Corsair 31/F-31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Corsair 31/F-31 entered production in 1991 and continued to be built until 2012, proving to be one of the most successful Farrier/Corsair designs with 303 units built. Ian Farrier, the original designer for all Corsair boats, established the brand's reputation for innovation and speed, particularly through his revolutionary folding system for easy road transport. This design ethos aimed to attract new sailors by offering the thrill of multihull performance alongside the convenience of a trailerable boat.

The F-31 evolved from the F-9A, initially offered as a stock plan, and built upon the success of earlier designs like the F-27. During its production run, Corsair Marine offered significant variations, including aft cockpit (AC) and center cockpit (CC) models, catering to different cruising preferences. Additionally, an 'R' (racing) option was available, featuring a bowsprit and a carbon spar to enhance performance. Even after the design relationship with Ian Farrier concluded around 2000, the F-31 continued to be produced, a testament to its enduring design and appeal.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Corsair 31/F-31 is lauded for its impressive acceleration and overall speed, with reports of hitting 18 knots on a tight reach in just 12 knots of wind. With a reported sail area of 645 square feet and a light displacement of 4,600 lbs, the F-31 is designed for spirited sailing. Its fractional sloop rig and multiple rudders contribute to its efficient and easy handling in varying conditions. Owners and reviewers often describe the F-31 as a high-performance boat that planes early and excels in handling short, steep chop without excessive hobby-horsing, a characteristic highly valued in trimaran designs. The ability of the main hull to plane early on contributes significantly to its high-speed performance.

The trimaran configuration provides inherent stability, allowing the Corsair 31 to maintain remarkable stability and comfort even at high speeds, often exceeding 20 knots. While some owners have noted a significant difference in relative speed between light and heavy air, this is a common characteristic for many performance multihulls. The impressive 22.42-foot beam in sailing mode, which folds down to a trailerable 8.16 feet, underscores its unique blend of performance and practicality.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Corsair 31/F-31 prioritizes performance, it also offers a functional and surprisingly comfortable interior for a performance trimaran of its size. The typical layout, often highlighted in reviews, aims to maximize the living quarters within the main hull, recognizing the inherent compromise in interior volume compared to monohulls of similar length. The F-31 UC (Ultimate Cruiser) model, for instance, is noted for its full salon and an aft cabin that is unobstructed, providing standing headroom.

Generally, the interior includes a V-berth forward, a head, a main salon area, and sometimes quarter berths depending on the specific model (AC or CC). The aft cockpit (AC) model often features a more open and longer cockpit, while the main cabin is larger and includes an interior. The forepeak area typically houses the head. Owners often find the finish quality to be robust, utilizing fiberglass composite materials, consistent with Corsair Marine's focus on lightweight yet durable construction. Storage is generally sufficient for weekend cruising and short-term trips, and ventilation is typically achieved through hatches and ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Corsair 31/F-31 frequently praise its solid construction and exhilarating performance. The ability to trailer the boat easily is consistently cited as a major advantage, offering unparalleled flexibility for exploring different cruising grounds and minimizing slip fees. Many owners appreciate its speed and stability, highlighting its capability for exciting sailing while still providing a comfortable experience. The active global Corsair owner community further enriches the ownership experience, with regattas and "Safaris" organized frequently.

However, some owners have noted common maintenance considerations. While overall construction is generally good, instances of stress fractures around compression pads have been reported by some F-boat owners. Additionally, although it is an exceptional performer, some owners have reported problems with the boat, though the specific nature of these issues is not always detailed. Despite these minor concerns, the Corsair 31/F-31 maintains a strong reputation for being a fun, fast, and versatile trimaran, appealing to a wide range of sailors seeking performance combined with convenience.