Westerly Tempest 31 Information, Review, Specs

Built to the high standards required for Lloyd’s Hull Construction Certificates, the Tempest 31 featured a solid GRP laminate hull and a balsa-cored deck. Its sleek lines and slightly reversed transom reflected the late-80s move toward "mediterranean" styling, which emphasized cockpit space and aft accommodation. The boat was offered with either a high-aspect fin keel for enhanced windward performance or the signature Westerly twin (bilge) keels, which featured efficient bulb bases to keep the center of gravity low while allowing the vessel to take the ground in drying harbors.

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Tempest 31 is widely regarded as a stiff and sea-kindly vessel that prioritizes predictable handling over raw speed. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of approximately 14.8, the boat is slightly underpowered in light airs compared to contemporary racing designs, but it finds its stride in a Breeze. The Westerly Owners Association notes that the Dubois hull design provides excellent tracking and a balanced feel, particularly for those accustomed to more flighty modern light-displacement yachts.

The boat’s Displacement/Length ratio of 274 places it firmly in the moderate-displacement category. This mass translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway, making it an ideal choice for cross-channel passages or coastal hopping in the choppy waters of the English Channel. Owners often report that the boat feels "bigger" than its 31 feet, a sensation bolstered by the wide beam (10' 10") that provides significant form stability. However, the high-aspect masthead sloop rig and relatively large genoa mean that reefing the mainsail early is necessary to maintain balance and minimize weather helm once the wind exceeds 15-18 knots.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Tempest 31 was revolutionary for its time, departing from the standard V-berth configuration found on almost all yachts of this size. The "Original" layout was designed specifically for three-cabin privacy: it featured two identical, spacious double aft cabins tucked under the cockpit. To accommodate this, the forward section of the boat was dedicated to a full-width heads compartment and a large, walk-in sail locker/gear stowage area accessible from both the heads and a deck hatch.

Following market feedback, Westerly introduced the "Classic" option in late 1988, which returned to a more traditional layout. This variant included a standard V-berth in the forecabin and a single, larger aft cabin to port, allowing for a massive cockpit locker on the starboard side. Regardless of the layout, the joinery was a step up from previous models, utilizing solid teak and high-quality veneers. The Yachtsnet Archive highlights that these later-generation Westerlys benefited from a significantly more refined finish than the "utility-first" interiors of the early 1980s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on several age-related areas common to Westerly yachts of this era:

• Headlining Failure: Like many British boats from the 1980s, the foam backing on the vinyl headlinings eventually disintegrates, causing the material to sag or "droop." Many Tempests have already undergone professional replacement, which is a significant value-add.
• Bilge Keel Stubs: On twin-keel versions, the splayed keels can exert significant leverage on the hull stubs, particularly if the boat has been regularly kept on a drying mooring. Inspect the internal floor structures and the areas around the keel bolts for "crazing" or stress cracks in the gelcoat.
• Engine Splines: The original Volvo Penta MD2002 engines were occasionally prone to wear on the gearbox splines. If the engine is original, check for any play or rattling noises when engaging gear. Many owners have since upgraded to Beta or newer Volvo units.
• Osmosis: While Westerly hulls are robust, they are not immune to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter check of the hull, especially below the waterline, is standard procedure for this vintage.

Community & Resources

The Tempest 31 is supported by one of the most active owner communities in the world. The Westerly Owners Association is the primary hub for technical data, including original brochures and a comprehensive wiki that covers everything from rudder bearing replacement to wiring diagrams. This community is a vital resource for sourcing spare parts that may no longer be in commercial production.

The Verdict

The Westerly Tempest 31 remains a top-tier choice for sailors who value structural integrity and clever interior packaging over modern "flat-bottomed" performance. It is a sturdy, well-engineered cruiser that handles offshore conditions with more grace than many newer, lighter yachts.

Pros:

• Innovative twin aft cabin layout provides exceptional privacy for two couples.
• Solid, Lloyd’s-certified construction ensures long-term durability.
• Excellent stability and sea-kindly motion in heavy weather.
• Available in a bilge keel version for versatile coastal cruising.

Cons:

• The "Original" layout lacks a traditional forward cabin, which can hurt resale to traditionalists.
• Aft-cabin versions suffer from limited cockpit locker space.
• Requires early reefing to stay upright and balanced in a blow.
• Original Volvo MD2002 engines are nearing the end of their reliable service life.