The Oceanis Clipper 331 is a 10-meter cruising sailboat, designed by Finot-Conq and built by Beneteau between 1999 and 2005. With 822 units produced, this successful boat has become a benchmark for sailors seeking a vessel that combines comfort and safety for family sailing. Available in keelboat or lifting keel versions, it is appreciated for its generous living space, ease of handling, and adaptability for both coastal and offshore cruising.
Key Features
- Comfort and Livability: 2 meters of headroom, 2 or 3 double cabins, equipped kitchen, and bathroom.
- Versatility: Suitable for family, couple, or solo cruising, easy to handle.
- Robustness and Reliability: Polyester construction, simple rigging, bulb keel or lifting keel.
- Popularity: Highly appreciated by sailing schools and owners for its balance of space, safety, and performance.
History of the Boat
The Oceanis Clipper 331 was launched in 1999, succeeding the Oceanis Clipper 321. It embodies the Oceanis philosophy: a successful compromise between livability, safety, and sailing pleasure. The Finot-Conq firm, renowned for its fast hulls and optimized layouts, designed a boat that competes with models like the Dufour 34 and the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 32.2.
Production ran until 2005, with a total of 822 units built. The Clipper 331 was offered in two keel versions: a fixed keel (1.60 m draft) for deep waters and a lifting keel (variable draft from 0.90 m to 2.10 m) for tidal areas or shallow anchorages. Beneteau targeted a wide audience, from families to solo skippers, focusing on ease of use and robustness.
Interior Layout
The Oceanis Clipper 331 surprises with its interior volume, comparable to that of 12-meter sailboats from previous decades. The headroom reaches 2 meters in the living areas, offering appreciable comfort even for taller individuals. The boat is available in 2 or 3 cabin versions, with a spacious saloon, a functional kitchen, and a complete bathroom.
The 3-cabin version can accommodate up to 6 people, with a spacious forward cabin, an aft cabin, and a starboard or port cabin depending on the layout. This configuration allows some couples to have a technical space. The saloon, featuring a large table, is bright thanks to numerous portholes. The kitchen, equipped with a stove, sink, and fridge, is designed for extended cruises. Storage is plentiful, with closed lockers and compartments under the benches.
The light wood or teak finishes create a warm and modern atmosphere. Owners praise the quality of the materials and the ergonomics of the spaces, although some regret the narrowness of the lockers in the cabins.
Sailing Qualities
The Clipper 331 is renowned for its balanced sailing performance. Its hull offers a good compromise between stability and speed. In the keelboat version, it sails well upwind and handles the sea with confidence. The lifting keel version allows access to shallower areas and improves maneuverability in ports.
Under sail, it is responsive and easy to steer, even in rough seas. Sailing performance is respectable for a cruiser, with a cruising speed of between 5 and 7 knots depending on conditions. With its optional Volvo 29 hp engine, it achieves a cruising speed of about 6 knots.
Owners appreciate its ease of handling, especially with a reduced crew, thanks to simple rigging and well-placed winches. Safety is enhanced by a solid hull and a well-organized deck.
Owners’ Reviews
Feedback is generally very positive. Frequently cited strengths:
- Livability: Appreciable space and brightness for a 10-meter boat.
- Handling: Easy to maneuver, even solo.
- Robustness: Solid construction, few reported structural issues.
One owner summarizes: “The Oceanis 331 is a very comfortable family cruiser. The interior volumes are very generous with plenty of storage. At sea, I find it secure, stable, and a good performer from 10 knots of wind. It’s not a racer, but it’s easy to enjoy.” Some have modified the mainsail sheeting system for more precision or added equipment like a mainsheet track.
Points to watch:
- Chainplates: Some owners have had to replace them after several years.
- Lockers: Shallow in the cabins, limiting storage.
- Electronics: Some older models require an update of the instruments.
Oceanis Clipper 331 Technical Specifications
| Category | Data |
|---|---|
| Builder | Beneteau (France) |
| Architect | Finot-Conq |
| Launch Year | 1999 |
| End of Production | 2005 |
| Number of Units | 822 |
| Length Overall | 10.35 m |
| Hull Length | 10.00 m |
| Waterline Length | 9.30 m |
| Beam | 3.45 m |
| Draft (Keel) | 1.60 m |
| Draft (Lifting Keel) | 0.90 m / 2.10 m |
| Light Displacement | 5,000 kg |
| Max Displacement | 6,800 kg |
| Hull Material | Polyester |
| Rigging | Fractional sloop |
| Mainsail Area | 24.5 m² |
| Genoa Area (140%) | 33.5 m² |
| Spinnaker Area | 79 m² |
| Engine | 18 hp (standard) / 29 hp (optional) |
| Fuel Capacity | 70 L |
| Fresh Water Capacity | 200 L |
| Battery Capacity | 2 x 70 Ah |
| Headroom | 2.00 m |
| Layout | 2 or 3 cabins, 1 bathroom |
| CE Category | A (offshore) / B (coastal) |
Conclusion
The Oceanis Clipper 331 remains a wise choice for sailors looking for a 10-meter sailboat that combines comfort, safety, and performance. Its commercial success and owner satisfaction make it a safe bet on the used boat market. Whether for family cruises, solo sailing, or outings with friends, it offers an excellent compromise for a wide range of uses.
If you are considering purchasing a Clipper 331, check the condition of the chainplates, rigging, and electronics, and consult owner forums for layout or maintenance advice.