Westerly Regatta 310 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Regatta 310 is a performance-oriented cruiser that benefits significantly from its 7/8 fractional rig. This configuration allows for a smaller, more manageable headsail and a larger, more powerful mainsail, making the boat easier to handle for short-handed crews while providing excellent pointing ability upwind. Because it shares a hull with the Tempest—a boat originally conceived for the "Channel Handicap" racing circuit—the 310 possesses a level of sea-kindliness and stiffness not often found in modern light-displacement hulls.

With a Displacement/Length ratio that leans toward the moderate side, the boat feels planted in a seaway. According to technical data maintained by the Westerly Owners Association, the boat was offered with either a deep fin keel (5' 6") or a twin "bilge" keel (3' 10"). While the fin keel provides superior lift and reduces leeway in light airs, the twin-keel version remains highly sought after for its ability to dry out upright in tidal harbors—a hallmark of Westerly’s utilitarian heritage. In a breeze, the boat tracks exceptionally well, though the large rudder requires attention to prevent stalling during heavy-air reaches.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Ken Freivokh’s influence is most evident in the interior, which moved away from the dark, teak-heavy cabins of the 1970s toward a brighter, more open "European" feel. The layout is optimized for four to six people, featuring a surprisingly spacious aft cabin tucked under the cockpit sole and a forward V-berth. The main saloon utilizes a clever "egg-box" internal molding system that provides structural rigidity while maximizing headroom—nearly 6' 2" in the main cabin—which is impressive for a 31-foot vessel.

The galley is L-shaped and located to starboard, featuring a standard two-burner stove and oven, while the dedicated navigation station sits to port. Variations in the model primarily involve the transition from the older Tempest layout; whereas the Tempest felt like a traditional racing boat below, the Regatta 310 feels like a modern home. The use of lighter ash or cherry wood veneers in some later hulls further enhances the sense of space. One notable sibling is the Westerly Regatta 290, which used a similar aesthetic on a shorter hull, but the 310 is widely considered the "sweet spot" of the range due to the significantly larger aft cabin and heads compartment.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

• Headlining Failure: Like almost all Westerlys of this era, the foam-backed vinyl headlining is prone to "drooping" as the foam degrades over time. Buyers should inspect the ceiling of the cabins for signs of sagging or DIY stapling, as a professional replacement is labor-intensive.
• Keel Bolt Inspection: On twin-keel versions, the stresses of drying out can occasionally lead to weeping at the keel-to-hull joint. While the hulls are heavily reinforced with massive GRP floors, any signs of rust or movement at the bolts should be surveyed.
• Engine Maintenance: Most 310s were fitted with Volvo Penta 2020 series engines. These are reliable, but the heat exchangers are known to corrode if the sacrificial anodes have been neglected. Check for "salt tracking" around the manifold.
• Osmosis: While Westerly moved to higher-quality resins in the 1990s compared to their 1970s counterparts, a moisture meter check of the hull is still standard practice, especially for boats kept in warmer waters.

Community & Resources

The Westerly Owners Association is one of the largest and most active owner groups in the world. They provide an exhaustive technical library, including original brochures and maintenance guides specifically for the Regatta range. Because the 310 shares many parts with the Tempest and the larger Regatta 330, parts availability—including specialized items like rudder bearings and windows—is better than for many other defunct builders.

The Verdict

The Westerly Regatta 310 is a rare find that bridges the gap between classic British "bulletproof" construction and modern design. It is an ideal coastal cruiser for a young family or a couple who values build quality but doesn't want to sacrifice performance.

Pros:

• Excellent balance of speed and stability.
• Bright, modern interior that doesn't feel like a "cave."
• Available in a twin-keel configuration for tidal versatility.
• High resale value due to the brand's enduring reputation.

Cons:

• The headlining will almost certainly require replacement if not already done.
• The fractional rig requires more active backstay adjustment than a simple masthead rig.
• Cockpit space can feel tight if more than four adults are sailing together.