Westerly Longbow 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Longbow 31 is characterized by its remarkable stability and predictable manners. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 45%, the vessel is exceptionally "stiff," meaning it resists heeling even when pressed in a freshening breeze. This stability is a hallmark of the Laurent Giles design, aimed at providing confidence to coastal cruisers and offshore passage-makers alike. According to technical data from the Westerly Owners Association, the boat has a theoretical hull speed of roughly 6.7 to 7.5 knots, though it is often described as slightly "under-rigged" for light-air performance.

The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio sits at approximately 13.3, which confirms that the Longbow is a moderate-displacement cruiser rather than a racing yacht. In light winds, it may require the assistance of its auxiliary engine—originally the Volvo Penta MD2B—to maintain momentum. However, once the wind reaches Force 4 or higher, the Longbow finds its stride, tracking well thanks to its iron fin keel and rudder mounted on a sturdy half-skeg. Owners frequently report that the boat feels "hewn from granite," providing a motion comfort ratio that exceeds many modern, lighter yachts of similar length.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The Longbow 31 was famously marketed for its "huge" interior, a claim that largely holds up by modern standards for a 31-footer. The design maximizes the 9' 6" beam to provide up to 6' 4" of standing headroom in the main saloon, a luxury that made it a favorite for tall sailors and families. The layout typically includes a V-berth in the forecabin, a separate heads compartment with a hanging locker, and a spacious saloon where the dinette converts into a double berth.

Westerly’s 31-foot hull was a masterclass in modularity, giving rise to several famous "siblings" that shared the same lines but offered different configurations. The Westerly Berwick is the twin-keel version of the Longbow, designed for the drying harbors of the UK's south coast. For sailors preferring a center-cockpit layout and an aft cabin, the Westerly Renown (fin keel) and Westerly Pentland (twin keel) were produced. These variants were often rigged as ketches, providing more sail-handling options, whereas the Longbow was primarily seen as a masthead sloop. Later models in the series transitioned from GRP-heavy interiors to more traditional wood-lined cabins, significantly enhancing the "yacht-like" feel of the vessel.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Longbow's reputation for reliability has made it a recurring subject in British yachting literature and media. Editorial features in Yachting Monthly have frequently highlighted the model in "used boat" tests, often citing it as an ideal entry-level blue-water cruiser. The boat’s cultural footprint is further cemented by its role in numerous "eBay to Ocean" restoration stories, where sailors have documented the delivery of neglected Longbows across the North Sea or through the Caledonian Canal.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Longbow 31 with an awareness of its age, as most units are now over 50 years old. The following areas require diligent inspection:

• Headlining "Droop": A notorious issue with 1970s Westerlys is the failure of the foam backing on the vinyl headliners. Over time, the adhesive degrades, causing the interior fabric to sag. While purely cosmetic, it is a labor-intensive and messy repair.
• Engine Obsolescence: Many Longbows still carry the original Volvo MD2B or MD11C engines. While robust, parts for these units are increasingly expensive and difficult to source. A boat that has been re-powered with a modern Beta or Yanmar diesel is highly desirable.
• Osmosis: While Westerly hulls are built to heavy Lloyds specifications, the solid laminate can develop osmotic blistering. Many boats have undergone professional epoxy treatments, which should be verified in the vessel's history.
• Window Leaks: The original aluminum-framed windows are prone to leaking as the seals age. Replacing these often involves drilling out frozen stainless steel bolts from the aluminum frames.
• Keel Bolts: While less common on the fin-keeled Longbow than on the twin-keeled Berwick, the condition of the mild steel keel bolts and their backing plates should be checked for corrosion and weeping.

Community & Resources

The Westerly Owners Association is one of the largest and most active owner groups in the world. They maintain a comprehensive technical wiki that provides original brochures, wiring diagrams, and crowdsourced repair guides specifically for the 31-foot range. This community remains a vital resource for sourcing specialized parts or advice on structural upgrades.

The Verdict

The Westerly Longbow 31 is a quintessential "British bulldog" of the sea—overbuilt, exceptionally stable, and surprisingly spacious. It is not a boat for those in a hurry, but it is a boat for those who value safety and comfort in a variety of sea states.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and headroom for its class.
• Extremely stiff and stable, making it a safe choice for families.
• Strong community support and a wealth of technical documentation.
• High-quality build standards, originally monitored by Lloyds.

Cons:

• Slightly under-canvassed; sluggish in light winds.
• Standard "Westerly droop" headlining issues are likely unless already replaced.
• Narrow side decks can make moving forward a challenge in a seaway.
• Original Volvo engines are nearing the end of their service life and are costly to maintain.