Oceanis 511 Review – Specs, Features, and Performance

Choose the Oceanis 511 for long passages and generous living space you can enjoy when you own the boat or plan to own a family cruiser. The cockpit is cleared and walkable, and the deck areas are laid out for easy movement even when the boat heels. If you owned or plan to own a family cruiser, this model provides a balanced mix of self-sufficiency and social space, with a house-like feel in the main saloon and galley.

Specifications at a glance: length overall around 15.5–15.9 m, beam 4.7–4.9 m, draft 2.2–2.5 m depending on keel, displacement about 12.5–13.5 t, ballast 3.9–4.2 t. Engine options include Volvo Penta 75–110 hp; fuel tank ~200 L; fresh water ~600 L. Sail plan delivers total area ~110–125 m2 with mainsail and genoa, giving confident motoring and efficient upwind performance for boats of this size.

The interior emphasizes generous headroom and natural light; the cockpit and galley are positioned for social interaction, so crew can stay engaged while cooking. The cockpit layout supports easy line handling and safe movement to the stern. The knife-sharp organization of lockers keeps spares and tools accessible, while areas around the saloon provide built-in storage. For niña-conscious design, the house vibe comes from a large U‑shaped dinette and a straightforward wiring run to the mast base.

Performance notes: rolling seas are handled with predictable stability, and at wind speeds around 12–18 knots you can expect 7–9 knots under reefed mainsail; with a full sail plan you’ll approach 9–11 knots under good breeze. Short-handed sailing is comfortable thanks to easy engine access and a cockpit that remains well cleared of clutter. Maintenance is straightforward due to modular components and a network of spares; many owners who lived aboard decided to customize the spaces for human-scale comfort and easy reach of controls. And while you may upgrade electronics later, the stock setup provides robust navigation and anchoring options, delivering a round, predictable feel on deck.

Cuba Sailing Plan with Oceanis 511: Itineraries, Tips, and Yacht Options

Recommendation: plan a 12–14 day north‑coast loop with Havana as your hub, using short hops between places and overnighting in protected marinas. Enquire about current permits and regulations before you sail, thats essential to stay legally compliant and to avoid delays that wouldve disrupted your schedule.

Itinerary A – North Coast Loop (8–12 days): start in Havana (Marina Hemingway) and cruise toward Varadero for a couple of nights, then swing east to sheltered bays near Cayo Santa María and Jardines del Rey for short day hops. Days include plenty of short passages, an eventful visit to local markets, and an overnight in a marina each time you grab a slip. Return to Havana along the same corridor, visiting places you read about in cruising guides and talking to local skippers for weather and tides.

Itinerary B – Southern Pivot (10–14 days): begin in Havana, then head south toward Cienfuegos and Trinidad for a couple of nights each, exploring theBay of Pigs area’s calm anchorages and historic sites. This route adds a leg that goes through a different set of places, giving your Oceanis 511 a varied point of reference for wind angles and current shifts. After several overnights, loop back along the central shelf and finish back in Havana, where you can visit museums and sample beachfront seafood before clearing out.

Yacht options for this plan: consider a well‑maintained Oceanis 511 with a robust diesel system, reliable filters, and easy access to spare parts. If you’re provisioning offshore, verify that the vessel has ample tankage and a clean water setup; bring spare adaptors and a compact power board to handle 110/220‑V outlets at different marinas. If the boat lacks a dedicated watermaker, plan shorter legs and use replenishment points frequently; otherwise you’ll be scrambling for water during a long day sail. Finally, check that the sails and lines are in good shape, and carry a spare halyard and a backup mainsheet to stay flexible when winds shift.

Practical tips for the plan: carry a compact diesel‑engine checklist, including fuel‑line hoses, glow plugs, and filters, so you can run the engine for safety checks and charging. The Cuba coastline offers beautiful places to visit, yet supplies can be scarce outside major ports, so stock up on basics before leaving Havana; then you can avoid last‑minute runs to crowded stores. Keep a simple process for records: write down hours, fuel, and water usage each day, and note any irregularities in electricity availability at marinas. If you encounter a policy that seems illegal or unclear, ask a local agent to clarify and enquired through official channels–best practice is to avoid taking risks that could impact your trip.

