, it's so easy to drive that you positively long to go out sailing alone.

Design Ratios

Much of its impressive sailing performance can be largely attributed to a set of carefully calculated design ratios that provide a comprehensive insight into the vessel's sailing capabilities.

• Starting with the Sail Area/Displacement Ratio (SA/D) , the Hanse 400 boasts a ratio of 23.52. This suggests the boat is designed with speed in mind, having a considerable sail area relative to its displacement. It's a ratio that indicates the Hanse 400 will perform exceptionally well in light wind conditions.
• The Ballast/Displacement Ratio is another critical factor in understanding a sailboat’s stability. The Hanse 400 exhibits a ratio of 29.6%, which suggests that it provides a good righting moment and a fairly stiff ride, even under strong winds.
• The Displacement/Length Ratio (D/L) of the Hanse 400 is 170.58. A lower D/L ratio signifies a lighter and potentially faster boat, while a higher ratio indicates a heavier, possibly slower vessel. Given the Hanse 400's ratio, you can expect a balance between speed and comfort.
• The Comfort Ratio for the Hanse 400 is 24.4, indicating that it offers a reasonably comfortable ride even in challenging conditions. This makes the Hanse 400 ideal for long-distance cruising and for sailing in rough waters.
• Finally, according to the Capsize Screening Formula (CSF) , the Hanse 400’s value of 2.02 suggests that the boat has a good level of safety in the event of a capsize. A CSF less than 2 is considered suitable for offshore cruising, so the Hanse 400 edges just above this range.

But how representative are these design ratios, and how are they derived?

Sailing Press Reviews

The sailing press has praised the Hanse 400 for its exceptional performance and innovative design. Here are some excerpts from notable reviews:

Practical Boat Owner mentioned: "Its construction quality, ease of operation, and its image as a well-trained athlete—strong, capable, and legitimately deserving of its billing as a “crossover” sailboat."

Sailing Today said: "The Hanse 400 is a joy to sail, offering excellent speed and responsiveness. Its modern design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for cruising enthusiasts."

Yachting Monthly said: "With its sleek lines and well-balanced rig, the Hanse 400 delivers an exhilarating sailing experience. It strikes an excellent balance between performance and comfort."

While the Hanse 400 is generally well-regarded, some owners have commented on a few areas of potential improvement. These include the need for better access to the back of the electrical panel and improvements to the boat's steering system for smoother handling.

The Secondhand Market

If you're seeking a Hanse 400 for sale, the secondhand market is quite active. Prices for used Hanse 400 sailboats vary significantly based on factors such as age, condition, and the extent of equipment and upgrades.

As of writing, prices range from around $100,000 for older models to upwards of $150,000 for newer, well-maintained examples.

The Competition

When comparing the Hanse 400 to similar sailboats in its class, it holds its own impressively. The boat's performance, comfort, and customizable options make it a viable contender against other popular models like the Beneteau Oceanis 40 and the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40.

The Beneteau Oceanis 40, for instance, offers similar accommodation and performance but might not provide the same level of customization as the Hanse 400. The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 40, on the other hand, offers a slightly higher Comfort Ratio but may not match the Hanse 400's sailing performance.

Overall, the Hanse 400 sailboat is an appealing package for anyone seeking a blend of performance, comfort, and the freedom to customize their boat to their liking. The boat ticks essential boxes for both cruising comfort and racing performance, making it a versatile choice.

And Finally...

The Hanse 400's build quality is impressive, thanks to the application of modern boatbuilding techniques and high-quality materials. The structure of the boat is solid, with a robust hull and a well-built interior that stands the test of time.

The Hanse 400 also offers an impressive living space, with a well-thought-out layout that maximizes the available room without compromising performance. The interior design strikes a balance between functionality and aesthetics, offering a comfortable and inviting environment for living aboard.

The Hanse 400's user-friendly sail handling system, featuring a self-tacking jib and a fully battened mainsail, is particularly noteworthy. This system makes the boat easy to handle, even when sailing single-handedly or in challenging conditions.

