The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 vs Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 comparison sits squarely in the category of decisions where specs alone won't tell the whole story — intended use, storage, and long-term ownership costs all factor in.
Size is the most obvious dividing line here. The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 measures 44,3 feet overall (2013), giving it roughly 11,9 additional feet of deck space compared to the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 at 32,4 feet (1997). Weight tells a clearer story for trailering families: the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 tips the scales at 8 047 lbs — 5 804 lbs less than the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 2 243 lbs. That difference is meaningful if you're working within a half-ton or three-quarter-ton truck's tow rating, especially once you factor in a motor, gear, and fuel.
The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 carries a rated maximum of 2 hp. Engine data for the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 wasn't available in our records — check the manufacturer's spec sheet before sizing a motor.Fuel capacity breaks the other way: the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 carries 106 gallons versus 19 gallons in the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997. On a lake day that's negligible, but for coastal cruising or long reservoir runs the extra range matters.
For family outings this is probably the sharpest distinction between the two. The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 is rated for 13 passengers, while the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 caps at 9. If you're regularly pulling extended family or a group of friends onto the water, the extra seats on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 could be the deciding factor.
The Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 has a documented displacement of 8 047 lbs. Displacement data wasn't available for the other boat in this comparison.
Sailboat comparisons often come down to details that specs don't fully capture — the quality of the standing rigging, the layout of the cockpit, and how the boat feels on a beat in 20 knots. A sea trial on both is strongly recommended.
For extended cruising, water capacity matters: the Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 carries 53 gallons versus 2 gallons on the Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 — a significant advantage on longer passages where watermaker or provisioning stops aren't guaranteed.
Bottom line: The Beneteau Gran Turismo 44 2013 at 44,3 ft offers more living space, greater range, and a more substantial offshore capability. The Beneteau Oceanis 311 1997 at 32,4 ft is the easier, lower-cost option — simpler to crew and a strong choice for coastal and day sailing.