Raven 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Raven 31 is defined by its seakindly motion and predictable handling, a direct result of John Lidgard’s design philosophy which prioritized "stiffness" and tracking over raw speed. As a masthead sloop with a moderate-displacement hull and a fin keel, the boat carries its momentum well through stays and exhibits minimal hobby-horsing in a head sea. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "bigger" than its 31 feet, likely due to its generous beam and high ballast ratio, which allow it to stand up to its canvas longer than lighter contemporary designs.

According to historical design notes from the Lidgard family, the Raven 31 was engineered to be easily handled by a couple, featuring a sail plan that balances a large headsail with a manageable mainsail. While it lacks the instantaneous acceleration of modern carbon-fiber racers, its performance in heavy air is often cited as its greatest strength. The rudder configuration provides enough feedback to keep the helm engaged without becoming fatiguing on long beats to windward. In light airs, the Raven 31 requires a generous genoa to maintain speed, but once the breeze hits 12–15 knots, the hull finds its "groove," offering a stable platform that inspires confidence in novice sailors.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Raven 31 maximizes its 31-foot footprint with a traditional but efficient layout that caters to extended coastal cruising. The standard configuration typically features a V-berth forward, a central saloon with a drop-leaf table, and a compact galley and navigation station flanking the companionway. Because many Raven 31s were sold as "stage-built" or kit boats, the interior finish and specific cabinetry can vary significantly from one hull to the next. Some owners opted for high-end teak joinery, while others focused on functional, easy-to-clean laminates.

The headroom is notable for a boat of this vintage, allowing most sailors to stand upright in the main cabin—a significant upgrade over its smaller sibling, the Raven 26. The 31 also introduced a more viable quarter-berth and a dedicated head compartment, which transitioned the model from a "weekend camper" to a true cruiser. In addition to the standard cruiser, a few "Special Edition" variants were rumored to have been built with slightly deeper keels or taller rigs for racing-oriented owners, though the hull mold remained consistent across the production run.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Raven 31’s legacy is deeply intertwined with the New Zealand yachting boom of the late 20th century. It is frequently featured in retrospective reviews by Boating New Zealand, which often highlights the model as a benchmark for used fiberglass cruisers. The boat’s reputation was further cemented by its frequent appearances in regional regattas and its status as a "stepping stone" vessel for many of the nation’s professional sailors.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Raven 31 with a focus on the structural specifics of 1970s/80s GRP construction.

• Deck Delamination: Like many boats of this era, the Raven 31 often utilized a balsa or plywood core for the decks. If deck hardware has not been properly re-bedded over the decades, moisture ingress can lead to soft spots, particularly around the mast step and stanchion bases.
• Osmosis: While the hulls are generally robust, some earlier Raven models have been known to develop osmotic blistering. A professional hull survey with moisture readings is essential.
• Rigging and Chainplates: On older units, the original stainless steel chainplates and standing rigging may be reaching the end of their fatigue life. Buyers should inspect for "tea-staining" or hairline cracks where the chainplates meet the deck.
• Engine Maintenance: Many Raven 31s were originally fitted with Bukh or early Yanmar diesel engines. While these are reliable workhorses, their age means that cooling systems and engine mounts should be scrutinized for corrosion and wear.

Community & Resources

The Raven 31 enjoys a dedicated following, primarily centered around the Raven Owners Association based in New Zealand. This group serves as a vital repository for technical advice, original sail plans, and restoration tips. Additionally, because the boat was a Lidgard design, the Lidgard Yacht Design archives remain a secondary source of heritage information for owners looking to understand the technical nuances of their hull’s geometry.

The Verdict

The Raven 31 is an enduring example of "honest" boatbuilding—a vessel that doesn't rely on gimmicks but instead offers a balanced, safe, and rewarding sailing experience for those who value sea-kindliness over modern styling.

Pros

• Exceptional stability and heavy-weather performance for its size.
• Spacious interior with standing headroom, suitable for small families.
• Strong community support and a well-regarded designer pedigree.
• Manageable size for solo or short-handed sailing.

Cons

• Performance in light wind can be sluggish without oversized headsails.
• Interiors can vary in quality due to many being finished from kits.
• Aging GRP hulls require diligent surveying for osmosis and deck core issues.