Moody S31 Information, Review, Specs

The Moody S31 was in production from 1994 to 1998, continuing Moody's legacy of building robust and comfortable cruising yachts. At this time, Moody Yachts, historically A. H. Moody & Sons, had a long-standing reputation for prioritizing durability and craftsmanship, having transitioned from traditional timber construction to GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) for greater production efficiency. Bill Dixon, a key designer for Moody in the later fiberglass era, aimed for better sailing performance with the S31, while maintaining the volume, comfort, and offshore capability for which Moody yachts are known. The S31, like many of Dixon's designs for Moody, focused on appealing to cruising sailors who valued reliability and liveability. During its production run, the Moody S31 was offered with two distinct rig options: a masthead rig and a fractional rig, the latter appealing more to owners with racing aspirations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Moody S31 strikes a commendable balance between cruising comfort and sailing capability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.03, the S31 is indicative of a more conservative cruiser, suggesting reliable performance, particularly in moderate to heavy air. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.34, combined with a twin keel option available on some models, contributes to a stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up to a good breeze. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of roughly 254 classifies the S31 as a medium-heavy displacement cruiser, reinforcing its reputation for comfortable motion in a seaway rather than light-air racing prowess.

Despite these metrics, the S31 is widely regarded by owners and reviewers as a boat that "sails well" and offers "fine sailing performance" for its size. It is noted for good all-round performance, including respectable windward ability. Its handling characteristics are frequently praised; many owners find it easy to manage under both sail and power, even when single-handed. A significant design feature contributing to ease of handling and safety is the routing of all lines back to the cockpit.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Moody S31 is a standout feature, offering remarkably good accommodation for a yacht of just over 31 feet. Reviewers and owners frequently praise its interior layout, which provides a sense of lightness and roominess, often cited as an improvement over earlier Moody 31 models. The general finish quality is considered excellent, with joinery and upholstery typically in very good condition, featuring teak-style saloon flooring.

The standard layout generally includes a comfortable saloon with seating to both port and starboard, creating an inviting living area. Forward, there is a double V-berth cabin. A significant highlight is the spacious aft cabin, often described as very accommodating and capable of sleeping a large crew or providing a luxurious owner's retreat with full standing headroom at the entrance. The galley and head are typically well-appointed and practical for cruising. Access to essential components like keel bolts and bilges is thoughtfully incorporated within the saloon flooring.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Moody S31 consistently express high satisfaction with their vessels, frequently describing them as "super boats" that are "well designed & well built." A recurring theme among owner feedback is the boat's excellent value for money and its ability to retain value, with some owners reporting selling their S31 for the same price they paid after several years of ownership. The generous accommodation, particularly the spacious aft cabin, is a common point of praise.

While the S31 is generally considered a solid and reliable boat, some common maintenance considerations have been noted. Owners should be aware that the mild steel keel bolts and plates, typical for boats of this era, can be prone to rust if seawater is allowed to accumulate in the bilge. Routine checks of wear-and-tear items such as rudder stock and bearings are advised, although actual replacements of these specific components are reported to be rare. The Saildrive unit, powered by a Volvo Penta MD2020 engine, is generally considered economical to run, and its reliability is dependent on consistent maintenance.