Crew readiness and planning steps: appoint a navigator who can monitor weather patterns and currents, set up a daily plan with short hops, and review the route before dawn; that keeps your schedule tight and enjoyable. If you’re visiting a festival or local event, plan flexible days to stay near shore and enjoy the culture without rushing. Reading forecast notes and marina bulletins each morning helps you adjust the route, and you’ll feel more confident when you reach each point on the map. Even if winds shift, a calm coastline and careful provisioning make the trip smooth, and your vessel stays ready for the next leg.

Logistics checklist: bring sturdy adaptors, spare diesel filters, battery charge controllers, and a reliable handheld VHF; these items reduce delays and keep you connected at anchor. Pack a lightweight generator or inverter for electricity during longer stays, but respect marina rules and limits. If you plan an overnight stop, confirm berth availability the day before and have a backup anchorage in mind. And when it comes to legality, always operate within the permit framework and call ahead to confirm which ports accept visiting yachts; then your plan stays clean and compliant.

Key Oceanis 511 specs: hull, rig, sail area, and ballast

Recommendation: opt for the deep-keel Oceanis 511 for week-long charters in gulf waters; the hull is fifteen meters long with a beam near 4.8 meters, delivering steady tracking and ample interior space. A ballast of about 3,600 kg yields a solid righting moment, and the base configuration provides reliable performance across different wind ranges.

Hull and ballast details: the hull’s form minimizes drag on long passages, and the displacement sits around 12,000–12,500 kg. With 3,600 kg of ballast, the ballast-to-displacement ratio sits near 30 percent, contributing to confidence when headed into chop. Keel options include a standard draft around 2.25 m and a deeper keel around 2.63 m to suit different basins and cruising areas.

Rig and sail area: the Oceanis 511 uses a modern sloop configuration, typically with a mast height of about 21.5 m above the waterline. Main sail measures roughly 60 m2 while the headsail sits near 40–45 m2; total sail area sits around 100–105 m2. You can increase area with a genoa or an optional cruising sail for light-wind days on larger trips in bays or gulf waters.

Performance notes: in moderate seas, the combination of hull efficiency and balanced rig yields a steady pace with controlled heel. In stronger winds, the higher ballast helps keep the bow down and maintain upwind pointing ability; this is the key factor when headed toward a challenging leg of your itinerary.

Operational tips: plan your next charter with realistic legs and anchorages in calm areas, and carry a spare cord for charging devices at sea. In ports near locals or authorities, you’ll hear steady praise for its reliability; locals spoke of its ease of handling during week-long trips, and names of favorite marinas are easy to confirm with harbor authorities. If someone hails you from a dock, respond clearly, then line up the next approach and show your readiness to move on. You asked what to bring, and the answer is simple: keep the base systems robust, ensure the motor is ready for short hops, and keep the crew prepared for a fifteen-meter day’s work aboard them.

Performance and comfort: handling, speed, and onboard systems

Test the helm responsiveness at 8–9 knots with the wheel centered and a steady hand; if the rudder responds with more than 2° of turn or the boat heels noticeably, adjust the hydraulic ram preload or inspect the rudder bearings as part of maintenance.

Handling and steering: The Oceanis 511 uses a balanced hull with twin rudders that deliver stable tracking on all headings. In a beam reach with 16–22 knots true wind, keep the course with light pressure and trim the genoa; reef early, then let the mainsheet and traveler do the work so the boat feels composed on tacks. The result is that you can drive confidently, whether you’re a captain or a crew member learning the ropes.

Speed and efficiency: Plan for 6.5–7.5 knots under sail in 16–22 knots, with bursts to about 9 knots in gusts. Under power, 6–7 knots at roughly 2,800 rpm yields a practical range of 150–180 NM on a full 210 L tank; in calm conditions you can still move 4–5 knots if needed, which helps when you’re headed for a marina break or a scheduled engine check.

Onboard systems and comfort: The boat pairs a solid 12V house bank with shore power and options for solar 200–400W. The galley carries a coffee maker; the navigation suite includes a chartplotter, autopilot, and VHF, with a watermaker available as an option. A broad swimming platform and an ergonomic deck layout keep movement easy, and the salon remains bright and well ventilated. Thats a final mix that many owners love for long days on deck and evenings in the cockpit after a day of sailing.

Practical notes and anecdotes: During a dock test in petersburg, participants evaluated line handling while the sound of music drifted from a portable speaker and the smell of salt air and coffee filled the air. karen logged that the cockpit feels forgiving under load, sanger kept a tight repair log, and the captain ran a quick tools-and-parts drill to demonstrate a minor engine fault repair. Authorities checked paperwork quickly, and the group discussed spending on maintenance as an investment that pays off over years; thats precisely why the team headed toward the platform for a swim, inspected the plumbing, and confirmed the ease of scrubbing salt from deck hardware. If you’re planning routes that head toward cubans ports, the crew noted that you’ll need to account for provisioning, fuel planning, and potential port formalities. Handling this way, onto longer cruises, keeps the crew coordinated and confident after each sea trial.