Maintenance of the Hanse 400 is made easier thanks to the boat's design and construction. Most equipment is easy to access and service, and the boat's build quality means that it should stand up to regular use without requiring excessive upkeep.

As with any boat, owning a Hanse 400 does require a commitment of time and money. However, given the boat's performance and comfort, many owners find this a worthy investment for the joy and freedom that comes with owning such an impressive sailboat.

I wrote this article using GPT-4, OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model, as a research assistant to develop source material. I wrote the final draft in its entirety and believe it to be accurate to the best of my knowledge.

Dick McClary, creator and owner of sailboat-cruising.com

Other sailboats in the Hanse range include:

Recent Articles

'Natalya', a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54DS for Sale

Mar 17, 24 04:07 PM

'Wahoo', a Hunter Passage 42 for Sale

Mar 17, 24 08:13 AM

Used Sailing Equipment For Sale

Feb 28, 24 05:58 AM

Here's where to:

• Find  Used Sailboats for Sale...
• Find Used Sailing Gear for Sale...
• List your Sailboat for Sale...
• List your Used Sailing Gear...
• Sign-up for our newsletter, 'The Sailboat Cruiser' ...
• Identify this month's Mystery Boat...

Our eBooks...

A few of our Most Popular Pages...

Copyright © 2024  Dick McClary  Sailboat-Cruising.com

Yachting World

• Digital Edition

Hanse 460 review: First in a new range

• David Harding
• January 26, 2023

The Hanse 460 is the first in a new range of Hanses. From new designers, she is already a big hit, with over 200 sold and a European Yacht of the Year win to its name. David Harding reports

Product Overview

Price as reviewed:.

For some of us, sailing has always been about the functional and fundamental. We enjoy sailing for sailing’s sake. But today people want so much more from a boat and, in many respects, today’s yachts undoubtedly offer a lot more and the Hanse 460 attempts to do just that.

What you might loosely call the mainstream European builders of family cruising yachts have been following this path for some time, making each generation of designs bigger and plusher than the last. For Hanse in particular, it has been a rapid evolution from the small, basic and functional to the large and luxurious.

This latest Hanse is the first to be designed by Berret-Racoupeau. After the earliest models, which used the moulds of discontinued, slim-hulled Scandinavian designs, every Hanse has been designed by Judel/Vrolijk in what became one of boatbuilding’s most enduring and successful partnerships.

In line with modern trends, each new wave of Hanses has been higher, wider and more voluminous than the last. Founder Michael Schmidt never lost sight of the performance side, however. For all their growing girths and towering topsides, Hanse has always made boats that sail – competitively-priced, high-volume cruisers but with easy handling (self-tacking jibs were used from the early days) and better performance than many of the alternatives.

The single rudder is light and responsive on the helm. Photo: HanseYachts/Nico Krauss

The Hanse 460 is different. Very different. The first model from a new alliance with the French designers, it promptly won the European Yacht of the Year as the best Family Cruiser for 2022. A Hanse 510 version now follows.

The big question was whether Hanse had managed to do something different while retaining the qualities that its owners had traditionally sought.

At a glance, the Hanse 460 looks sleeker and sportier than earlier models; more angular, with a reverse rake to the bow and a pronounced knuckle running to about half-way aft. In Hanse tradition there are no hard-angled chines but, in this case, a pronounced soft chine towards the stern. In plan view you see full forward sections which, combined with the broad stern, generous freeboard and ample beam, hold the promise of enormous interior volume.

The 460’s generous and uncluttered cockpit. Photo: HanseYachts/Nico Krauss

At the other end, a moulded bowsprit projects the anchor clear of the stem and provides an attachment point for an outer forestay which can carry a reaching headsail. Large windows in the topsides help to break up the high freeboard.

Scale those topsides and you’re faced with an expanse of wide, flat deck and coachroof. Moulded bulwarks edge the side decks to help keep feet where they belong should you venture forward when the boat’s heeled. Otherwise what stands out is the uncluttered appearance – lines are led aft beneath separate mouldings – and the plethora of deck hatches hinged every which way, including one that opens to reveal a large bow locker.

