Sailboats 31-35ft

Being one of the smallest cruising catamarans on the market brands the TomCat 9.7 (www.tomcatboats.com) “entry level,” but we find that term misleading and unfair. There’s much more to the joy of a sailing catamaran than speedo numbers. The 9.7 might not out-drag most of its rivals, but it can, we think, deliver more of what sailors are after when they turn off the auxiliary. And, in many respects, it makes shoal-water sailing safer and more relaxing. If you’re looking at a Maine Cat 30 or a Gemini 105Mc from Performance Cruising, the TomCat also deserves a look.

With a clear understanding of coastal weather conditions, inshore estuaries, and the cruiser-club racer mindset of potential buyers, Bill Shaw designed boats that met the needs of local sailors. The Pearson 32 was no exception: The 32-footer’s shoal draft stats also come with an efficient foil shape and external lead ballast, providing enough lift and lateral plane to enhance sailing ability both on and off the wind. Add to the mix a respectable sail area-displacement ratio, and it’s clear that this Pearson is more than an oversized pocket cruiser. Envisioned originally as both a club racer and a family cruiser, the boat lives up to expectations.

The Farr-designed 10R charts new waters for century-old Beneteau.

With just 30 inches of draft, this model simplifies the fine art of gunkhole cruising.

Treading a fine line between speed and comfort, Tim Jackett’s new 34-footer takes advantage of an epoxy hull and carbon spars

A revamp of the 331, this midsize Beneteau's New 343 cruiser has a plain-Jane mien coupled with adequate comfort and surprising performance.

The 350 follows the lead of the successful 310, with well-designed space in the saloon, and more comfort for fewer crew. Our test sail was slow, partly due to a battenless main.

This is the third version of an already thoughtful design that Tony Smith has been tweaking for years. It's a spacious, stable platform for a fast-cruising couple.

With a jumbo sailplan and racing pedigree, this boat owns the light air. And it can be cruised a bit.

The Beneteau 311, Catalina 310, and Hunter 326 represent what could be called 'entry-level' cruising boats from the major makers, and here's how they could be compared...