Pandora 700 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Pandora 700 is widely regarded as a "sailor’s boat," characterized by the balanced helm and predictable tracking typical of Van de Stadt Design hulls. With a displacement of approximately 1,200kg and a ballast ratio often exceeding 40%, the boat is notably stiffer than many of its 1970s contemporaries. This stability is a significant upgrade over the earlier International model, which could feel tender when pressed.

The boat was offered in three primary keel configurations: a deep fin keel for optimized windward performance, a twin (bilge) keel for drying moorings, and a rarer triple keel arrangement. According to technical archives at the Pandora Association, the fin-keel version is particularly capable in light airs, pointing high and maintaining momentum through stays. Under sail, the 700 feels responsive, almost dinghy-like in its feedback, which makes it an excellent platform for those transitioning from open boats to cruisers. While it is not a heavy-weather "blue water" yacht, it handles coastal chops with a level of sea-kindliness that belies its 23-foot length, provided the sail plan is reefed early to manage its relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The transition from the "International" to the "700" was primarily driven by the need for more habitable space. The Pandora 700 features a traditional four-berth layout: a V-berth in the forward cabin and two long settee berths in the main saloon that extend under the cockpit seats. Despite the hull's modest beam of 2.1m, the interior feels relatively open thanks to the absence of a full-height bulkhead between the saloon and the forepeak.

Headroom remains limited—a standard compromise in 23-footers of this era—but the 700 often features a sliding hatch and a dedicated galley area that makes weekend cruising viable. Most models were equipped with a chemical or sea toilet located under the V-berth cushions. A notable sibling variant is the "Pandora 22," which shared much of the 700's DNA but featured different deck moldings. Throughout its production run, Rydgeway Marine offered various interior finishes, moving from basic GRP liners in early models to more extensive wood cabinetry in the 1980s editions, which significantly enhanced the cabin's warmth and aesthetic appeal.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus on the following high-signal areas common to GRP yachts of this vintage:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Rydgeway builds, the deck utilizes a balsa or foam core. Inspect for "spongy" areas, particularly around the mast step and the chainplates, which can indicate water ingress and delamination.
• Compression Post: The mast is deck-stepped. Ensure the internal compression post and the structural member beneath the floor liner are sound, as settlement here can lead to rig tension issues and door misalignment.
• Outboard Well Transitions: Many Pandora 700s were built with an outboard well in the cockpit. Check for structural cracks around the well’s mounting points. If a previous owner has converted the boat to a transom-mounted bracket, ensure the original well has been professionally sealed to maintain hull integrity.
• Keel Bolts: On fin-keel models, inspect the keel-to-hull joint for "smiles" or weeping, which may suggest the stainless steel keel bolts require tightening or replacement due to crevice corrosion.
• Rudder Bearings: The transom-hung rudder is robust, but the pintles and gudgeons are prone to wear. Excessive play in the helm is often solved by replacing the nylon bushings or the stainless pins.

Community & Resources

The Pandora 700 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the UK. The Pandora Association serves as the primary technical repository, offering original brochures, rigging guides, and a registry of hull numbers. This community is instrumental for new owners seeking advice on everything from keel bolt torque specifications to modernizing the fractional rig.

The Verdict

The Pandora 700 remains a premier choice for sailors seeking a low-cost, high-reward entry into coastal cruising. It successfully bridges the gap between a performance day-sailer and a functional weekend cruiser.

Pros:

• Exceptional handling characteristics designed by E.G. Van de Stadt.
• Stiffer and more stable than the earlier Pandora International.
• Active owner association provides excellent technical support and parts sourcing.
• Versatile keel options (fin or twin) suit various mooring environments.

Cons:

• Limited standing headroom may be restrictive for taller sailors on longer trips.
• The outboard well configuration can be noisy and vibrate significantly compared to modern setups.
• Age-related GRP issues (deck core/osmosis) require careful pre-purchase inspection.