Bavaria 31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Bavaria 31 entered production in 1999, continuing until 2001. During this period, Bavaria Yachts, founded by Winfried Herrmann and Josef Meltl, was solidifying its position as a leader in efficient, assembly-line yacht manufacturing. J&J Design approached the Bavaria 31 with the goal of creating a "standard cruising boat with modest performance" that met the practical demands and expectations of modern cruising sailors. This design philosophy aligned perfectly with Bavaria's commitment to "German engineering expertise, precision, and quality," focusing on a balance between practical functionality, comfortable living spaces, and reliable performance. While the initial 31-foot model adhered to these principles, it is worth noting that Bavaria introduced a significantly "new and improved" 31-footer around 2007, featuring a new hull design, redesigned interior, and modified deck layout, demonstrating the shipyard's policy of continuous refinement. However, the 1999-2001 model remains a distinct example of its era's design and manufacturing standards.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 32.75 feet and a waterline length of 27.0 feet, the Bavaria 31 demonstrates characteristics well-suited for a coastal cruiser. Its design ratios provide insight into its performance profile. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) stands at 22.04, suggesting that the Bavaria 31 is a relatively high performer for a cruising boat, capable of moving well in lighter air conditions.

When examining its stability, the Ballast to Displacement ratio is approximately 0.30 (2425 lbs ballast / 7937 lbs displacement). While this indicates a moderate level of stiffness, the boat is generally considered stable and well-balanced. The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) is around 220 (7937 lbs displacement / (27.0 ft LWL)^3 * 0.0055), placing it in the moderate displacement category. This suggests a boat that is neither excessively heavy nor overly light, striking a balance between comfortable motion and reasonable speed. Anecdotal evidence from sea trials indicates the Bavaria 31 performs well in gusts, maintaining a stiff and well-balanced feel. It is capable of tracking along easily at speeds of 6-7 knots, showcasing its efficiency as a cruising vessel. Its theoretical hull speed is calculated at 6.96 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bavaria 31, while adhering to the typical layouts of its time, prioritized functionality and comfort for its size. It generally features a two-cabin layout, complemented by a saloon that could offer additional berths, allowing the boat to accommodate up to six people for day sailing and typically four in private cabins for overnight stays. The interior finish in the original models often utilized deep red mahogany, which, while providing a good quality feel, could make the interior appear somewhat dark.

Despite its compact size, the Bavaria 31 includes a dedicated head compartment. While specific storage details are limited, some owners have noted that stowage space could be less plentiful than desired. However, the practical cockpit is spacious for a boat of this size, offering a large sail locker for equipment storage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bavaria 31 frequently praise its solid construction and its agreeable handling characteristics, describing it as an easy-to-handle vessel. The boat's reliability has also made it a popular choice for charter fleets, a testament to its enduring design.

However, like many boats of its vintage, some recurring issues have been noted by the owner community. Leaks, particularly around deck fittings, appear to be a common concern for Bavaria models of this era, which can be challenging to trace and rectify. Some reports have also mentioned potential issues with the iron keels and osmosis, which are considerations for maintenance on older models. Despite these potential maintenance points, the Bavaria 31 maintains a dedicated owner community, often referred to as the "Bavaria Family," valuing the brand's commitment to quality and user-friendly designs.