Boat Name: Chaser
Boat Type: Power - Recreational
Manufacturer: Tiara
Model: Tiara 31 Open (1985)
Feet: 31 Year: 1985
Primary use: Family Boating
Short Description: I have owned several boats over the years, and the Tiara has been the best yet for comfortable family cruising and fishing.
Cockpit: Cockpit is very generous at over 10' x 10'. Helm visibility is generally unobstructed. We use the boat for fishing and general cruising, even with fairly regular overnights for a family of 4 in the summers.
Cabin: Cabin is nicely appointed with the dinette convertible into a double bunk, and V berth forward. The entire cabin is finished in teak, with a teak and holly sole. The head includes a shower, but it is a pretty messy proposition to use it.
Construction: Generally the boat is built very well and very sturdy. The only criticism I would have is the engine/cockpit hatch hinges tend to pull out their attachments. Hatches on the foredeck need to be weatherstripped often.
Handling: The Tiara 31 handles very nicely, and I would say it has a "soft" ride. The down side to this vintage of Tiara is they are "wet", so be sure the windshield wipers are functioning, especially in a chop.
Engine: Our Tiara is powered with 454 Crusaders. We find we cruise at 18 knots with a top speed of 26kts. We have a "tuna tower", so without that, the boat would probably go faster. We burn 26 gallons per hour at cruise.
General: This is a Southern California boat, based in Newport Beach, and a regular visitor to Avalon on Catalina Island.
