Beneteau Oceanis 311 (1997-2003)
The Beneteau Oceanis 311 is a versatile vessel, offering the spacious amenities of a larger cruiser while maintaining the nimble handling of a 30-footer. Designed for family cruising or simply enjoying the harbor sunset, the boat provides private forward and aft cabins, a comprehensive galley with ample storage, and a roomy main salon with a centerline table. An optional retractable keel further enhances its adaptability. Note that the Beneteau 311 and the Oceanis 311 are identical boats; Beneteau USA simply streamlined the name for marketing purposes.
Pros
- Powers up quickly in lighter winds
- Easy to handle for solo or short-handed sailing
- Spacious interior with a large aft cabin for a 31-foot sailboat
- Two private cabins with a large head
- Shallow draft, also offered with a lifting keel option
- Strong resale value and active owner community
Cons
- Requires reefing in moderate to strong winds
- Lighter displacement creates a more active motion in rough seas
- Limited storage & cold storage for extended cruising
Two cabins and one head layout
OCEANIS 311 SPECIFICATIONS
| LOA | 32’4″ |
| LWL | 28’10” |
| BEAM | 10’7″ |
| DISPLACEMENT | 8,047 lbs |
| DRAFT | 4’11” |
| DRAFT, LIFTING KEEL | 2.6′ – 6.5′ |
| BALLAST | 2,425 lbs |
| BALLAST, LIFTING KEEL | 3,087 lbs |
| AIR DRAFT | 46’7 |
| HEADROOM | 6′-6’1″ |
| ENGINE | 2GM20F |
| DESIGNER | Groupe Finot |
| CE RATING | B-6 |
| PRODUCTION | 2007-2003 |
| BUILT | United States & France |
Engine:
The Yanmar 2GM20F is a widely recognized auxiliary diesel engine, commonly installed in sailboats from 28 to 34 feet. This two-cylinder, freshwater-cooled engine delivers ~18 horsepower. It is highly valued for its straightforward design, durability, and long operational lifespan.
The Lifting Keel was available on Beneteau models in Europe as early as the 1980s, and it was designed for their extreme tides. The option was first offered on the US-built Oceanis models in 1997, with the Oceanis 311 (featured above), and is currently available on the Oceanis 30.1 (introduced in 2020), which is a benefit for the shallow waters of the Gulf & East Coasts.
OCEANIS 311 RESOURCES
- Oceanis 311 Brochure
- Oceanis 311 Equipment List
- Oceanis 311 Owner’s Manual (available upon request)
- Volvo Penta Stuffing Gland Maintenance
- Lifting Keel Maintenance
- Oceanis 311 Parts
- Oceanis 311 Sailboats For Sale
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