1986 hunter 31 sailboat

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• Hunter 31 Sailboat

The Hunter 31 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators

The Hunter 31, a B&R rigged masthead sloop, was designed by Cortland Steck and built in the USA by Hunter Marine.

Published Specification for the Hunter 31

Underwater Profile:  Fin keel & spade rudder

Hull Material:  GRP (Fibreglass)

Length Overall:  31'4" (9.6m)

Waterline Length:  26'3" (8.0m)

Beam:  10'11" (3.4m)

Draft:  5'3" (1.6m)

Rig Type:  B&R

Displacement:  9,700lb (4,400kg)

Ballast:  4,000lb (1,814kg)

Designer:  Cortland Steck

Builder:  Hunter Marine (USA)

Year First Built:  1983

Year Last Built:  1987

Published Design Ratios for the Hunter 31

Sail Area/Displacement Ratio :  16.2

Ballast/Displacement Ratio:  41.2

Displacement/Length Ratio: 239

Comfort Ratio:  22.4

Capsize Screening Formula:   2.1

Read more about these  Key Performance Indicators...

Summary Analysis of the Design Ratios for the Hunter 31

1. A Sail Area/Displacement Ratio of 16.2 suggests that the Hunter 31 will, in the right conditions, approach her maximum hull speed readily and satisfy the sailing performance expectations of most cruising sailors.

2. A Ballast/Displacement Ratio of 41.2 means that the Hunter 31 will stand up well to her canvas in a blow, helping her to power through the waves.

3. A Displacement/Length Ratio of 239, tells us the Hunter 31 is a moderate displacement cruiser, which means she'll carry all your cruising gear without it having a dramatic effect on her performance. Most of today's sailboats intended for offshore cruising fall into this displacement category.

4. Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio of 22.4 suggests that crew comfort of a Hunter 31 in a seaway is similar to what you would associate with the motion of a coastal cruiser with moderate stability, which is not the best of news for anyone prone to seasickness. 

5. The Capsize Screening Formula of 2.1 tells us that a Hunter 31 would not be as good a choice of sailboat for ocean passage-making, owing to the increased risk of capsize in strong winds and heavy seas when compared to a sailboat with a CSF of less than 2.0.

The Hunter 31 Sailboat: A Review

The Hunter 31 is a popular model from Hunter Marine, an American company that has been building quality sailboats since 1973. The Hunter 31 was first introduced in 1983 and was designed by Cortland Steck. It was produced until 1987, when it was replaced by the Hunter 33.5. In 2006, Hunter Marine launched a new version of the Hunter 31, which is sometimes referred to as the Hunter 31-2 or the Hunter 30/31. This boat was designed by Glenn Henderson and was in production until 2014. In this article, we will focus on the original Hunter 31, but we will also mention some of the differences and similarities with the newer model.

The Hunter 31 is a sloop-rigged cruiser that can accommodate up to six people in two cabins and a convertible salon. It has a fin keel, a spade rudder and a single wheel steering system. The boat has a self-tacking jib and an optional in-mast furling system for easy sail handling. The boat also has a Yanmar diesel engine with a low fuel capacity of 12 gallons.

The Hunter 31 is a boat that offers a lot of features and benefits for recreational sailors. Here are some of the main aspects of the boat that you might want to know more about:

Overview The Hunter 31 is a boat that combines performance, comfort and convenience. It is a boat that can sail well in light to moderate winds, thanks to its efficient hull shape and rig design. It is also a boat that can handle rougher conditions, thanks to its high stability and stiffness. The boat has a PHRF rating of 174, which means it is faster than some of its competitors in its size range.

The Hunter 31 is also a boat that offers plenty of space and amenities for living aboard. It has a beam of 10 feet and 11 inches, which gives it a roomy interior and a wide cockpit. It has two private cabins, one forward and one aft, each with a double berth and storage space. It has a large salon with a U-shaped dinette that can convert into another double berth, a navigation station with an electrical panel and instruments, and a galley with a two-burner stove, an oven, a sink, an icebox and ample counter space. It has a head with a marine toilet, a sink and a shower. It also has plenty of ventilation and natural light, thanks to its numerous ports, hatches and skylights.

The Hunter 31 is also a boat that is easy to operate and maintain. It has a simple and user-friendly layout, with all the controls and lines led back to the cockpit. It has an engine access panel under the companionway steps, which makes it easy to check and service the engine. It has a molded fiberglass hull and deck, which are durable and easy to clean.

