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Sailboat Specifications

Hunter 31

B&R · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Cortland Steck · Built by Hunter Marine (Usa) · First built 1983

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Hunter 31 sailboat — on the water
Photo: Ahunt / CC0
LOA 31.33 ft  ·  Beam 10.92 ft  ·  Displacement 9,700.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 458.00 ft²  ·  B&R  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Hunter 31 Sailboat

Built from 1983 to 1987, this mid-sized cruiser from Hunter Marine represents the builder's approach to affordable family sailing during the 1980s boom. Designed by Cortland Steck, the Hunter 31 features a modern fin keel and spade rudder configuration that delivers responsive handling and good upwind performance for coastal cruising adventures. With a displacement of 9,700 pounds and 4,000 pounds of ballast, this fiberglass sailboat strikes a reasonable balance between stability and performance. The generous beam of nearly 11 feet creates a spacious interior for weekend getaways and extended coastal passages, while the moderate draft of 5.3 feet provides access to most harbors and anchorages. The boat's sail area of 458 square feet and Bermuda rig setup offer versatile sailing characteristics suitable for both casual day sailing and more ambitious coastal cruising. The comfort ratio of 22.36 suggests a relatively quick motion in seaways, making it better suited for active sailors rather than those seeking the most comfortable ride possible. Hunter's focus on value and practicality shines through in this design, creating a capable platform for sailors looking to explore coastal waters without breaking the budget. The 16-horsepower engine provides adequate auxiliary power for maneuvering in tight quarters.

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Hunter's deck construction during this era used a balsa-cored deck that is prone to water intrusion around chainplates, stanchion bases, and deck hardware. Once wet, the balsa core loses structural integrity and delamination can spread significantly before becoming visible.
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The fin keel attachment uses keel bolts that pass through a relatively thin keel stub. Bolt corrosion and weeping around the keel-to-hull joint is commonly reported; the bilge sump area should be carefully inspected for rust staining or movement in the keel.
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Chainplate backing plates on this model are often undersized aluminum or mild steel plates embedded in the fiberglass structure, which corrode and can fail without obvious external symptoms. Removal and inspection of the interior liner is often required to assess their condition.
+ 5 more issues — see full list →
Market Price Estimate Beta
$1,895 – $20,000
typical asking price
Median $12,900  ·  13 listings used (2 outliers excluded)
All listings
$1,895 – $20,000 13
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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 31.33 ft / 9.55 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 26.25 ft / 8.00 m
Beam 10.92 ft / 3.33 m
Max Draft 5.30 ft / 1.62 m
Displacement 9,700.00 lb / 4,400 kg
Ballast 4,000.00 lb / 1,814 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 458.00 ft² / 42.55 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type B&R
Construction FG
Designer Cortland Steck
Builder Hunter Marine (USA)
First Built 1983
Last Built 1987
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Yanmar
Engine Type Diesel
Horsepower 16
Fuel Capacity 18 gals / 68 L
Water Capacity 33 gals / 125 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Hunter 31's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Hunter 31 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.17. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Hunter 31's comfort ratio?

The Hunter 31 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 22.36. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Hunter 31 safe for offshore sailing?

The Hunter 31 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.05. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Hunter 31?

The theoretical hull speed of the Hunter 31 is 6.87 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Hunter 31 weigh?

The Hunter 31 has a displacement of 9,700.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 31.33 ft.

How much does a used Hunter 31 cost?

Based on 13 recent market listings, used Hunter 31 sailboats typically sell for between $1,895 and $20,000, with a median asking price of $12,900. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Hunter 31?

The Hunter 31 was designed by Cortland Steck, first built in 1983.

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