Panda 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Panda 31 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, designed to provide a predictable and comfortable motion in a seaway rather than high-performance acceleration. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio typically exceeding 350, it is a "momentum boat" that excels once it finds its groove in a steady breeze. Its hull features a long fin keel and a substantial skeg-hung rudder, a configuration Robert Perry favored for balancing directional stability with maneuverability in tight quarters.

In light air, the Panda 31’s significant wetted surface area can make it sluggish, but as the wind rises above 12–15 knots, the boat comes alive. Owners frequently report that the vessel tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal input from a windvane or autopilot, a direct result of its well-balanced sail plan and hull symmetry. The canoe stern, while reducing ultimate stowage space compared to a transom stern, performs admirably in following seas, parting the waves and preventing the "pooping" often feared in heavy following conditions.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Panda 31 is widely considered a masterclass in small-boat cabinetry, a hallmark of the Ta Shing shipyard’s craftsmanship. Every square inch of the cabin is utilized, featuring solid teak staving, hand-rubbed finishes, and custom bronze hardware. The standard layout typically includes a large V-berth forward, followed by a head with a shower to port and hanging lockers to starboard. The main salon features a U-shaped settee and a straight settee, providing ample seating for four adults.

Because the Panda 31 was built on the same lineage as the Tashiba 31, buyers may encounter slight variations in galley configuration or the presence of a dedicated navigation station. Ventilation is a strong suit, with multiple opening bronze ports and overhead butterfly hatches that are both functional and aesthetically striking. Despite its 31-foot length, the boat offers surprising headroom, often exceeding 6’2”, which prevents the "cave-like" feel common in many traditional cruisers of this size.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Panda 31 must account for the age and specific construction methods used in 1980s Taiwan. While the hulls are generally solid GRP, several high-signal areas require professional inspection:

• Teak Deck Integrity: The Panda 31 was originally delivered with thick teak decks screwed and bonded to a cored fiberglass sub-deck. Over decades, the bungs can wear down and the sealant can fail, leading to water intrusion into the core. A thorough moisture meter test of the decks is essential.
• Fuel and Water Tanks: Like many boats of this era, the Panda 31 often utilized black iron or stainless steel tanks that were glassed into the structure. Replacing a leaking fuel tank frequently requires significant cabinetry removal, making this a high-priority inspection item.
• Chainplate Corrosion: The stainless steel chainplates are often buried behind teak cabinetry. Crevice corrosion is a known risk for any blue-water cruiser of this age, and many owners recommend proactive replacement if they have not been serviced in the last 15 years.
• Osmotic Blistering: While Ta Shing used high-quality resins, some hulls from this period are prone to blistering. A haul-out for a bottom inspection is mandatory to evaluate the extent of any osmotic activity.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Panda 31 often find common ground within the broader "Baba, Panda, Tashiba" community, as these models share a designer, a builder, and many technical specifications. The most prominent resource for technical support and historical documentation is the Baba Panda Tashiba Owners Association, which maintains an extensive archive of original blueprints and modification logs.

The Verdict

The Panda 31 is a specialized vessel that appeals to the traditionalist sailor who values safety and beauty over modern "beamy" interior volumes and planing speeds. It is a true "little ship" capable of crossing oceans in comfort.

Pros:

• Build Quality: Exceptional joinery and fiberglass work from the Ta Shing shipyard.
• Seaworthiness: Heavy displacement and a canoe stern make it one of the safest 31-footers ever built.
• Aesthetics: A timeless, classic design that draws attention in any marina.

Cons:

• Maintenance: High volume of exterior teak requires significant labor to maintain.
• Light Air Performance: Struggles in light winds due to high wetted surface and weight.
• Complexity of Repairs: Specialized systems and "built-in" tanks can make upgrades labor-intensive and expensive.