Accommodation The Hunter 31 can sleep up to six people in two cabins and a convertible salon. The forward cabin has a V-shaped double berth with storage drawers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, an overhead hatch and two opening ports. The aft cabin has an athwartships double berth with storage lockers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, an opening port and an overhead hatch. The salon has a U-shaped dinette that can convert into another double berth with storage lockers underneath, shelves along the hull sides, four opening ports and two overhead hatches. The head is located on the port side of the salon, opposite the galley. It has a marine toilet with a holding tank, a sink with hot and cold water, a shower with a sump pump, storage cabinets, an opening port and an overhead hatch.

The accommodation layout of the newer Hunter 31-2 is slightly different from the original model. The forward cabin has more headroom and more storage space than the original model. The aft cabin has less headroom but more floor space than the original model. The salon has a straight settee on the starboard side instead of a navigation station, and a smaller dinette on the port side that can convert into a single berth. The head is located on the starboard side of the salon, opposite the galley. It has a separate shower stall with a folding door, which makes it more spacious and comfortable than the original model.

Hull and Deck The Hunter 31 has a solid fiberglass hull with a balsa core sandwich construction for the deck. The hull has a moderate displacement of 9,700 pounds and a ballast of 4,000 pounds. The hull has a fin keel with a draft of 5 feet and 3 inches, which gives it good performance and stability. The hull also has a spade rudder with a stainless steel shaft and bearings, which gives it good maneuverability and responsiveness. The deck of the Hunter 31 is designed for safety and convenience. It has a wide and flat foredeck with an anchor locker, an anchor roller and an electric windlass. It has stainless steel bow and stern pulpits, stanchions and lifelines. It has two dorade vents on the cabin top for ventilation. It has two large cockpit lockers for storage, one on each side of the wheel. It has a transom swim platform with a folding ladder and a shower. It also has a stern rail seat on each side of the cockpit, which provides extra seating and visibility.

The hull and deck of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some improvements and modifications. The hull has a slightly longer waterline length of 28 feet, which increases its speed potential. The hull also has a shoal draft option of 3 feet and 11 inches, which makes it more suitable for shallow waters. The deck has a more modern and sleek appearance, with flush-mounted hatches, recessed handrails and an arch over the cockpit that supports the mainsheet traveler and the optional bimini top.

Mast and Rigging The Hunter 31 has a sloop rig with a deck-stepped mast and swept-back spreaders. The mast is made of anodized aluminum and has internal halyards and wiring. The mast height is 46 feet and 7 inches, which makes it suitable for most bridges and marinas. The mast also has an optional in-mast furling system for the mainsail, which makes it easier to reef and stow the sail.

The boat has a B&R rig, which is a fractional rig that eliminates the need for a backstay. This allows for a larger mainsail area and a smaller jib area, which improves the boat's performance in light winds and reduces its heeling tendency. The boat also has a self-tacking jib, which makes it easier to tack and trim the sail without changing sheets.

The boat has stainless steel standing rigging and low-stretch running rigging. The boat has two Lewmar self-tailing winches on the cabin top for halyards and reefing lines, and two Lewmar self-tailing winches on the coaming for jib sheets. The boat also has rope clutches, cam cleats, blocks, tracks and cars for adjusting the sails. The mast and rigging of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some differences. The mast height is slightly lower at 46 feet, which reduces its windage and weight aloft. The mast also has an optional in-boom furling system for the mainsail, which gives it more sail shape control than the in-mast furling system. The boat also has an optional spinnaker or gennaker for downwind sailing.

Keel and Rudder The Hunter 31 has a fin keel which is bolted to the hull with stainless steel bolts and nuts. The keel draft is 5 feet and 3 inches, which gives it good performance upwind and downwind. The keel also provides stability and balance to the boat. The boat has a spade rudder with a stainless steel shaft and bearings. The rudder draft is 5 feet, which matches the keel draft. The rudder also provides maneuverability and control to the boat.

The keel and rudder of the newer Hunter 31-2 are similar to the original model, but with some options. The boat has a shoal draft option of 3 feet and 11 inches, which reduces its draft by more than one foot. The boat also has an optional wing keel or twin keels, which increase its stability at low speeds or when anchored.

The above text was drafted by sailboat-cruising.com using GPT-4 (OpenAI’s large-scale language-generation model) as a research assistant to develop source material; we believe it to be accurate to the best of our knowledge.

Other sailboats in the Hunter range include:

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Marlow-Hunter 31

• By Herb McCormick
• Updated: March 16, 2016

Once upon a time, I owned a J/30. As a racer/cruiser introduced in 1979, it lacked many cruising amenities, even for its era, but for a 30-footer it was plenty beamy (over 11 feet), and I always considered it a not-insubstantial vessel. Times change, of course, particularly with yacht designs, a point that was driven home as I stepped aboard the Marlow-­Hunter 31 last fall. Thinking back on my cherished J boat, I had to smile. Though roughly a foot shorter than the latest offering from the well-­established Florida builder, figuratively speaking, my old girl would have fit in this new 31-footer’s hip pocket. How was it even possible?

