Corvette 31 (C&C) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Corvette 31, named in honour of the World War II warship class, began its production run in 1966 and continued until 1971, with a total of 171 units built. This period marked a pivotal time for C&C, as the company was formalizing its structure from a collaboration of designers and builders into the powerhouse C&C Yachts. The Corvette 31's creation reflects C&C's early design philosophy, which aimed to produce yachts that excelled in both racing and cruising by utilizing innovative construction techniques. During this era, C&C became known for pioneering the use of balsa-cored fiberglass hulls to improve stiffness while reducing weight, and for their overall commitment to lightweight construction and rakish designs that proved effective on the racecourse.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.82, the C&C Corvette 31 offers a balanced performance profile, capable of good speeds without being overly sensitive in lighter airs. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 46.8% is notably high, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze and maintain a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement-to-length ratio (D/L) of around 335 places the Corvette 31 firmly in the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, suggesting a robust and sea-kindly vessel. Owners frequently describe the Corvette 31 as a comfortable cruiser with good motion comfort. Despite its traditional lines, it was considered quite lightweight for its time, contributing to its capable sailing characteristics. The design's versatility also extends to its keel configuration, often featuring a centerboard, which allows for a minimum draft of 3.25 feet and a maximum draft of 7.0 feet, offering flexibility for exploring shallower waters or optimizing performance offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed layouts of the C&C Corvette 31's interior can vary between individual boats due to modifications over time, the design typically offers a functional cruising setup within its 31-foot length. General consensus among owners suggests that the interiors, though practical, are somewhat compact for a vessel of this size. C&C's vessels from this era generally featured a classic marine interior finish, often incorporating warm wood trim against fiberglass liners, prioritizing durability and function. Given the boat's design from the 1960s, interior layouts would commonly include a forward V-berth, a head compartment, a salon area with settees that may convert to berths, and a compact galley. Storage would typically be provided through lockers and shelving, though space can be at a premium.

Owner's Perspectives

The C&C Corvette 31 has fostered a dedicated owner base, a testament to its enduring appeal and solid construction. Owners consistently praise the boat's superior building quality and its ability to retain value over the years. Its reputation for being a capable and comfortable cruiser in various conditions is a frequently cited strength. The longevity of the C&C brand and the existence of active owner communities, forums, and even annual rendezvous events further underscore the lasting quality and passion these boats inspire. Common observations regarding the Corvette 31 often mention the "deck plan isn't the greatest," and some owners have noted minor deck problems, though these are generally considered relatively easy and inexpensive to address. Additionally, early models with aluminum rudders have been an area of attention for some owners, with later production boats benefiting from fiberglass rudders.