Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311 – “Free Spirit” (2000)

A beautifully maintained and intelligently upgraded example of the ever-popular Beneteau Oceanis Clipper 311, Free Spirit offers the ideal balance of comfortable cruising, easy handling and impressive specification. Designed with practicality and performance in mind, this sought-after lifting keel version delivers exceptional versatility, equally at home exploring shallow estuaries or cruising further afield.

Lovingly cared for by her current owners, she has benefitted from extensive upgrades and maintenance over recent years including new Crusader sails, updated electronics, coppercoating, keel overhaul works and numerous mechanical improvements. With her spacious accommodation, excellent inventory and proven Beneteau pedigree, Free Spiritrepresents a fantastic opportunity for anyone seeking a capable family cruiser ready for immediate adventures.

At a Glance

• Builder: Beneteau


• Model: Oceanis Clipper 311


• Year: 2000


• LOA: 9.83m


• Beam: 3.23m


• Draft: 0.80m (lifting keel)


• Displacement: 3,650kg


• Engine: Volvo Penta 2020 18hp diesel


• Cabins: 2


• Berths: 6


• Location: Chichester, UK

Design & Lifestyle

The Oceanis Clipper 311 is renowned for combining practical cruising capability with a surprisingly spacious interior for her size. Below deck, Free Spirit offers warm timber joinery, generous headroom and an inviting saloon layout ideal for weekends away or extended coastal cruising.

Sleeping accommodation comprises two private cabins plus additional saloon berths, comfortably accommodating family and guests alike. The well-equipped galley includes a sink, hob, fridge and ample storage, while hot and cold water, Webasto heating and LED lighting ensure excellent onboard comfort in all seasons.

On deck, the cockpit is secure and sociable, featuring wheel steering, cockpit cushions, sprayhood and full cockpit enclosure — making her equally enjoyable underway or relaxing in the marina.

Performance & Handling

Powered by a reliable Volvo Penta 2020 diesel engine with shaft drive, Free Spirit cruises comfortably at approximately 6 knots and benefits from a bow thruster for easier close-quarters manoeuvring.

Her lifting keel configuration provides excellent flexibility, allowing access to shallower cruising grounds while still delivering reassuring sailing performance offshore. Self-tailing Lewmar winches, lines led aft and updated sail handling systems make her straightforward to sail short-handed.

Recent Upgrades & Highlights

Significant recent investment includes:

• Crusader fully battened mainsail (2022)


• Crusader furling genoa (2022)


• Lazy jacks and updated running rigging (2022)


• Coppercoat treatment (2022)


• Complete lifting keel overhaul with replacement parts (2022)


• Raymarine Element 9HV chartplotter


• Raymarine autopilot


• AIS-enabled plotter system


• Solar panel installation (2024)


• New house batteries (2023)


• Updated skin fittings and valves


• Refreshed cockpit upholstery


• New guardwires (2024)

Accommodation

• Two private cabins


• Six berths total


• Spacious saloon with folding table


• Chart table/navigation station


• Galley with hob, fridge and sink


• Separate heads compartment with Jabsco marine toilet


• Webasto heating


• Hanging lockers and excellent storage throughout

Navigation & Electronics

• Raymarine Element 9HV multifunction display


• Standard Horizon 7” plotter with AIS


• Raymarine autopilot


• Icom VHF


• B&G log/speed/depth/wind instrumentation


• Fusion Bluetooth stereo system


• Compass, clock and barometer

Summary

Free Spirit is a highly specified and exceptionally well-maintained Oceanis 311 that stands out for both condition and inventory. With her lifting keel versatility and substantial recent upgrades, she presents a compelling package for sailors seeking stress-free ownership and immediate cruising capability.