Offshore 31 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

The Offshore 31's design lineage traces back to naval architect L. Francis Herreshoff, as it is based on the Bermuda 30, which itself derived from the venerable Herreshoff H-28 design.

The Cheoy Lee Offshore 31 began production in 1968. Its creation occurred during a pivotal era for Cheoy Lee Shipyard, which by the mid-1960s had increasingly focused on pleasure boat production, with a significant portion being exported, particularly to the United States. During this period, Cheoy Lee was at the forefront of marine construction, pioneering the extensive use of fiberglass (GRP) and foam sandwich technology, recognizing its benefits in strength, longevity, and weight savings. This manufacturing ethos is evident in the Offshore 31's solid fiberglass hull construction.

The design of the Offshore 31 notably features an extended counter and an inboard rudder, distinguishing it from its direct predecessor, the Bermuda 30. Throughout its production run, the Offshore 31 was offered with several rig configurations, providing versatility for different sailing preferences. These options included a standard masthead sloop, a sloop with a bowsprit for increased sail area forward, and a ketch rig, offering more divided sail plans for easier handling in varying conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 31 feet and a waterline length of 23.33 feet, the Offshore 31 is a heavy displacement vessel, reflecting its design as a sturdy cruiser. Its displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of approximately 376 confirms it as a heavy, traditional boat, suggesting a comfortable, steady motion through the water rather than high speeds. The sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/D) of 13.32 indicates that the Offshore 31 is not optimized for light-air performance; it is a boat that requires a decent breeze to get moving effectively. However, its ballast-to-displacement ratio of 35.51% provides a reasonable degree of stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a moderate amount of wind without excessive heeling.

Owners consistently praise the Cheoy Lee Offshore 31 for its docile and comfortable handling characteristics, especially in a seaway. Descriptions often highlight its "easy motion," which contributes to a more pleasant experience on offshore passages, even in rough conditions. It is generally regarded as a well-behaved and stable boat, capable of handling challenging seas with a smooth, predictable motion, akin to a larger, heavier vessel. The robust build of these boats from the late 1960s is often mentioned by owners, suggesting they are built "thick" and strong.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures vary among individual boats, the Cheoy Lee Offshore 31 typically offers a classic interior layout, prioritizing seakindliness and traditional cruising comfort. The interior often features a generous amount of warm, varnished teak trim, a hallmark of Cheoy Lee's earlier production, contributing to a rich, classic aesthetic.

The common interior arrangement usually includes a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head compartment. The main salon typically features opposing settees, which may convert into berths, and a fold-down or fixed table. The galley is usually located to port or starboard, often featuring a small sink, stove, and icebox, designed for practical use at sea. A quarter berth or additional storage may be found aft. While the emphasis is on functionality and traditional aesthetics, storage is generally adequate for extended cruising. Ventilation, especially in older models, relies on traditional dorade vents and opening ports, which can vary in effectiveness depending on their condition.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Offshore 31 frequently laud its solid construction and seaworthiness as primary strengths. They are often described as capable offshore cruisers that inspire confidence in adverse conditions, thanks to their heavy displacement and full-keel design. The boat's traditional aesthetics and the extensive use of teak are also commonly appreciated for their classic appeal. Many owners highlight the vessel's "easy motion," which contributes significantly to comfort during extended passages. The Cheoy Lee Offshore 31 is often considered a good value for those seeking a robust and attractive cruising sailboat.

However, there are recurring points that prospective owners should consider. A common maintenance concern, often associated with Cheoy Lee vessels of this era, is the extensive exterior teak work. While beautiful, if not regularly maintained by previous owners, it can become a significant project requiring considerable time and effort for restoration and ongoing care. Furthermore, some Cheoy Lee models from this period earned the affectionate but telling nickname "Cheoy Leaky" due to a propensity for original deck fittings to develop leaks over time, necessitating re-bedding of hardware to ensure watertight integrity. Despite these potential maintenance items, the underlying robust hull construction is consistently praised.