hanse yachts 400

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.

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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.

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• 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

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Hanse 400 ** NOW SOLD **

Used yachts for sale, sail monohulls 35ft > 40ft,        hanse boats for sale, hanse 400 boats for sale.

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• Location Phuket, TH
• Builder Hanse
• Designer Judel and Vrolijk

2009 Hanse 400e | Venture

Venture is a meticulously designed sailing yacht that effortlessly blends performance, comfort, and style. The Hanse 400e is renowned for its German engineering and craftsmanship, and this vessel is a testament to Hanse’s commitment to producing sailing yachts that cater to both seasoned sailors and those seeking the thrill of the open water.

Measuring 40 feet in length, the Hanse 400e boasts sleek lines and a contemporary profile, ensuring a striking presence both at the marina and while out on the open sea. The yacht’s clean deck layout showcases an emphasis on functionality and ease of handling, making it an ideal choice for single-handed or short-handed sailing.

One of the standout features of the Hanse 400e is its spacious and ergonomic cockpit, designed to facilitate comfortable cruising and entertaining. The single helm station offer excellent visibility and control, allowing the skipper to navigate with confidence. Ample seating and strategically placed winches provide effortless sail management, enhancing the overall sailing experience.

Below deck, the Hanse 400e exudes a sense of refined luxury. The interior is bathed in natural light, courtesy of large hull windows and hatches. The intelligent layout maximizes space, with a well-appointed saloon that includes a spacious dining area and a well-equipped galley. High-quality finishes and materials create an atmosphere of modern elegance, ensuring a comfortable stay whether at anchor or in a marina.

The forward master cabin offers a generous berth, ample storage, and an ensuite bathroom for privacy and convenience. Additional cabins situated aft provide cozy sleeping quarters for guests or family members, maintaining the vessel’s ethos of combining practicality with comfort.

Under sail, the Hanse 400e truly shines. Its efficient hull design and sail plan enable impressive performance, making it a joy to sail in various wind conditions. Whether on a leisurely coastal cruise or participating in competitive racing, the yacht’s responsive handling and balanced manoeuvrability ensure an exhilarating experience.

Venture encapsulates the essence of modern sailing excellence. From its sleek exterior lines to its thoughtfully designed interior, this yacht offers an exceptional balance of aesthetics, performance, and comfort. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or new to the world of sailing, the Hanse 400e beckons with its promise of unforgettable adventures on the open water.

Contact the team to arrange an inspection.

Specifications

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• P: +61 (0)7 5452 5164
• E: [email protected]
• P: +66 (0) 76 238 117

New Zealand

• P: +64 (0)9 217 0600

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HANSE 400 similar search results:

DEHLER 41 DS

COMPROMIS C 36 CLASS

COMPROMIS C 36

The hanse 400 shown below has been sold:.

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• De Valk Hindeloopen The Netherlands
• +31 514 52 40 00
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Broker's comments.

The Hanse 400 is a stylish performance sailing yacht with luxurious accommodation and all the comforts below deck. The master cabin is located in the front and the 2 guest cabins in the aft, separate bathroom with shower and toilet. This Hanse 400 is a perfect family cruiser with all the comfort you need. This is a well equipped owners version with a retractable bow thruster, electric winch and windlass, gennaker and Simrad equipment on both steering positions. Now ready to be inspected 7 days a week in our sales harbor in Hindeloopen.

		12,10 x 4,04 x 2,05 (m)
		grp
		2010
		1 x Yanmar 3JH4E diesel
		40 (hp), 29,44 (kw)

		at sales office
		De Valk Hindeloopen
		sold

General - HANSE 400

HANSE 400

sailing yacht

12,10

10,80

4,04

2,05

20,00

1,98

2010

2011

Hanse Yachts GmbH

Germany

Judel / Vrolijk & Co

8,4

2,68

A

GRP

white

round-bilged

fin keel

stainless steel

non-skid moulded in

teak

2020

polycarbonate

5x flush

approx. 140 ltr.

yes

polyethylene  Approx. 325 ltr.

polyethylene

deck extraction + uw line

mechanical  2x Jefa steering system

Accommodation

3

6

mahogany

wood

1.98 mtr.

diesel ducted hot air  Eberspächer Airtronic D4

2x

corian  - DuPont

stainless steel  double sink

calor gas  2 burner

in cooker

Isotherm

220V + engine  Isotemp boiler

electrical

French bed  Front cabin - Neptune mattress

2,15 mtr.

hanging and shelves

double bed  aft cabin

> 2 mtr.

