Built during the late 1970s, this moderate displacement cruiser emerged from the design board of renowned naval architect Sparkman & Stephens, bringing their racing pedigree to the family cruising market. The Hughes 31 represents a thoughtful balance between performance and comfort that characterized quality production boats of its era. With her traditional lines and well-proportioned profile, this sailboat exhibits the classic S&S aesthetic that sailors have long admired. The design emphasizes seaworthiness and stability, making her well-suited for coastal cruising and protected offshore passages. Her moderate beam and sensible sail plan provide manageable handling characteristics for couples or small crews. The Hughes 31 gained recognition for solid construction quality and attention to detail in both hull and interior appointments. Her accommodations typically feature a practical layout that maximizes the available space while maintaining the structural integrity essential for blue water capability. While production numbers remained relatively limited, those who have owned and sailed the Hughes 31 often praise her predictable handling characteristics and ability to maintain speed in varied conditions. For sailors seeking a well-bred cruiser with proven offshore DNA, this model represents an interesting option in the vintage sailboat market.
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What is the Hughes 31's sail area to displacement ratio?
The Hughes 31 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 14.51. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.
What is the Hughes 31's comfort ratio?
The Hughes 31 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 26.23. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.
Is the Hughes 31 safe for offshore sailing?
The Hughes 31 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.86. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.
What is the hull speed of the Hughes 31?
The theoretical hull speed of the Hughes 31 is 6.56 knots, calculated from its waterline length.
How much does a Hughes 31 weigh?
The Hughes 31 has a displacement of 9,100.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 31.00 ft.
Who designed the Hughes 31?
The Hughes 31 was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, first built in 1979.