Well, the short answer is a quick summation of many of the characteristics shared by lots of contemporary production cruisers. Designers Glenn Henderson (a longtime Hunter hand) and David Marlow (a veteran powerboat builder who purchased the company three years ago) have incorporated a trendy hard chine just below the waterline and used it to maximize the dimensions and interior volume. Long waterline? Check. Extended topsides? Check. Max beam (almost 12 feet!) carried well aft? Check.

Indeed, the Marlow-Hunter 31 is a thoroughly ­modern pocket cruiser that also includes many familiar Hunter features, including a B&R rig with swept-back spreaders that eliminate the backstay. You’re not finding that on any imports. But when you start to scratch the surface, it’s also abundantly clear that there’s some serious innovation happening here, particularly in the methods and materials used to piece the boat together. We tested the M-H 31 on Chesapeake Bay during last fall’s Boat of the Year trials, and got totally skunked on breeze: zero, nothing, nada. It happens. But while a couple of the judges and I vainly tried to put the boat through its paces, David Marlow and the third member of our panel, systems expert Ed Sherman of the American Boat and Yacht Council, disappeared below, two salty dogs lost in private banter. Whatever were they discussing? Later, during deliberations, Sherman spilled the beans. “We had a fascinating conversation,” he said. “He’s a man on a mission who really wants to reinvent the Hunter brand. Part of the way he’s doing that is to take a hard look at long-term durability while trying to build a product that’s easier for his factory workers to assemble. He’s invested a huge amount of time and R & D in developing a database of what works and what doesn’t. It blew me away.

“Most of his experience is in the powerboat sector, but he has a broad nautical background, so he’s got some knowledge of ­hydrodynamics, aerodynamics and structural build,” he continued. “It’s evident in the hull layup, for instance, with the use of Kevlar forward to increase impact resistance. They’ve made some phenomenal decisions in how to address cores, where they’re going to be applied, and the type of fiberglass they use in the overall laminate. It’s pretty amazing, and it was impressive to talk to him about it.”

There’s the overview on the construction side. Judge Tim Murphy discussed specifics. “There’s definitely a new sheriff in town,” he said. “They’re doing a lot of things really right. There are no chopper guns in the layup shop anymore. Now they’re using biaxial cloth, and it’s engineered so the stress is carried in the right direction. They’re also using vinylester resin, which will really work against osmosis. Below the waterline, the boat is solid fiberglass, but in the topsides and deck they’ve eliminated balsa core and replaced it with Nida-Core, a honeycomb panel that’s lighter and stiffer. All good things.”

So, yes, a new day has dawned at Marlow-Hunter, especially on the manufacturing front. What about execution? The judges loved some items and questioned a few others, starting all the way aft, with the hatch in the transom opening into a dedicated storage locker for surfboards or kayaks. Let’s put it this way: Holes in boats that may allow the ingress of water make the judges very nervous.

Topsides, the centerpiece of the design is the expansive, beam-to-beam cockpit, which eschews traditional coamings to create the widest possible space. The coolest part, everyone agreed, was the nifty articulating Lewmar pedestal and steering wheel, operated with a foot pedal to swing from side to side so the helmsman can steer in comfort from either a windward or leeward position. (The wheel spokes also fold inward to permit easy access to the drop-down transom.) Despite the beam, with this arrangement, there’s no need for twin wheels.

As with previous ­Hunters, the traveler for the B&R mainsail is stationed atop a prominent arch, which also houses speakers, LED lights, a bimini and one end of the double-ended main sheet (the other is led to the cabin top). Over the years, I’ve sailed many Hunters with this setup, and it’s functional, though it does take some getting used to. (It’s tough to gauge where the traveler is positioned.) Judge Alvah Simon isn’t a fan, primarily because the arch necessitates a high gooseneck for the boom to clear it; this elevates the sail plan, and power in the B&R rig is really derived from the mainsail. Though our test boat was equipped with an optional in-mast furling main, Simon recommends the standard, traditional, fully battened one.

One last thing: Some members of our team, perhaps less nimble than they once were, wondered if it would be difficult getting into or out of the cockpit on a steep heel. (There is a step in the coachroof leading forward, but one of our judges initially mistook it for a seat.) With calm conditions, we didn’t get the chance to try.

Down below, the layout is spacious. There is a large head, a straight-line galley and roomy berths in the ends of the boat. Each is a bit of a trade-off. The forward cabin has great headroom but a slightly smaller V-berth. The aft bed, athwartships below the cockpit, is huge but in a more enclosed space. All in all, for well under $200,000, the Marlow-Hunter 31 is a whole lot of boat in a very manageable package. As for the company itself, we’re talking equal parts revolutionary and evolutionary.