double bed

shared

Jabsco

manual

1

Yanmar

3JH4E

40

29,44

diesel

7,5

550

freshwater heat exchanger

sail-drive

bowden cable

mechanical

electric  RMC Marine - Retractable

watercooled

folding

12 / 220 Volt

12V - 70Ah

2x AMG 12V - 165Ah

Sterling Pro Charge

with cable

Plastimo Contest 130

3x Simrad IS20

Simrad IS20

Lowrance LVR-880

Simrad AP24

Simrad NX40

Delta

electrical  Lewmar

wire  - stainless steel

sloop

wire

Sparcraft

aluminium

2 pair

Furlex 300 TD

2011, hardly used

quick-one-line-reefing

gasspring

2x Lewmar 46

2x Lewmar 40 ( one electric )

BAVARIA 41 EXCLUSIVE

BENETEAU OCEANIS CLIPPER 42 CC

VICTOIRE 1270

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Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 & Hanse 590 world premiere

The Cannes Yachting Festival, one of the most prestigious events in the global yachting calendar, is set to return in 2024 with its 47th edition and presentation of nearly 700 boats.

Founded in 1977, this annual event has become a cornerstone for the industry, showcasing the latest innovations, luxury yachts, and marine technologies. It serves as a vital platform for yacht manufacturers, designers, and maritime enthusiasts to connect, network, and explore the future of yachting.

The festival's importance is underscored by its ability to attract industry leaders and discerning clientele. It is a key event for setting trends in the yachting world, and this year we use this event as a great opportunity to present for the first time a new model in the Hanse brand portfolio – Hanse 590.

Hanse 590 world premiere during Cannes Yachting Festival 2024:

The Hanse 590 makes its highly anticipated world debut at Cannes 2024. This luxurious yacht redefines on-water living by blending cutting-edge design with expansive, intelligently connected spaces from bow to stern. The revolutionary layout ensures that the helm, located aft, offers the skipper a clear view of everyone on deck while maintaining an uninterrupted circulation flow that avoids disturbing guests. This design seamlessly connects all areas while thoughtfully separating working zones from guest spaces.

Sealine & Ryck Stand at Cannes Yachting Festival 2024

Location: Porto Canto - POWER

Stand Number: POWER145

Sealine Boats Afloat Number: POWER047

Ryck Afloat Number: POWER046

SEALINE S335 : A compact yet luxurious motor yacht, the Sealine S335 offers agile handling and sophisticated design, perfect for weekend getaways.

SEALINE C390 : Known for its spacious interiors and innovative use of space, the Sealine C390 is ideal for family cruising with comfort and style.

SEALINE S430 : The Sealine S430 combines powerful performance with elegant design, featuring a large cockpit and customizable interior options.

Ryck 280 : The Ryck 280 is a versatile and sporty motorboat, designed for those who appreciate both performance and style, ideal for water sports and coastal cruising.

When does the Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 take place?

The Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 is set to take place from September 10th to 15th, 2024. The festival's opening hours are as follows:

Tuesday, September 10th to Thursday, September 12th: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Friday, September 13th: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Saturday, September 14th: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Sunday, September 15th: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Tickets for the Cannes Yachting Festival are available on the festival's official website.

How to Get to the Cannes Yachting Festival?

The Cannes Yachting Festival takes place in the heart of the French Riviera, in the picturesque city of Cannes. The event is spread across two main venues: the Vieux Port and Port Canto. Attendees can get here:

By Air: The nearest major airport is Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), located about 27 kilometers from Cannes. From the airport, you can take a taxi, a private transfer, or a direct bus to Cannes. Alternatively, a helicopter transfer from Nice to Cannes is available for a more luxurious experience, taking just seven minutes.

By Train: Cannes is well-connected by train, with frequent services from major cities like Paris, Nice, and Monaco. The Cannes train station is centrally located, a short walk from the Vieux Port.

By Car: If driving, Cannes is accessible via the A8 motorway, which connects it to major cities along the French Riviera. Parking can be limited during the festival, so it is advisable to book a parking spot in advance or use public transport once in Cannes.

By Sea: For those arriving by yacht, berthing options are available at both the Vieux Port and Port Canto, but these need to be booked well in advance due to high demand during the festival.

Let's meet during Cannes Yachting Festival

The Cannes Yachting Festival 2024 promises to be an exciting event, with Hanse Yachts showcasing some of the most anticipated models of the year. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or new to yachting, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the latest in luxury yachts, cutting-edge marine technology, and the vibrant culture of yachting.