Southern Cross 31 Information, Review, Specs

C. E. Ryder, operating from 1976 to 1990, gained a reputation for producing hardy, well-regarded fiberglass sailboats, including the Southern Cross line. Their manufacturing ethos centered on dependable design and solid construction, ensuring vessels that would stand the test of time and perform reliably in various conditions. The Southern Cross 31 perfectly exemplifies this commitment, appealing to bluewater cruisers who value peace of mind in challenging seas.

History and Design

The Southern Cross 31 entered production in 1975, designed by Thomas Gillmer, a respected naval architect and professor at the US Naval Academy, who also designed the iconic Allied Seawind and Blue Moon. Gillmer's design philosophy explicitly focused on creating boats that were "safe and comfortable at sea," rather than prioritizing speed. This ethos is evident in the Southern Cross 31's full keel, a design choice that contributes significantly to its stability and tracking abilities offshore. The boat was built by C. E. Ryder, a company that became synonymous with robust fiberglass construction during its tenure. Production of the Southern Cross 31 continued until 1987, with approximately 150 hulls built.

Gillmer's approach to the Southern Cross 31 was to refine the traditional Colin Archer type, incorporating a balanced and springy sheer line and flattening the buttocks for improved performance. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented, the Southern Cross 31 was consistently built as a cutter-rigged vessel, a configuration well-suited for offshore sailing due to its versatility in sail handling and ability to balance the boat in varying wind conditions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Southern Cross 31's design metrics clearly position it as a heavy, stable cruiser rather than a light-air racer. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 388, it falls squarely into the heavy displacement category, indicating a substantial and robust vessel designed to handle challenging conditions. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 14.0 suggests that while it is not optimized for blistering speed in light winds, it will carry its sail well in moderate to strong breezes without being excessively tender. This is further supported by a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 0.32, providing a decent level of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a blow.

Owners and reviewers frequently note that the Southern Cross 31 is not a fast or agile boat but is remarkably stable and comfortable in rough seas. Its full keel provides excellent directional stability, allowing the boat to track well and maintain its course with minimal effort, a highly desirable trait for offshore passages. The transom-hung rudder contributes to a well-balanced helm, and the boat generally responds predictably to the tiller. While it might be "painfully slow" in light air, particularly below 15 knots, it excels when the wind picks up, making it a reliable performer in more challenging conditions. The cutter rig further enhances its sailing versatility, allowing for easy adjustment of sail area.

Accommodations and Layout

The Southern Cross 31 offers a spacious interior for a boat of its size, designed with cruising comfort in mind. The maximum headroom of 6.17 feet provides ample standing room for most individuals. There were typically two interior layout options available, catering to different cruising preferences.

Commonly, the interior features a V-berth forward, which serves as the primary sleeping cabin. A head compartment is usually located just aft of the V-berth. The main salon typically includes settees to port and starboard, often convertible into additional berths, surrounding a dinette table. The galley is generally positioned towards the aft of the salon, often along one side, equipped with basic cruising amenities. Storage is ample, often including cedar clothes closets and shelves. The finish quality generally features attractive wood trim, such as teak and ash, creating a warm and traditional ambiance. While specific details on ventilation require individual boat inspection, the focus on comfortable cruising suggests adequate provisions for airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Southern Cross 31 consistently praise its solid construction and seaworthiness, emphasizing its capability as a genuine bluewater cruiser. Many appreciate the peace of mind offered by its robust build, including a fiberglass cored hull, with some reports noting its ability to handle demanding voyages, including circumnavigations. The double-ended design and full keel are often highlighted as key attributes contributing to its comfortable motion in a seaway and excellent tracking ability.

However, the boat's design, which prioritizes stability and ruggedness, means that speed is not its strongest suit. Owners often acknowledge that it is a "slow boat," particularly in light wind conditions, which can be a consideration for those sailing in areas with frequent calm. While generally well-regarded, common maintenance issues typical of older fiberglass boats can arise, such as the need for re-bedding original deck fittings to address leaks. Some models may have been owner-finished, leading to variations in interior quality and outfitting. Despite these potential considerations, the Southern Cross 31 retains a devoted owner base and a solid reputation, testament to its enduring design and build quality.