The Elizabethan 31 is a classic sailing boat that was designed by David Thomas in the 1960s. It was built by the Elizabethan Yachts company in the United Kingdom and gained popularity as a cruising yacht during the 1970s and 1980s.
The Elizabethan 31 has a length overall (LOA) of 31 feet and a beam of 9 feet, making it a relatively compact yacht. It features a long fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, which provide stability and good handling characteristics. The boat has a displacement of around 8,000 pounds, making it relatively lightweight for its size.
One of the notable features of the Elizabethan 31 is its distinctive styling, with a pronounced sheerline and a raised coachroof. The boat has a spacious cockpit, which is well-protected and comfortable for cruising. The interior layout typically includes a forward cabin with a V-berth, a main saloon with a dinette that converts into a double berth, a galley, a navigation station, and a head compartment.
The Elizabethan 31 is known for its solid construction and seaworthiness. It is often praised for its good performance under sail, with a balanced rig and a moderate sail area. The boat is capable of handling a wide range of weather conditions and is often used for coastal cruising and offshore passages.
Over the years, the Elizabethan 31 has gained a reputation as a reliable and well-built yacht. It has a loyal following among sailing enthusiasts who appreciate its classic design, comfortable accommodations, and sailing capabilities. While production of the Elizabethan 31 ceased in the 1980s, many of these boats are still actively sailed and cherished by their owners.