LOA: 32’4″ LWL: 28’9″ Beam: 11’10” Draft (shoal / deep): 4’5″ / 5’5″ Sail Area: 581 ft 2 Ballast (shoal / deep): 3,525/3,379 lb. Displacement (shoal / deep): 11,854/12,000 lb. Ballast/Displacement: 0.28 Displacement/Length: 205 Sail Area/ Displacement: 17.7 Water: 50 gal. Fuel: 21 gal. Holding: 20 gal. Hast Height (Standard): 46’7″ Engine: 29 hp Yanmar (saildrive) Designers: Glenn Henderson/David Marlow Price: $160,000

Marlow-Hunter LLC 386-462-3629 www.marlow-hunter.com

Herb McCormick is CW’s executive editor.

• More: 2011+ , 31 - 40 ft , Coastal Cruising , marlow-hunter , monohull , sailboat review , Sailboats
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T he Hunter 31 can easily be added to the list of "everyman sailboats" because of its relatively affordable price, the sheer number of hulls currently on the used boat market and the sloop's overall versatility as both daysailer and family cruiser.

First impressions

Would-be boat owners looking for a bargain are likely to gravitate to the Hunter 31, which has a racy look with masthead rig and swept spreaders, and plenty of room above and below deck for friends to come aboard. The Hunter 31 doesn't look like a slow-moving tub or a traditional sloop from the 1960s or 1970s with overhangs and varnish-begging brightwork. Instead, it has the more contemporary lines found on boats made during the 1980s, with generous freeboard, a stainless steel destroyer wheel, tinted hatch covers, bow and stern pulpits, reverse transom and an aluminum toerail track similar to those pioneered by C&C. The deck is uncluttered given the overall length of the boat, although the sheer isn't the most elegant ever drawn.

The 31 was designed by Cortland Steck, who grew up racing dinghies from age 7 and later sailed larger boats offshore. In 1979, he graduated from the Westlawn School of Yacht Design and five years later established Cortland Steck Yacht Design. Steck has amassed more than 5,000 designs to his credit, including the Hunter 20, 34, 40 Legend, Starwind 223 and Hunter 25.5.

Construction

Many owners agree the Hunter 31 wasn't built with the notion that it would still be sailing far into the next century. Clearly not as rugged as some production boats, with the exception of its rock-solid hull, the overall build quality is the target of frequent criticism by owners. Complaints range from substandard winches to delamination on portions of the balsa-cored deck.

The hull was made of hand-laid, pre-cut fiberglass to ensure consistency. Hunter bonded a full-length internal frame and stringer system of unidirectional fiberglass directly to the hull to increase stiffness without adding undue weight. The chainplates were fastened to this framing system and led upward through the deck just outside the coachroof, creating more interior space and minimizing deck clutter. This design distributed the load to the frame and stringer system.

The keel is cast iron so rust will always be a factor where it's bolted to the hull. The rust tends to form on the crack where the metal meets the fiberglass. Although this joinery is covered with a thin layer of gelcoat at the factory, once the material wears away, cracks develop and a rust line becomes visible. Maintenance of this area is essential by carefully grinding and cleaning the boat after haul out, then recoating.

What to look for

Delamination may be found beneath the mast and compression post along with a weakened crossmember. Look for discoloration or mold.

The shower sump and icebox drain into the bilge, which is shallow and compartmentalized, an arrangement that allows stagnant water to become trapped and inaccessible. Owners report this can cause rotting of the cabin sole.

The bilge area under the engine can also collect water from rain entering through the companionway. This water can drain into the main bilge area, adding to what is already accumulated from the sump and icebox.

Leaks under the steering pedestal and at the cabin windows are common. These seals should be cleaned and recaulked. Some owners have replaced the fuel tank, claiming it's flimsy. As one owner wrote in an online forum, "I replaced that cheap plastic, sorry excuse for a fuel tank." Another sailor resorted to using a portable fuel tank rather than replace the original.

The fuel filter gauge is inside the starboard storage locker, where it is difficult to access or see. The integrated water and waste tanks are sensibly molded into the hull, but their screwed-down lids should be removed and resealed after 20 years to keep leaks and odors in check.

Prospective buyers should examine the cable-linked steering for wear.

The masthead rig features swept spreaders. The deck is uncluttered, except for lifelines, genoa track and shrouds, the latter attached nearer the coachroof than to the outside rail. The shroud placement allows crew to move more easily fore and aft for sail changes or foredeck work. The lifeline stanchions are mounted outboard, creating additional room on deck. The T-shaped cockpit is somewhat cramped due to the pedestal steering column, wheel and engine controls. The cockpit lockers are large enough to stow all sails and other equipment.

