Beason 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Beason 31 is characterized by its high ballast ratio, with approximately 42% of its 4,500kg displacement concentrated in its fin keel. This configuration provides significant righting moment, making the boat notably stiff and capable of carrying full sail well into a freshening breeze. Under sail, the masthead sloop rig is easily managed, though the boat truly finds its rhythm when beating to windward. Technical evaluations from the era suggest the hull tracks exceptionally well, a trait attributed to the relatively long fin keel and the skeg-protected rudder, which provides a level of directional stability and helm protection often missing in more modern, spade-rudder designs.

While not a lightweight "surfer," the Beason 31 possesses a respectable sail area-to-displacement ratio for a heavy-displacement cruiser. This ensures that even in light airs, the boat remains responsive, provided the bottom is kept clean. Anecdotal evidence from long-term owners often highlights the boat’s "sea-kindliness," describing a predictable motion in a seaway that minimizes crew fatigue during cross-Baltic or North Sea passages. The cockpit is deep and well-protected, though by modern standards it may feel slightly cramped for a crew of more than four during active maneuvers.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Beason 31 is a masterclass in traditional Swedish woodworking, usually finished in rich mahogany or teak. The layout follows a classic 31-foot arrangement: a forward V-berth with ample storage, followed by a head compartment (usually to port) and a hanging locker. The main salon features two longitudinal settees with a central folding table, which can often be converted into additional berths. A key feature of the Beason 31 is its galley, typically positioned to port near the companionway, which offers a deep sink and sufficient counter space for extended cruising.

Headroom is generous for a boat of this vintage, hovering around 1.85 meters (6'1") in the main cabin, which contributes to an airy feel despite the darker wood finishes. The Beason 31 saw an evolution in its sibling model, the Beason 311. While built on the same hull, the 311 often featured a modernized interior layout and sometimes an updated deck mold to provide slightly more volume and updated hardware. Another sibling, the Beason 36, utilized similar design DNA but scaled the concept up for blue-water capabilities. Buyers should note that because many Beasons were sold as "kit boats" for owner-completion, the quality of the interior joinery can vary significantly from one hull to another, though factory-finished models are generally held in high regard.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Beason 31 with a checklist focused on its age and specific construction methods:

• Engine Service Life: Most original Beason 31s were fitted with Volvo Penta MD7A or MD11C diesel engines. Many of these are now reaching the end of their operational life or have already been replaced. Potential buyers should prioritize vessels with documented repowers (e.g., Yanmar or newer Volvo Penta D1 series).
• Deck Core Integrity: The sandwich construction of the deck can suffer from delamination or water ingress if deck hardware (stanchions, cleats, or tracks) has not been properly re-bedded. Professional moisture testing is recommended around high-load areas.
• Osmotic Blistering: As with many GRP boats from the late 70s and early 80s, the hull should be inspected for signs of osmosis. While rarely structural, it can be an expensive cosmetic fix.
• Rigging and Chainplates: The masthead rig puts significant tension on the chainplates. These should be inspected for "bleeding" (rust streaks) or movement, which may indicate the need for reinforcement or replacement of the underlying backing plates.
• Window Seals: The aluminum-framed windows are prone to leaking over time, which can damage the high-quality interior woodwork. Checking for water stains behind the settee cushions is a vital first step.

Community & Resources

The Beason brand enjoys a dedicated following in Northern Europe. The most prominent resource for technical data and owner history is the Beason Club, a group primarily based in Sweden that maintains records of hull numbers and design variations. Additionally, the Swedish sailing portal Maringuiden hosts extensive user reviews and technical discussions specific to the Beason 31, providing a wealth of information for those willing to navigate the Swedish-language archives.

The Verdict

The Beason 31 is an excellent choice for a sailor who prioritizes build quality and traditional aesthetics over modern "caravan" volume. It is a boat that rewards its owner with security in heavy weather and a timeless profile at the dock.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and interior woodwork (in factory-finished models).
• Stiff, predictable sailing performance with high stability.
• Deep, secure cockpit suitable for offshore work.
• Affordable entry point into high-quality Scandinavian cruising.

Cons:

• Interior volume and "openness" are less than modern 31-footers.
• The age of the fleet requires careful inspection of engines and GRP cores.
• Variability in finish quality due to the prevalence of owner-completed kits.