Beneteau 331 vs Beneteau Oceanis 281
How do the Beneteau 331 and Beneteau Oceanis 281 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Beneteau 331 
Beneteau Oceanis 281 | Beneteau 331 | Beneteau Oceanis 281 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 33.9 ft10.34 m | 28.5 ft8.69 m |
| Waterline length | 30.5 ft9.30 m | 24.5 ft7.47 m |
| Beam | 11.3 ft3.45 m | 9.4 ft2.87 m |
| Draft | 5.5 ft1.68 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 11,173 lb5,068 kg | 5,732 lb2,600 kg |
| Ballast | 3,253 lb1,476 kg | 1,676 lb760 kg |
| Sail area | 500 ft²46.5 m² | 335 ft²31.1 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.01 | 16.74 |
| Displacement / Length | 176 | 174 |
| Comfort ratio | 21.6 | 17.4 |
| Capsize screening | 2.03 | 2.11 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 7.4 | 6.6 |
Beneteau 331 vs Beneteau Oceanis 281: the short version
- The Beneteau 331 is the larger boat at 33.9 ft10.34 m LOA versus 28.5 ft8.69 m for the Beneteau Oceanis 281.
- The Beneteau 331 is heavier, displacing about 95% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Beneteau Oceanis 281 carries the more powerful rig (16.7 vs 16.0), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Beneteau 331 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Beneteau 331 rates better for offshore work (2.03 vs 2.11).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.