There's a big-boat feel once you go below. Headroom is 6 feet 3 inches in the spacious saloon, but the V-berth is tight for two adults. The head with sink and toilet is just outside the V-berth and fitted with a privacy door.

The overall layout is social, with a U-shaped galley to starboard that allows the cook to converse or otherwise take part in the goings on. The galley has a four-burner stove, two-basin sink and an icebox. It is abutted by a dinette that seats four.

The port side features a settee and full navigation station with chart table and light. The aft cabin is roomy. Teak paneling warms the saloon and other bulkheads. Plentiful windows provide light and cross ventilation. The boat carries 35 gallons of water.

The hulls made from 1983 to 1985 were fitted with a 13-horsepower, freshwater-cooled, Yanmar diesel. Later boats were beefed up with a 16-horsepower engine. Both versions proved reliable, but underpowered when motoring to windward or in a choppy sea. Engine power has been a source of owner complaints. Panels allow for good engine access. The boat carries 18 gallons of fuel.

One owner praised the 13-horsepower engine, noting Yanmar suggested running it full bore and then backing off 10% to find the ideal rpm. "Mine runs like a top and is happy at 3,000 rpm," he said. "I can make 6.1 knots in a calm to slight chop, running at 2,900."

The Hunter 31 gets good reviews for its sailing abilities. Although the light-displacement sloop can be tender in a gusty wind, overall it's a forgiving boat with a balanced helm. Owners contend it's a no-brainer to sail and a joy to singlehand.

Opinions vary about the boat's proclivities when sailing downwind because the puffed-out mainsail hits the swept-back spreaders and doesn't always fill properly.

A few Hunter 31 skippers advocated using instead a combination of genoa and spinnaker when possible.

The boat performs nicely on its mainsail, but once the wind exceeds 20 knots, one or two reefs are highly advised. It tracks admirably once in the groove but can be slow to heel and may round up in a heavy gust. A broad reach is not its fastest point of sail.

Generally, owners find little fault with the boat's sailing characteristics. As one put it, "More than once I looked like a sailing genius because the boat handles so well."

Although the original sales brochure described the Hunter 31 as a bluewater boat, it seems more suited as a coastal cruiser. Given that a used Hunter 31 can be purchased on average for $20,000, one in good condition with upgrades already installed would be a bargain.

Bottom line: For not much more than the price of a used car, you can have a heck of a lot of fun on this boat.

PRICE: The price for a used Hunter 31 ranges from nearly $35,000 for a model in excellent condition with upgrades, to $16,400 for a boat in poor condition. Most 31s are priced around $20,000.

DESIGN QUALITY: Designed by Cortland Steck, the masthead sloop features a choice of deep or shoal-draft keel, fiberglass hull, spade rudder and has a pleasing overall length-to-width ratio of 3-to-1.

CONSTRUCTION QUALITY: The Hunter 31 was built from 1983 to 1987 in Alachua, Florida, by Hunter Marine USA. Complaints have been voiced about undersized winches, a weak mainsheet traveler and poor craftsmanship in some areas below deck. As one owner put it, "Details were compromised due to pricing."

USER-FRIENDLINESS: Owners seem to agree the Hunter 31 is an easy boat to sail, simple to rig, somewhat tender but able to point high in a moderate breeze. By all accounts, it's made to singlehand. Mast height from the water is 47 feet 4 inches, enabling the boat to fit under most fixed highway bridges.

SAFETY: The Hunter 31 is often referred to as high and dry, mostly due to its generous freeboard. However, owners claim it gets pushed around by heavy seas, and its underpowered diesel leaves much to be desired. Grab rails on the coachroof provide a modicum of safety on deck.

TYPICAL CONDITION : The boats vary in condition. If maintenance has been kept up, the boat may be a good value, particularly if equipment upgrades were also made. Potential buyers should keep in mind the youngest 31 is now 27 years old and could be showing its age.

REFITTING: Common upgrades include adding a wind speed indicator and gauges for water, fuel and holding tank. Installing a beefier mainsheet traveler; larger winches and anchor roller are typical improvements.

SUPPORT: In 2012, Morgan Industries, parent company of Hunter Marine, filed for bankruptcy and was renamed Marlow-Hunter, which can be reached at www.marlow-hunter.com . For retail parts, contact www.shop.hunterowners.com . The Hunter Owners' Association, www.hunterowners.com is also a resource of support and information.

AVAILABILITY: Dozens of Hunter 31s are currently on the market, mostly listed. In early 2014, a project boat was being offered at $10,000 and eBay was auctioning a 1984 model for $6,900.

INVESTMENT AND RESALE: Because of its low-price on the used boat market, there is only moderate resale value.