There was certainly nothing to complain about in the performance and handling department. We slipped along very nicely on a flat sea in 12-14 knots of wind, clocking around 7.5 knots with the apparent wind at just under 30°, and tacking through around 80° by the compass.

Moulded bowsprit keeps anchor clear of the stem and provides attachment for the optional outer forestay. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

Enjoyable sailing

Weather helm was slight and the load on the wheels increased relatively little if I tried bearing away with the sheets pinned in, the single rudder providing plenty of grip. Provoked in the opposite direction, she coped well when pinched mercilessly and also when thrown into tight spins, only stalling briefly.

At least in the flat water and modest breeze we encountered, the cockpit worked well. In any wind and seaway you would be pleased to have the optional second table to port as a bracing point. At the helm stations you have a comfortable perch outboard of the wheel or, for energetic downwind sailing when you might need both hands, behind it. The Jefa linkage is light and direct, giving a good feel from the rudder. On the starboard side you can wind down the bifurcated backstay when extra headstay tension is needed.

Hanse 460 is from Berret-Racoupeau. Photo: Andreas Lindlahr/EYOTY

Today’s cockpits are no longer just places from where you control the boat. Controlling the boat in itself is so much easier anyway, especially if – as most owners of the Hanse 460 will – you upgrade to electric winches, electric in-mast reefing and electric furling for the genoa on the outer forestay.

Other push-button options are for the hinge-down bathing platform and the cockpit tables (either side or both), which can be lowered to create large lounging areas. Alternatively there are fixed tables, as we had on the port side. A wet-bar can be added between the helm seats. It’s all part of making the cockpit a multi-function space in which every part can serve a variety of purposes. Cockpit stowage is in the form of a half-depth locker each side and – a first for Hanse – a dedicated liferaft locker right aft to starboard. With the electric-lowering option for the starboard table comes an extra moulded seat pod, which provides readily-accessible shallow stowage forward of the starboard helm and would be good to have for that reason alone.

Portlights and windows flood the saloon with natural light. Photo: HanseYachts/Nico Krauss

Moving about the deck and cockpit, and from one to the other, is easy in good weather. The wide open spaces let you simply stroll around – or lounge if you’re so inclined. Then again, they tend to present more of a challenge when a boat’s bouncing and heeling.

Lifestyle choices

Externally, the hull lines clearly differentiate the 460 from her earlier stablemates, but down below it’s a world apart. It’s certainly a more classy finish than we’ve seen before from Hanse; restrained in tone and a level above what we have become used to. Berret-Racoupeau is one of relatively few yacht design studios to have its own interior-design division.

Stateroom forecabin has generous stowage above and below the bed. Photo: HanseYachts/Nico Krauss

A host of interior layouts is available, from three to five cabins, up to four showers and from six to 10 berths. About the only constant is the presence of twin double cabins in the stern. Otherwise you can have different arrangements in the bow (cabins and heads) and amidships with a long or short linear galley and a bunk cabin or utility room to starboard where our boat had a chart table and heads compartment.

Details include backrests that hinge down in the saloon to provide trays and drinks-holders. You can press a button to lower the table, press another to pop up the TV from its central pod, and settle in for the evening.

Down here it’s all about sight-lines, integrating the different areas so no one feels left out, and ensuring that, as in the cockpit, every part of the layout performs multiple functions. In practice it creates a thoroughly pleasant and remarkably light environment.

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.

Sometimes you come across a boat that makes you realise not only that yacht design has changed irrevocably, but also why it has changed and why it’s not going back. The Hanse 460 is unquestionably such a boat. How the crew lives aboard and moves around, both above and below decks, has clearly been thought about in the context of modern lifestyles. And this boat exudes style. If you like the fundamental design, you will be able to tailor many of the options and details to suit your tastes. A yacht like this is unlikely to slice to windward in heavy weather as comfortably as, say, a first-generation Swan 46, but most people aren’t really interested in that these days. I suspect the new Hanse will prove to be a pretty quick and competent all-rounder nonetheless. Simple sailing? The technology is not remotely simple any more. But with the Hanse 460, the sailing itself is simple and can still be a lot of fun.

Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session. Sign in to save them permanently, access them on any device, and receive relevant alerts.

• Sailboat Guide

Hanse 400 is a 40 ′ 1 ″ / 12.2 m monohull sailboat designed by Judel/Vrolijk & Co. and built by Hanse Yachts starting in 2006.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

A number of different interior arrangements available. (standard layout shown here) Deck and interior updated in 2008. ISO Category A “Offshore” Germanischer Lloyd GL Yacht Plus standard.

Embed this page on your own website by copying and pasting this code.

• About Sailboat Guide

©2024 Sea Time Tech, LLC

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• +90 252 614 00 14
• HANSE 40 Yat Kiralama - Ece Yachting
• Ece Yachting

• Private Yacht Charter
• Special Offers
• Gulet Charter
• Motor Yacht Charter
• Bareboat Yachts
• Trawler Yachts
• Yacht Charter Prices
• Cabin Charter
• Destinations
• SAILING YACHT FOR RENT
• Air.Con. N/A

Prices EUR USD GBP TRY

• Prices are Weekly. Included / Not Included Price

ABOUT HANSE 40

• Type Yelkenli
• Build / Ren. 2008
• Air.Con. Yok
• Engine 40 HP Yanmar
• Price €1750

GENERAL DETAILS

Year built/refit

YANMAR DIESEL 40 HP

Length               12 m 17 cm.

Cruising: x Knots, Maximum: 16 Knots

Sailing Region

Clean water tank

Dirty water tank

Specifications

What's Included

• Port taxes, marina binding fees (excluding private marinas)
• Transitlog, port formalities and agency services
• Mooring fees
• Personnel services
• Daily cleaning
• Water (General Use)
• Motorized water sports on board*
• Yacht insurance

What's NOT included?

• Food and beverages
• In and out of international waters customs expenses and port fees
• Fuel for motorized water sports*
• Staff Crew tip is also not included in price.

ENQUIRY FORM FOR HANSE 40 YACHT

JOIN  OUR  NEWSLETTER

Get the latest deals and offers as soon as they happen!

New luxury sailing yachts and sailboats for sale

Cruising yachts.

Experience the thrill of the sea with Hanse's cruising yachts , designed for the discerning sailor. Ranging from 31 to 56 feet, our cruising yachts are the epitome of modern design and effortless maneuverability. With their asymmetric design and outstanding ease of handling, Hanse cruising yachts are the perfect choice for those seeking a blend of comfort and performance on their sailing adventures.

Our cruising yachts are more than just sailing boats; they are your home away from home. Developed to offer high comfort without compromising on sailing performance, each yacht is a testament to our commitment to quality and innovation. This commitment is further demonstrated through our collaboration with the world-renowned yacht architects from Berret-Racoupeau Yacht Design.

But what truly sets Hanse apart is our unique offering of yachts designed to accommodate a self-tacking jib. This feature allows for easy single-handed maneuvering, coupled with a powerful sail plan, making our cruising yachts the ideal choice for those seeking an effortless and enjoyable sailing experience. Discover the Hanse difference today and set sail on your dream cruising yacht.

Fast Cruising. Easy Sailing.

Dive into Hanse's legacy of German precision. Our yachts manifest ease, family comfort, and unparalleled value in every sail.

Latest news

We are all hanse.

"From the outset, Hanse yachts have been designed for easy sailing, fast cruising and comfortable living on the water. In the world of serial yachts, there is no offer that can be better customised. And the design speaks for itself - just like the more than  8.800  Hanses that have been delivered to date and make their owners happy." Hanjo Runde, CEO HanseYachts AG

Find your dream yacht in seconds

Seize the moment - schedule your appointment today.