Brand new Elan 320

The yard has just released information about the Elan 320:

Looks like the changes are (among other things):

• Windows in the cabin sides
• Twin steering wheels
• The hatch looks a bit longer/different
• 6% lighter

http://www.elan-yachts.com/en/news/1369826547.html

Norwegian distributor continues with the Elan yard!

Breaking news: the Norwegian distributor Fjord Sail has now decided to continue the cooperation with the Elan yard. This is great news, and means the yard has listened to what this important distributor has had to say about the future direction of the Elan brand.

More information about the disagreements have now been disclosed, which is a great, transparent move:

• There are many differences between sailing in the mediterranean and sailing in northern Europe; most notably more wind north and less regatta participation in the south. This means these markets need to address different characteristics in terms of performance, comfort etc.
• Performance boats are also very suitable for cruising, which is what Elan should make
• The new Elan 400 is going to be made a lot lighter, with vacuum + vinylester. It will weigh less than 7000kg
• The yard is going to initate a yacht weight-reduction focus programme, which has been fundamental for the Norwegian distributor, also with support from Rob Humphreys
• The yard has agreed with its subcontractors to increase warranty coverage and length so they better correspond to Norwegian requirements

The distributor goes on to regret that this has been a time of uncertainty for Elan customers, but that the end result is a lot better, and that many new and exciting things are to come from the yard.

More information (Norwegian) from Seilmagasinet: http://www.seilmagasinet.no/id/40203.