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Edwards Yacht Sales

• 866.365.0706

1986 Hunter Sloop

• Punta Gorda, FL, US

Yacht price

• Email Broker
• Call Broker

This Hunter 31 is your sailboat for daysailing, weekend and longer cruising, club racing and having just plain fun on the water. Her wing keel with 4' draft and 47' bridge clearance gives you a lot of options for sailing destinations. Bring along friends and family to relax in the roomy cockpit under bimini and dodger.  Attach your dinghy to the davits for exploring ashore while anchored. Salon seats 6-7 comfortably. Sleep 4 in 2 private double berths and 1 more on salon settee. Her fully equipped galley invites you to prepare nutritious meals and snacks, using microwave oven, alcohol stove and oven, refrigerator, hot/cold pressurized water at sink, and plenty of countertop space.

If you want to get into sailing without a large expense, here's your opportunity. After years of enjoying sailing, owner is ready to sell and pursue other hobbies. Offers welcome.

NEW LOWER PRICE!!

Specifications

Descriptions, basic information, dimensions & weight, accommodations.

• View Option

Step down companionway from cockpit to salon with U-shaped galley to starboard across from nav station. Notice the lovely teak sole and interior woodwork. Double berth is aft of nav station on port side. Move forward to full length settee to port that converts to single berth. Dinette to starboard seats 4 with large table - great for meals and games. Note all the storage space behind and underneath the settee and dinette seats. Move further forward to enclosed private head with sink, vanity and shower across from hanging locker. Go forward to private cabin with double v-berth and storage underneath. 

Interior has plenty of flow-through ventilation with 7 opening screened ports, 2 opening overhead screened hatches, and 2 dorades. There are also 3 DC fans.

• roomy salon seats 6-8 on settee and dinette

• large dinette table for meals and table games

• sleeps 5

• private forward cabin with double v-berth

• private aft double berth

• private enclosed head with marine toilet, vanity, sink and shower

• hot/cold pressurized water at galley and head sinks

• 7 opening screened ports

• 2 opening overhead screened hatches

• 2 dorades

Full galley and lots of counterspace for easy preparation of nutritious meals and snacks for family and friends.

• DC refrigerator

• Emerson microwave oven

• 2 burner gimballed alcohol stove and oven

• hot and cold pressurized water at galley sink

• U-shaped galley with plenty of counterspace

• 4" Danforth compass at helm

• West Marine VHF radio

• Horizon depth and speed instruments

• wind vane

• 4 batteries

• 30 amp shorepower and shorepower cord

• bimini and dodger

• cockpit cushions

• 2 swivel folding seats

• dinghy davits

• swim ladder at stern

• bruce anchor on bow pulpit with chain and rode

• aluminum toe rail

• double lifelines

• bow and stern cleats

• life ring

• Yanmar 2GM20F 16 hp fresh water cooled diesel engine

• wheel steering

• hot and cold pressurized water system

• manual marine head with macerator pump

• bilge pump

• rigged for single handing with all lines led aft to cockpit

• roller furling jib

• battened mainsail

• new mainsail cover and jib suncover

• 2 Maxwell 23 2-speed selftailing winches for jib control

• 2 Maxwell single speed winches for traveller control

• new jibsheets and traveller sheets

This inexpensive sailboat is a great choice for experienced and beginning sailors to enjoy loads of fun. Rigged for single handing, she's easy to sail from the cockpit.

Roomy salon, full galley and private double berths in fore and aft cabins are ready for you and your crew to get away for a weekend, week or more.

This owner is ready to sell to explore other hobbies. Take advantage of this opportunity to own a proven, popular model - the 31' Hunter.

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Whether you are buying or selling your next boat or your first boat, one of Edwards Yacht Sales 45+ Professional Yacht Brokers throughout the Southeast are here to assist. Since 2003 we have acted as our clients trusted advisor throughout the entire process from shopping, to making an offer, to sea trial and survey, to closing.

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The Hunter 31 is a 31.33ft b&r designed by Cortland Steck and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1983 and 1987.

The Hunter 31 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally very small. There is a very short water supply range.

Hunter 31 for sale elsewhere on the web:

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1986 Hunter 31 Technical Specs

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• Sailboat Guide

1986 Hunter

• Description

Seller's Description

Do you need a cozy, beautiful sailboat to cruise the Chesapeake Bay? Our 1986, 31’ Hunter is the boat for you. She is equipped for overnighters, with two berths as well as two couches-turned-beds, a full galley, one wet head, and hopefully good winds to carry you to your destination.

The boat was recently equipped with a new-to-us engine. The Yanmar 2GM20F was serviced in July 2024, and is running good as new.

The jib sail was purchased in 2019, and a new mainsail was purchased in 2023, but only used a handful of times since purchasing. The replaced mainsail comes with the boat as well.

The brightwork was varnished every summer since 2021, and was completed again in June 2024.

