MP 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The MP 31 is characterized by its "sea-kindliness," a trait inherent in Matti Pulli’s designs, which prioritize stability and predictable tracking over raw racing speed. With a moderate displacement and a hull shape that favors a clean entry into chop, the boat is known for its ability to maintain momentum in confused seas where lighter boats might stall. The cross-laminated construction provides a unique acoustic experience; unlike the "drumming" sound often heard in fiberglass hulls when hitting waves, the MP 31’s wood-epoxy matrix dampens vibration and noise, leading to a much quieter ride.

Owners often note that the boat feels balanced and carries its sail well, though it requires a proactive reefing strategy as the wind climbs toward 20 knots to manage heel. The MP 31 was built with a traditional underwater profile—typically a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder—which provides excellent directional stability. This setup makes the boat an ideal candidate for single-handed sailing or long-distance cruising, as it does not demand constant attention to the helm to stay on course.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Stepping into the cabin of an MP 31 is often described as entering a traditional Scandinavian "fine furniture" workshop. Because Länsivene Oy utilized mahogany veneer for the hull itself, the interior often integrates the structural elements into the aesthetic design. The layout is typically traditional: a V-berth forward, a central salon with settees that double as sea berths, and a compact but functional galley to one side of the companionway.

The MP 31 benefited from the evolution of its siblings; while the MP 27 and 28 were tighter in the beam, the 31-foot hull allowed for improved headroom (reaching approximately 1.85m in the main salon) and a dedicated navigation station. Länsivene Oy also produced the MP 30, which shares many design cues, and the larger MP 34 and 36 models, which offered aft-cabin configurations. In the MP 31, the focus remained on a spacious open salon that maximizes the social area for a crew of four. The wood-heavy interior, while requiring more maintenance than modern plastic liners, provides a level of warmth and moisture regulation that is highly regarded in colder climates.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the MP 31 is celebrated for its longevity—evidenced by the fact that nearly all units built are reportedly still in service—the specific "mahogany veneer" construction requires a specialized survey. Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas:

• Veneer Moisture Content: The primary concern with cold-molded hulls is the integrity of the epoxy seal. If the outer fiberglass skin (usually a thin protective layer) is breached, moisture can wick into the mahogany layers. A professional surveyor with experience in wood-epoxy composites is essential to check for delamination or soft spots.
• Chainplates and Deck Fittings: Like many boats of this era, the points where stays enter the deck are prone to minor leaks. On an MP 31, these must be kept watertight to prevent moisture from reaching the structural plywood or laminate near the deck-to-hull joint.
• Engine Serviceability: Many MP 31s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta or Yanmar diesels from the 1980s. While robust, parts for older models can be difficult to source. Check for signs of "exhaust elbow" corrosion and ensure the engine mounts are stable, as wood-composite hulls can amplify engine vibrations if the mounts have hardened.
• Keel Attachment: The connection between the ballast and the wood-epoxy stub should be inspected for the "smile" crack often found in boats that have experienced groundings in the rocky Finnish archipelagos.

Community & Resources

The MP sailboat community is largely concentrated in Finland and Sweden, where these boats are considered national treasures of the "Golden Age" of Finnish boat building. The most prominent technical resource is the Finnish MP-venepurjehtijat (MP Boat Sailors) community, which maintains informal records of the hulls produced and provides a network for owners to share maintenance tips specifically regarding the cross-laminate hull care. Information regarding the builder's history is maintained by local maritime archives in Rauma, documenting the Tätilä brothers’ contributions to the region's industrial heritage.

The Verdict

The MP 31 is a connoisseur’s sailboat, offering a level of structural integrity and aesthetic warmth that is nearly impossible to find in contemporary production yachts. It is best suited for a sailor who appreciates the "soul" of a wooden boat but wants the lower maintenance and higher strength of modern epoxy technology.

Pros:

• Exceptional Durability: The cross-laminated hull is significantly stronger and more fatigue-resistant than standard GRP.
• Thermal and Acoustic Insulation: Naturally warmer and quieter than fiberglass boats, making it an excellent choice for northern latitudes.
• Timeless Aesthetic: The high-quality mahogany joinery and Matti Pulli lines ensure the boat remains a standout in any marina.

Cons:

• Specialized Maintenance: Requires an owner who understands how to maintain epoxy-coated wood and a surveyor who knows how to inspect it.
• Limited Availability: With only approximately 70 MP boats built across all sizes, finding an MP 31 for sale outside of Northern Europe is rare.
• Traditional Speed: While seaworthy, it will not outperform modern, lightweight performance cruisers in light air.