FarEast 31 R Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The performance profile of the Fareast 31R is defined by its extreme technical specifications, specifically its staggering ballast ratio and high Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) ratio. With a displacement of approximately 1,800 kg and nearly 1,200 kg of that concentrated in the lead bulb of the keel, the boat possesses a ballast ratio of over 60%. This configuration allows the 31R to support a massive sail plan, including a square-top mainsail and a large asymmetric spinnaker, without the need for a massive crew. As noted by Sailing World, the boat behaves more like an oversized dinghy than a traditional keelboat, offering immediate acceleration and the ability to plane easily in moderate breeze.

The handling is further refined by the lack of a permanent backstay; the rig utilizes swept-back spreaders and deflectors, allowing for the large roach of the square-top main to pass through during tacks and jibes. On the water, the 31R is known for its "point-and-shoot" steering, facilitated by a deep, high-aspect rudder that maintains grip even when the boat is pressed hard at high heel angles. Owners often report that the boat reaches its target speeds quickly, frequently exceeding double digits downwind in 15 knots of true wind.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Fareast 31R gained significant international attention upon its release, earning a nomination for the prestigious 2015 European Yacht of the Year and receiving high praise in specialized racing publications. It was heralded for bringing "all-carbon" construction—typically reserved for custom TP52s or high-end racing prototypes—to a production-level price point. The model’s footprint is particularly strong in the Asian and Australian racing circuits, where it often competes in "Sportsboat" and "IRC" divisions, frequently punching well above its weight class against larger 35- to 40-foot designs.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a used Fareast 31R should focus their inspection on the high-load areas inherent to a lightweight carbon-epoxy build. While the vacuum-infusion process used by Far East Boats is generally high quality, the following areas require specific scrutiny:

• Keel Lifting Mechanism: The 31R features a lifting keel for trailering and shallow-water access. The stainless steel winching system and the keel trunk tolerances should be checked for wear, corrosion, or movement that could lead to vibration at high speeds.
• Mast Step and Rig Tension: Because the boat lacks a permanent backstay and relies on high rig tension to maintain forestay tautness, the mast step and the surrounding structural grid should be inspected for any signs of compression or stress cracking in the epoxy.
• Carbon Surface Integrity: As an all-carbon vessel, "print-through" of the carbon weave is sometimes visible in the gelcoat. While often cosmetic, buyers should differentiate this from actual delamination or impact damage, especially near the bow and the waterline.
• Running Rigging and Hardware: The 31R is equipped with high-performance Harken or Selden hardware. Due to the high loads generated by the sail plan, inspect all blocks, clutches, and the composite chainplates for UV degradation or mechanical fatigue.

Community & Resources

The primary resource for technical data and racing optimization for this model is the manufacturer, Far East Boats, and the designers at Simonis Voogd. Owners typically connect through regional racing associations such as the Australian Sports Boat Association (ASBA) or international One-Design forums. While the 31R did not achieve the same massive class volume as its smaller sibling, the Fareast 28R, it remains a supported model within the Far East global distributor network.

The Verdict

The Fareast 31R is a specialized tool designed for the sailor who values speed and technical precision above all else. It is not a boat for the casual weekender, but for a racing crew, it offers "carbon-fiber performance" at a fraction of the cost of a custom build.

Pros:

• Exceptional Speed: Capable of early planing and high double-digit speeds downwind.
• Advanced Construction: Full carbon/epoxy build provides a stiff, responsive platform.
• Trailability: The lifting keel and removable rig make it easier to transport to various regattas than fixed-keel competitors.
• High Ballast Ratio: Offers surprising stability for such a lightweight vessel.

Cons:

• Zero Amenities: The lack of an interior makes it unsuitable for anything other than day racing.
• Demanding Rig: The backstay-less configuration requires an experienced crew to tune and handle safely in heavy air.
• Niche Market: Resale may take longer due to the boat's specialized "racing-only" nature.