The dodger was installed in the fall of 2022 and has been an incredible addition during summer rainstorms.

The AC was installed in 2022, and the impeller motor was replaced in June 2024.

The hull was reinforced in 2022, making the boat incredibly strong and ready to endure your new adventures on the Chesapeake Bay.

A ship’s log from our ownership will be included with the purchase of this boat.

This boat has been our home since 2018. We met, got engaged, and got married on this boat. Our hope is to sell it to someone who will love it as much as we have these past six years.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Shoal draft: 4.0’/1.22m Disp. (Shoal draft): 9900 lbs/4494 kg

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1984 Hunter 31

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Hunter 31 The URL for this page is 31 Added 30-Jun-2023 © 2001-2024 ./)   . . ./)   . . 339 IMAGES 1986 Hunter 31 Sailboat for Sale in Ruskin, FL 1986 Hunter 31 Cruiser for sale 1986 Hunter 31 Cruiser/Racer for sale 1986 Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Georgia 1986 HUNTER Hunter31 sailboat for sale in New Jersey 1986 Hunter Sloop 31 Boats for Sale VIDEO Delos Explores the Tuamotu Archipelago, Part 2- Sailing SV Delos Ep. 9 Hunter Formula One Sailing Rutland Sailing Club 68 Sea Ray Sundancer "Wind Star" Yacht Tour 1986 Hunter 31 For Sale Texas 1992 Hunter 30-T hood1.wmv SOLD COMMENTS HUNTER 31 A boat with a BN of 1.6 or greater is a boat that will be reefed often in offshore cruising. Derek Harvey, "Multihulls for Cruising and Racing", International Marine, Camden, Maine, 1991, states that a BN of 1 is generally accepted as the dividing line between so-called slow and fast multihulls. Hunter 31 boats for sale Find Hunter 31 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Hunter boats to choose from. ... 1986 Hunter 31. US$16,500. ↓ Price Drop. The Shoreline Yacht Group - Redondo Beach | Wilmington, California. Request Info; New Arrival; 2008 Hunter 31. US$69,500. US $528/mo. Boats R Fun | Willsboro, New ... Classic Plastic: Hunter 31 The Hunter 31 is a comfortable coastal cruiser. "Classic Plastic" from our November 2010 issue. Hunter Marine introduced the Hunter 31 in 1983, and it remained in production for four years. My 1986 Hunter 31, which I named Aquarius, was 3 years old when I acquired it, and it had only been lightly used. I found it fun to sail. The Hunter 31 Sailboat Specs & Key Performance Indicators The Hunter 31 Sailboat: A Review. The Hunter 31 is a popular model from Hunter Marine, an American company that has been building quality sailboats since 1973. The Hunter 31 was first introduced in 1983 and was designed by Cortland Steck. It was produced until 1987, when it was replaced by the Hunter 33.5. In 2006, Hunter Marine launched a new ... 1986 Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Virginia 1986 31' Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Smith Mountain Lake VA Penhook Virginia. Home. ... Year. Length. Beam. Draft. Location. Price. 1986. 31' 10.92' 4'' Virginia. $13,500. Description: Beautiful 1986 Classic Hunter that has been well taken care of in fresh water Real big boat feel 6'3" headroom thoughout most of boat ... Hunter Sailboats ... Hunter 31 Hunter 31 is a 31′ 3″ / 9.6 m monohull sailboat designed by Cortland Steck and built by Hunter Marine between 1983 and 1987. ... 1986 Hunter 31 $17,000 USD. View. 3 / 8 Cobb Island, MD, US 1984 Hunter 31 ... The higher a boat's D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. ... Sail Hunter 31 boats for sale Find Sail Hunter 31 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Hunter boats to choose from. ... 1986 Hunter 31. US$16,500. ↓ Price Drop. The Shoreline Yacht Group - Redondo Beach | Wilmington, California. Request Info; New Arrival; 2007 Hunter 31. US$58,208. US $442/mo. Able YachtPro | Toronto ... Marlow-Hunter 31 Sailboat Review The aft bed, athwartships below the cockpit, is huge but in a more enclosed space. All in all, for well under $200,000, the Marlow-Hunter 31 is a whole lot of boat in a very manageable package. As for the company itself, we're talking equal parts revolutionary and evolutionary. The main cabin is spacious for a 31-footer with ample headroom. 1986 Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Georgia 5.30'. Georgia. $18,440. Description: 1986 Hunter 31 Cruiser, Ready for it's new owner and fun! With fresh bottom paint, fresh a/c update, new motor mounts, cutlass bearing and alignment as well as halyards and batteries, this Hunter is ready to set sail. Lovingly owned since 2002 but must sell. With room for 6, full galley and head, custom ... Hunter 31 boats for sale in United States Find Hunter 31 boats for sale in United States. Offering the best selection of Hunter boats to choose from. ... 