Final tips: Whether you’re new to cruising or revisiting a years-long love of the sea, keep a compact repair kit, spare parts, and basic tools onboard. Prior maintenance intervals and a well-documented log help authorities and port officials, and they reduce surprises when you’re heading into unfamiliar waters. The Oceanis 511 provides solid performance and comfort that many crews, including those who love to explore with friends and family, will appreciate for years to come.

Cuba cruising basics: ports, permits, routes, and safety considerations

Start by securing the cruising permit and carta navigation well ahead of time–six to eight weeks is practical–so you avoid delays at the dock and have a clear plan for the process. Prepare the vessel documents, a crew list, adequate insurance, and a detailed sailing plan that your captain signs off. Keep a digital and a printed copy of all paperwork and be ready to present them at the first marina desk.

On the northern coast, plan a focused loop that includes Havana’s Marinа Hemingway area as a first stop, then Matanzas and Varadero before heading east toward Cienfuegos and, if conditions allow, the Santiago de Cuba coast. Choose protected harbors for overnight stays and look for marinas with reliable electricity, diesel, and water supplies. In most ports you’ll find nearby local crew who can offer fresh insights, but verify hours and locks before you arrive to avoid a long wait.

Typical day hops run around fifteen nautical miles, though you can stretch to twenty with favorable winds. Map out a few backup legs in case a front moves south. Keep a steady lookout for light signals at night and busy traffic near regatta events–these hulls and sails can change the flow quickly, requiring quick vse adjustments on deck and inside the cabin.

Safety matters include watching for sudden squalls and unpredictable seas, especially when sailing along exposed stretches. Batten down hatches during unsettled weather, maintain a secure deck, and keep lifelines clear. Before venturing offshore, confirm weather windows with a reliable source and avoid overnight passages if the forecast shows strengthening winds or rough seas.

Permits and paperwork hinge on clear communication with local authorities. The carta and the navigation permit are not optional–they establish your sailing area and permitted ports. Have a local agent or a trusted contact help you with the filing and confirm the required filters for fuel and water supplies at each marina. The pronte support from marina staff can speed up dockage, but always verify that your arrival slots are confirmed before tying up your stern or bow.

Energy planning matters where charging can be intermittent. Stock diesel and plan refueling stops at official docks; supplement with solar or a portable generator if possible. In marinas, grab fresh water and check that the power outlet matches your plug before plugging in. If your boat relies on electric systems, carry spare fuses and robust charging options so you don’t lose critical systems overnight.

Communication stays simple: use VHF for port calls and harbor masters, carry updated carta details, and carry paper charts as a backup. Look for nearby harbormaster offices to confirm dock availability, wait times, and any local restrictions–these checks save you from unexpected holds. If you encounter a niña or a young harbor guide offering tips, thank them and verify the advice with the captain and the local staff before acting on it.

When you arrive, you may grab a quick coffee or light meal at the marina cafe, then run through the safety checklist with the crew. If a routine regatta happens nearby, adjust your plan to avoid crowded channels and congested mooring fields. Stay flexible, keep your crew informed, and respect local customs and regulations to keep everything running smoothly for the duration of your sailing.

Captain Stacey Brooks and Sea Dog Sailing: Cuba itineraries and insights

Begin with a seven‑day Havana-based loop that these stops anchor the plan: Varadero, Cienfuegos, Trinidad, and Santa Lucía/Cayo Santa María, returning to Havana. Leg lengths stay within 25–45 nautical miles, typically 4–6 hours under sail, with wind mainly from the NE to east. This approach offers solid protection behind seawalls and piers, reduces seasick risk, and gives your crew time for shore exploration between sails. To keep the plan tight, coordinate with Cuban authorities well in advance, carry a full safety inventory, and ensure the ship’s electrical system can run essential gear–these steps prevent delays and keep the voyage impeccably smooth. These guidelines come from Captain Stacey Brooks, who has directed dozens of cruises along these routes over the years and understands how weather and approvals shape each day on the water.

