Hanse 630 or Hanse 540 for solo circumnavigation

[oceanbluesail09]

Hi everyone, this is my first post to the forum, although i do read this site quite often.

I intend to attempt a single handed circumnavigation via Cape Horn next year. I ve been considering the Hanse 540 or Hanse 630 amongst other models such as the Swan 60, Island Packet, Hallberg Rassy, Jenneau.

The question of build vs buy, i intend to buy for reasons of economy, proven designs, availabiity of spares and an experienced team.

Ive seen some very good reviews about the Hanse 630e
http://www.hanseyachts.com/EN/Yachts/Cu ... l/640.aspx

Would like to know the general opinion of this forum on the suitability of such a yacht for such a circumnavigation.

There will be ofcourse modifications made such as a carbon rig, crash boxes etc. So it will not be a 'complete' off the shelf yacht.

The 540 seems a lot more managable. However, does the length of the hull matter? ie. longer the better ?

Just narrowing down the options on which yacht to go for now.
would appreciate any inputs,
thanks

[sahona]

don't know this model. Is it a troller-yacht?

[Nick]

.
It is impossible to get replacement bulbs outside Europe for the integrated cockpit light in the boom, so this alone renders this yacht totally unsuitable for bluewater voyaging in my opinion.

Why not look at an Albin Vega? You can get one fully equipped for a circumnavigation and ready to go for a shade over £35,000 - PM me for more details.

[Nick]

.
One for sale HERE for just $Aus1,730,000 (approx. £846,783 at today's rate of exchange).

The thing I like most about the blurb is the phrase: Simplicity at its best but personally I find the interior a little stark and modern for my taste:



The 540 is less than half the price, but I guess for you money is no object, otherwise a second hand but ready to go Open 60 would seem to be a sensible bet EXAMPLE . Your shiny new Hanse will get a battering on the way round, with red wine stains all over the upholstery - and you will certainly lose a lot of money on it, while the Open 60 will just have another notch in its reputation and you will lose very little on resale.

It aint going to be comfortable or pleasant for the most part, so don't be fooled by the glossy brochures and go for a proper workhorse, not a gin palace.

[oceanbluesail09]

Hi Nick, thanks. Did look at open 60's on sale.
for example
http://www.sailboattraderonline.com/lis ... 0-91402623

average price US$ 400,000...

still ont eh expensive side for a single circumnavigation...

in the process of speaking to the hanse factory, to see what modifications are possible with one of their production versions...

will keep u guys updated,

thx

[oceanbluesail09]

Hi guys just a quick update, the research is pointing more towards going for a used Open 60 instead of a Hanse...a few ones on the market that willl be looked at over the next few weeks...
the only issue is getting a reliable survey done on the carbon fiber integrity...with anyluck there will still some resale value left after my solo sail...
will keep you guys posted,

[Nick]

.
A proper workhorse built for the job - the right choice I believe.

A couple of questions now you have piqued our curiosity:

a) What is your trip's USP (unique selling point) for sponsors?

b) Any chance of keeping us regularly updated on here with your progress?

[Booby Trapper]

.
It is impossible to get replacement bulbs outside Europe for the integrated cockpit light in the boom, so this alone renders this yacht totally unsuitable for bluewater voyaging in my opinion.

Why not look at an Albin Vega? You can get one fully equipped for a circumnavigation and ready to go for a shade over £35,000 - PM me for more details.

I don't think you're taking this serious