Ta Shing Tashiba 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Tashiba 31 is characterized by its high displacement-to-length ratio, which imparts a sense of "big boat" stability that is rare for a 31-foot hull. Unlike the more traditional full-keel designs of the previous decade, Perry utilized a "cutaway" forefoot on the Tashiba 31. This design choice reduces wetted surface area and allows the boat to tack with more agility than a standard long-keeled cruiser, while still maintaining the exceptional tracking and directional stability required for long passages.

In heavy weather, the boat’s motion is remarkably sea-kindly; it tends to punch through chop rather than hobby-horsing over it. While it may struggle in light airs—typically requiring 10 to 12 knots of breeze to truly wake up the hull—it excels when the whitecaps appear. The cutter rig, common on many Tashiba 31s, provides a versatile sail plan that allows owners to reduce sail area while keeping the center of effort balanced, a critical factor in maintaining helm control during a blow. According to design notes from Robert H. Perry Yacht Designers, the hull was specifically engineered to avoid the "stern-squatting" issues sometimes found in earlier double-enders, ensuring the boat stays on its lines even when loaded with cruising gear.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Tashiba 31 is a masterclass in Taiwanese teak craftsmanship, a hallmark of the Ta Shing yard. Upon descending the companionway, the volume of the boat is immediately apparent; the 10' 8" beam is carried well aft, providing a spaciousness that rivals many 35-footers of the same era. The layout typically features a large V-berth forward, a central salon with opposing settees, and a functional U-shaped galley that is safe to use while underway.

A notable sibling to the 31 is the Tashiba 36 and the Tashiba 40, which share the same design DNA but offer significantly more living space for larger crews. Within the 31-foot line, variations are primarily found in the wood finishes and cabinetry details, as many of these boats were semi-customized for their original owners. The use of solid teak and high-grade veneers throughout the cabin creates a warm, traditional atmosphere, though it requires a commitment to interior maintenance. Headroom is generous, often exceeding 6' 2", which addresses a common complaint in smaller cruising yachts.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Tashiba 31 should focus their inspections on the specific structural elements common to Ta Shing builds of this vintage:

1. Teak Deck Integrity: Most Tashiba 31s were delivered with thick teak side decks. These are typically screwed into the sub-deck. Over decades, the bungs can wear down and the caulking can fail, leading to moisture intrusion in the core. A thorough moisture meter test of the deck is essential.
2. Chainplate Condition: Like many offshore cruisers, the chainplates are subjected to significant stress. While Ta Shing’s hardware is generally robust, the age of these vessels means any sign of "bleeding" or crevice corrosion at the deck level necessitates immediate replacement.
3. Fuel and Water Tanks: The Tashiba 31 often utilized black iron fuel tanks or aluminum water tanks. These are frequently located under the cabin sole or behind cabinetry, making replacement a labor-intensive project if they have succumbed to corrosion.
4. Propeller Shaft Alignment: Because of the canoe stern and full-keel configuration, the engine is often tucked low and aft. Access to the stuffing box and shaft can be tight, leading to deferred maintenance in some units.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Tashiba 31 benefit from a dedicated community that bridges several Ta Shing-built brands. The Baba, Panda, Tashiba (BPT) Owners Association is a prominent resource for technical support and historical documentation. Additionally, because Robert Perry remains an active figure in the sailing community, his personal design archives and published works often provide specific insights into the performance and history of the Tashiba line.

The Verdict

The Tashiba 31 is an elite-tier cruising yacht for the sailor who prioritizes build quality and seaworthiness over raw speed. It remains one of the few 31-footers truly capable of circumnavigation in comfort.

Pros

• Build Quality: Ta Shing is widely regarded as one of the best yards in the world for traditional FRP construction.
• Seaworthiness: A heavy, stable hull and double-ended design make it exceptional in following seas.
• Interior Beauty: The teak joinery is of a standard rarely seen in modern production yachts.

Cons

• Light Air Performance: The heavy displacement requires a stiff breeze to reach hull speed.
• Maintenance: Extensive teak (both on deck and below) requires consistent upkeep.
• Premium Price: Due to its pedigree and quality, it often commands a significantly higher price than other 30-32 foot cruisers.