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Sailboat Specifications

Southern Cross 31

Cutter · Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder

Designed by Thomas Gillmer · Built by C. E. Ryder · First built 1975

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LOA 34.50 ft  ·  Beam 9.50 ft  ·  Displacement 13,600.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 447.00 ft²  ·  Cutter  ·  Long Keel W/Trans. Hung Rudder
About the Southern Cross 31 Sailboat

Designed with serious offshore cruising in mind, the Southern Cross 31 has earned a loyal following among sailors who prioritize seaworthiness and dependability over flashy performance. Built by Pacifica Yachts during the 1970s and into the 1980s, this full-keel cutter-rigged sloop became a popular choice for bluewater adventurers seeking a capable, confidence-inspiring passage maker in a manageable package. The Southern Cross 31 reflects the design philosophy of its era, favoring a heavy, sturdy hull construction with a deep full keel that offers excellent directional stability and a forgiving motion in rough seas. These qualities make it particularly well suited to extended coastal cruising and offshore passages, where comfort and safety over long distances matter more than outright speed. The cutter rig provides versatile sail handling options, allowing the crew to balance the boat effectively across a wide range of wind conditions. For buyers researching an entry into bluewater sailing, the Southern Cross 31 represents a proven, unpretentious platform with a strong reputation for durability — a boat built to go places and come back safely.

Known Issues View all 8 issues →
High
The teak decks fitted on many Southern Cross 31s were fastened with screws through the fiberglass subdeck. Leaking fastener holes and deteriorated caulking allow water into the deck core, causing delamination and soft spots, especially around the cockpit and side decks.
High
The balsa-cored deck used in construction is prone to moisture intrusion around deck hardware penetrations. Probe all chainplate areas, stanchion bases, and winch pads for softness indicating wet or rotted core.
High
The long keel attachment on early boats used mild steel keel bolts that are prone to corrosion and are difficult to inspect without removing interior joinery. The bilge sump area should be closely inspected for rust staining and weeping around bolt heads, which can indicate advanced corrosion.
pre-1982 models
+ 5 more issues — see full list →
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 34.50 ft / 10.52 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 25.00 ft / 7.62 m
Beam 9.50 ft / 2.90 m
Max Draft 4.58 ft / 1.40 m
Displacement 13,600.00 lb / 6,169 kg
Ballast 4,400.00 lb / 1,996 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 447.00 ft² / 41.53 m²
Headroom 6.17 ft / 1.88 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long keel w/trans. hung rudder
Rigging Type Cutter
Construction FG
Designer Thomas Gillmer
Builder C. E. Ryder
First Built 1975
Related Sailboats Bristol 35 · Fantasia 35 Bingham · Fuji 35 · True North 34 · Ohlson 35
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Southern Cross 31's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Southern Cross 31 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 12.6. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Southern Cross 31's comfort ratio?

The Southern Cross 31 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 37.62. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Southern Cross 31 safe for offshore sailing?

The Southern Cross 31 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.59. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Southern Cross 31?

The theoretical hull speed of the Southern Cross 31 is 6.7 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Southern Cross 31 weigh?

The Southern Cross 31 has a displacement of 13,600.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 34.50 ft.

Who designed the Southern Cross 31?

The Southern Cross 31 was designed by Thomas Gillmer, first built in 1975.