Pandora 700 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Pandora 700's lineage traces back to the earlier Pandora International, with the 700 model reflecting an updated design and a new length of 7.01 meters (23 feet). Its production run, spanning from 1976 until Rydgeway Marine's closure in 1991, highlights its sustained popularity and the builder's commitment to the model. Rydgeway Marine Ltd., founded in 1968 by Gordon Harris and Kevin Taylor, embraced fiberglass technology to produce accessible and capable sailing yachts for the growing leisure marine market. Their manufacturing ethos focused on consistent construction and reduced maintenance, qualities evident in the Pandora 700. The company, operating from Oulton Broad, Suffolk, became known for its GRP "river sailers" suited for British waterways.

E.G. Van de Stadt, the designer, was celebrated for his intelligent use of space, robust construction, and seaworthy performance, characteristics clearly incorporated into the Pandora series. The Pandora 700 was offered with several keel options, including a fin keel, twin/bilge keel, and a keel/centerboard, catering to diverse sailing grounds and preferences. The design featured a modified stern with a retroussé transom and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to its handling characteristics.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Pandora 700 is recognized for its capable and predictable handling, performing well in both light breezes and stronger winds. With a calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 14.8, the Pandora 700 is moderately powered, suggesting a balanced approach to performance that prioritizes ease of handling and comfort over outright speed in very light air. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.39 indicates a respectable degree of stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze. The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 379 signifies a relatively heavy boat for its waterline length, contributing to a comfortable motion in a chop, typical of a traditional cruiser.

Owners frequently praise the Pandora 700 as a very capable little yacht, described as both fast and sea-kindly. Its predictable handling makes it easy to balance, providing a rewarding sailing experience that is equally suited for casual family cruising or competitive club racing.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Pandora 700 offers a surprisingly roomy and functional interior. The cabin features an original gelcoat finish throughout. The layout is often described as an open-plan design with four berths, typically including a V-berth forward that can convert to a double with an infill, a single settee berth, and a single quarter berth.

The interior aims for a light, airy, yet warm and inviting atmosphere. A notable feature is the "multi-purpose interior layout" with a slide-away galley, designed for efficient use of space. The galley typically includes a GRP moulded sink with a manual hand-pumped cold water supply and space for a stove. When not in use, the galley, complete with its table, can be stowed neatly at the foot of the port berth beneath the cockpit seat. The forecabin usually houses the toilet. While headroom is modest, at approximately 54 inches, the efficient layout and thoughtful design contribute to a comfortable feel for a boat of this size.

Owner's Perspectives

The Pandora 700 maintains a strong and active owner community, highlighted by the existence of the Pandora Boat Owner Association. Owners consistently commend the boat's solid construction and its ability to sail well across a range of conditions. Many appreciate its predictable handling and seaworthiness, which instills confidence in various sea states. The boat's capacity for both racing and comfortable cruising is a frequently cited strength, appealing to a diverse group of sailors. The enduring quality of Rydgeway Marine's GRP construction means that many Pandora 700s are still actively sailed today and remain sought-after on the used boat market.