1986 Hunter 31. US$16,500. ↓ Price Drop. The Shoreline Yacht Group - Redondo Beach | Wilmington, California. Request Info; New Arrival; 2008 Hunter 31. US$69,500. US $549/mo. Boats R Fun | Willsboro, New York. Request Info; 1983 ... Hunter 31 PRICE: The price for a used Hunter 31 ranges from nearly $35,000 for a model in excellent condition with upgrades, to $16,400 for a boat in poor condition. Most 31s are priced around $20,000. DESIGN QUALITY: Designed by Cortland Steck, the masthead sloop features a choice of deep or shoal-draft keel, fiberglass hull, spade rudder and has a pleasing overall length-to-width ratio of 3-to-1. Hunter 31 boats for sale The starting price is $4,900, the most expensive is $69,500, and the average price of $35,500. Related boats include the following models: 33, 30 and 356. Boat Trader works with thousands of boat dealers and brokers to bring you one of the largest collections of Hunter 31 boats on the market. You can also browse boat dealers to find a boat near ... Hunter 31 boats for sale View a wide selection of Hunter 31 boats for sale in your area, explore detailed information & find your next boat on boats.com. #everythingboats. Explore. Back. Explore View All. Overnight Cruising ... 1986. $16,500 Seller The Shoreline Yacht Group - Redondo Beach 26. Contact. 833-258-3722. 1986 Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Georgia 1986 31' Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in Savannah Georgia. Great family cruiser, many updates from the A/C to the water heater and radio system. 1986 Hunter 31, Wilmington California This Hunter has a generous freeboard, a stainless steel destroyer wheel, tinted hatch covers, bow and stern pulpits, reverse transom and an aluminum toerail track similar to those pioneered by C&C. The deck is uncluttered given the overall length of the boat. The 31 was designed by Cortland Steck who has amassed more than 5,000 designs to his ... 1986 Hunter Sloop 31 Boats for Sale Overview. This Hunter 31 is your sailboat for daysailing, weekend and longer cruising, club racing and having just plain fun on the water. Her wing keel with 4' draft and 47' bridge clearance gives you a lot of options for sailing destinations. Bring along friends and family to relax in the roomy cockpit under bimini and dodger. 1986 Hunter sailboat for sale in Virginia Our 1986, 31' Hunter is the boat for you. She is equipped for overnighters, with two berths as well as two couches-turned-beds, a full galley, one wet head, and hopefully good winds to carry you to your destination. The boat was recently equipped with a new-to-us engine. The Yanmar 2GM20F was serviced in July 2024, and is running good as new. 1986 Hunter 31 Beautiful 1986 Classic Hunter that has been well taken care of in fresh water Real big boat feel 6'3" headroom thoughout most of boat Comes with fully equipped galley Berths for 7 Completely private head large chart table with light Loads of storage space. Equipment: Folding prop Keurig and Microwave Portable AC Genoa and Main Sail Lazy ... Hunter 31 The Hunter 31 is a 31.33ft b&r designed by Cortland Steck and built in fiberglass by Hunter Marine (USA) between 1983 and 1987. The Hunter 31 is a moderate weight sailboat which is a reasonably good performer. It is very stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is ... 1986 Hunter 31 Specs And Pricing LOA (Length Overall) 9.55 Meters / (31 feet and 4 inch) Displacement (Weight) 4491 Kg / (9900 lb) Parts And Accessories: Hunter 31 Parts : Boat Maximum Draft 1986 Hunter 31 Standard features. Hunter 31 1986. W/Roller Furling, Yanmar Diesel, New Mermaid Air Conditioning and More. ACCOMMODATIONS: 63 Headroom Teak and Holly Sole Opening Ports Fore and Aft Dinette Table 2 Hanging Lockers Fully Enclosed Head w/Vanity and Mirror Nav Station and Chart Table Light V Berth Forward Port and Starboard Berths Aft Quarter ... 1986 Hunter Our 1986, 31' Hunter is the boat for you. She is equipped for overnighters, with two berths as well as two couches-turned-beds, a full galley, one wet head, and hopefully good winds to carry you to your destination. The boat was recently equipped with a new-to-us engine. The Yanmar 2GM20F was serviced in July 2024, and is running good as new. 1986 Hunter 31 sailboat for sale in South Carolina 1986 Hunter 31 16hp Yanmar 2GM20F inboard needs rebuil (turns over, but won't start)t. * Fridge/Freezer (12v/110v) *Hot Water Heater (12v/110) *8A Battery Charger ... Hunter Sailboats Hunter 31.33s South Carolina Hunters. Featured Sailboats: Home. Register & Post. View All Sailboats. catamaran gulet motorboat powerboat riverboat sailboat yacht