• Varadero – anchor in a protected pocket near the peninsula, use a generator or solar setup to provide electricity for the fridge and electronics, and enjoy snorkeling along nearby reefs. These calmer conditions help crews new to offshore sailing settle in without feeling overwhelmed, and cubans along the coast are generally welcoming when you arrive prepared.
• Cienfuegos – a practical provisioning stop with reliable fuel and fresh produce options. Plan a full shore visit to the Palacio de Valle and the malecon walk, then return to the ship before sunset to avoid crowds and to keep the crew focused on the next leg.
• Trinidad – anchor near Playa Ancon to minimize rolling, and take a guided tour to the colonial center. The between‑port rhythm here is slower, which helps the younger crew members adjust to the cadence of a cruising day and keeps seasick risk low when you’re heading offshore again.
• Santa Lucía / Cayo Santa María area – diving or snorkeling in clear, calm lagoons; plan a long, open-water leg back to the north coast only if conditions stay favorable. Maintain an impeccable inventory of safety gear and a backup plan in case winds shift unexpectedly.

Practical considerations from these Cuba itineraries emphasize preparation: file the cruising permit well ahead, keep communication lines open with authorities, and have a clear plan for weather windows. If a day looks uncertain, there’s no shame in delaying the next leg and waiting for a calmer period–perhaps a better choice than pushing through rolling seas. A strong focus on electricity backups–solar, battery banks, and a reliable generator–ensures the full, consistent comfort onboard, even when shore visits stretch the schedule. These details reflect the approach these crews have used for years, with safety and enjoyment staying front and center under Captain Brooks’s direction.

These routes also balance time between experienced yachting crews and newcomers: the cruising window stays generous enough to learn, yet compact enough to keep momentum. The wind profiles during the peak season favor smooth passages, reducing the risk of seasick days and making it easier for a young crew to gain confidence under sail. If you’re asked to choose between two options, choose the loop that minimizes long open-water crossings and maximizes time in protected harbors; it tends to yield fewer up‑and‑down weather surprises and more consistent progress. Thank you for considering Sea Dog Sailing’s Cuba itineraries–they’re designed to be practical, enjoyable, and a little adventurous, with an eye toward safety and a memorable experience on the water.

Charter options and yacht alternatives for Cuba cruises (CNB 93 2001; Eleuthera 60 2002; Lavezzi 40 2005; Lagoon 380 2005; Leopard 44 2015)

Recommendation: Lagoon 380 2005 is the most versatile choice for Cuba cruises, offering strong social spaces, easy handling, and reliable engines that perform well in the Gulf winds. Its footprint suits a mid-sized group for arrival in Havana or Varadero, with comfortable seating aboard and a good balance between time ashore and time at sea. There, you can plan events on calm days and still stay responsive to weather; everything about the layout supports a smooth flow from the cockpit to the saloon, beside the galley, and toward the cabins.

CNB 93 2001 shines when you need precise handling and solid performance for longer hops between Cuban areas. The engines provide steady power in light and moderate winds, and the middle deck layout keeps the crew and guests connected without crowding. Inventory management matters here: bring spare filters and common tools, keep panels and switches clearly labeled, and map the most efficient routes between key ports there on the gulf coast. The crew must stay on top of government and port procedures to avoid delays for arrivals and departures.

Eleuthera 60 2002 adds generous living space and accoglienza aboard, with more cabins and a refined layout that suits larger groups or families. It handles well in calmer mornings and provides ample shade for days spent near popular Cuban bays. Its engines give consistent performance for both sailing legs and gentle motor legs when winds drop, and the extra interior time helps guests count on good times ashore and aboard as events unfold.

Lavezzi 40 2005 stands out for compact efficiency and nimble handling in closer-to-shore cruising along the Cuban coastline. It suits a couple or a small crew who want lower operating costs without sacrificing comfort. The panels and the inventory are streamlined, making it simpler to manage fuel, water, and spare parts. Jackets come in handy for early-morning departures and chilly nights beside the bow, and there’s good visibility from the helm for safer navigation along busy areas near the government ports.

Leopard 44 2015 delivers stability and a spacious, modern layout ideal for larger groups. Its twin hulls provide solid platform performance, good offshore potential, and ample social areas for gatherings aboard. Winds around the gulf rarely stay uniform, but this catamaran keeps everyone aboard feeling secure, with a flexible cockpit, a broad aft deck, and practical access to shore-side accoglienza. There, the crew can manage a longer schedule with more time for cultural visits, markets, and local tours that attract народу without overwhelming the boat’s inventory.