Carmen 31 Information, Review, Specs

The Carmen 31 commenced production in 1961 under the craftsmanship of Swanson Brothers, though some were also built by Swarbrick & Swarbrick. During this era, the Swanson Brothers were prominent as skilled timber boat builders, a testament to their dedication to traditional methods even as fiberglass gained traction in Australian yacht construction. Ron Swanson, the principal designer, played a pivotal role in shaping the company's identity, which became synonymous with "sturdy, canoe-sterned cruising yachts" known for their "solid construction" and "true bluewater capability."

The design philosophy behind the Carmen 31, as with many of Ron Swanson's creations, emphasized balanced hull design and seaworthiness. It was conceived as a medium displacement yacht, built with a robust, if "spartan," approach to construction. While the Swanson Brothers later transitioned to fiberglass for some models, the Carmen 31, as described by its specifications, was a timber vessel with a wooden hull and deck, reflecting the builder's deep expertise in this material. The enduring nature of these yachts speaks to the quality of their original construction.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 31.0 feet and a waterline length of 24.5 feet, the Carmen 31 is characterized by a moderate displacement for its size. Its Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 264.10, suggests a heavier, more traditional cruiser rather than a light, pure-bred racer. This contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, a hallmark of Swanson designs intended for offshore sailing.

The Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.39 indicates a moderate sail plan for its weight. While not designed for extreme light-air performance, this ratio suggests a balanced setup that provides respectable speeds in a range of conditions without being excessively overpowered in stronger winds. The Carmen 31's long keel design, as specified, is a key factor in its sailing characteristics, offering excellent directional stability and a smooth ride, particularly in rougher conditions. This keel type also houses the yacht's ballast within its overall structure, contributing significantly to its stiffness and ability to stand up to a breeze. Owners looking for a long-keeled vessel often consider the timber Carmen 31 a sound choice for its sailing qualities.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Carmen 31 is generally described as functional and "spartan", reflecting its focus on offshore capability and robust construction over opulent amenities. Given its timber construction, the interior would typically feature wood trim and joinery, providing a classic and warm aesthetic common in yachts of its era.

While specific detailed layouts vary between individual boats and customisations, a traditional arrangement for a 31-foot monohull of this design would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and a navigation station. A head would typically be situated forward or amidships. The emphasis would be on maximizing usable space and providing robust, sea-kindly arrangements suitable for extended cruising, consistent with the Swanson Brothers' reputation for building bluewater vessels. Limited information suggests that some GRP versions of the Carmen 31 might have featured a longer trunk cabin extending forward of the mast, potentially influencing interior volume, but specific details on the standard timber model's headroom and precise layout are not widely documented.