371 - delivery

I have a 371 from 02, and agree with you regarding the performance of the boat. The balance is perfect, even when she is overpressed. I've had my 371 for five years, and have done lots of small changes and improvements. The germans didn't get everything right when they installed, for instance, the plumming. But these are minor problems, and fairly easy to correct.

Better insulation around the fridge are among my vinter projects, and perhaps new dyneema halyards. The original halyards are too heavy and cause too much friction, especially the main halyard.

I'm sure that other Hanse-owners disagree, but I think the 371 is the best looking model, - aggressive and classic at the same time.

We didn't have much of a summer here in south Norway, but I still managed more than 1000 nautical miles so far, - and perhaps september will be nice and warm.

The small fuel tank? Haven't noticed, and never missed a larger one. With this sailboat, I use the engine much less than I did on my other boats. But I would like an extra water tank, and there's room for one under the settee, starboard side of the cabin. I have only one aft cabin, and don't need the extra storage anyways.

Cheers, - and happy sailing!

I have also taken delivery of a new Hanse 385 this season and have been very impressed with the sailing characteristics of the boat - another "couldn't be happier" owner.

also congratulation to your new boat! I was delighted to read you message and I can confirm every word. We have BN 32 since 2009 and the sailing performance is really great. Have a lock to the main issue of the 371 type (especially the early ones) in the forum: Undershrouds, water in the volume below the anchor locker and corrosion at the rudder axis.

Have fun with you boat,

QUOTE=BAJJ]

Hi All,

I have taken delivery of ‘Zubenelgenubi’ hull No. 59 from 2001. We had a great trip from Sint Annaland in Holland to Kinsale in Ireland, all sorts of weather from 2 days of no wind to the highlight being 25 - 30kt easterlies coming down the English Channel. I was delighted with the way the 371 handles, extremely responsive, light on the wheel and she never once lost grip on a wave or buried her nose. I have spent most of my sailing life racing yachts, most recently on an Elan 40 and an x362 performance and I feel that the 371 feels as if she performs as well as both of those. She gives good feedback, It’s very apparent when the sail trim is wrong, she feels sluggish and when the sail trim is right she feels eager to go. Exactly what I wanted, a performance cruising boat.

The boat accommodated 4 adult males for a week, we never felt uncomfortable, crowded or short of space. Our ‘chef’ commented that the galley was clearly designed by someone who knew how to cook, again with plenty of storage space for everything needed.

I would also recommend a long trip like our delivery as a way to get to know your boat and its capabilities, apart from a few little niggles that we all know about (small fuel tank, main track etc) she performed excellently. I couldn't be happier to be honest, I don’t think I would have been as happy with the more beamier / lighter alternatives that are out there, the endless research prior to purchase was worth it.

So now it’s on to getting her how I want her and enjoying many cruising days. I am sure that this forum will be a great help in the future.

Cheers

BAJJ

[/QUOTE]

Good luck with an interesting trip.