Atalanta 31 (UK) Information, Review, Specs

The Atalanta 31's lineage traces back to 1956, with its prototype appearing in 1962, as Fairey Marine Ltd, under the guidance of Sir Charles Richard Fairey and Mr. Chichester-Smith, sought to apply their renowned aviation-derived hot-molding techniques to larger yachts. The company's unique construction method, involving plywood veneers molded under heat and pressure, yielded hulls that were exceptionally strong, lightweight, and durable, setting a revolutionary standard for the era. The Atalanta 31 was essentially an evolution of the successful Atalanta 26, incorporating the same fundamental design principles, particularly the innovative twin lifting keels and a center cockpit layout. This design was envisioned to provide full standing headroom and increased internal space, catering to a demand for greater cruising comfort and performance in a yacht of this size. Fairey Marine built a limited number of these vessels, with production figures indicating only 12 Atalanta 31 hulls were completed. While most featured the twin lifting keels, at least one variant (A31-12) was fitted with bilge keels and a skeg rudder, indicating some flexibility in the production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Atalanta 31 boasts a twin keel configuration, offering variable draft from a minimum of 2.0 feet to a maximum of 7.0 feet, which provides significant flexibility for exploring shallow waters or drying out, while still allowing for enhanced upwind performance when the keels are fully deployed. With a displacement of 8,000 lbs and a ballast of 2,000 lbs, the vessel has a ballast-to-displacement ratio of approximately 0.25. While this suggests a moderate amount of ballast relative to its overall weight, Fairey Marine's hot-molded construction contributed to inherently stiff and seaworthy hulls, renowned for their responsiveness. The displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at around 181.44 based on its 27-foot waterline, categorizes the Atalanta 31 as a relatively lighter, more performance-oriented cruiser for its length, consistent with Fairey Marine's focus on efficient and responsive designs. The hull speed is estimated at 6.96 knots. While specific anecdotal descriptions of the Atalanta 31's handling are less common, its design lineage and builder's reputation suggest a yacht that is balanced and performs well in varied sea states, a hallmark of Uffa Fox's designs and Fairey Marine's robust construction. It is noted that, by modern standards, the total sail area of the Atalanta 31 is considered relatively small.

Accommodations and Layout

The Atalanta 31 was designed with an emphasis on maximizing interior volume, offering notably more space compared to its smaller Atalanta 26 counterpart. A key feature of the design is its full standing headroom, reported to be 6 feet 3 inches (1.91 meters), which significantly enhances comfort below deck. While detailed interior layouts are less documented, the increased internal space allowed for various arrangements designed for cruising. Available photographic evidence indicates that the bow section typically incorporated a heads compartment along with storage areas, often utilized for sails. The center cockpit layout, characteristic of the Atalanta series, would have allowed for a more separated and private aft cabin area, though specific details of the sleeping arrangements and galley facilities are not widely published. The general finish quality, given Fairey Marine's background, would have emphasized durable, hot-molded wood materials, offering a classic and robust interior.

Owner's Perspectives

The legacy of the Atalanta 31, and indeed the entire Atalanta class, is preserved by a dedicated community of enthusiasts. The Atalanta Owners Association (AOA), formed in 1958, actively maintains a register of Fairey Marine yachts, including the Atalanta 31s, highlighting the enduring appeal and commitment of its owners. This active association suggests a strong owner network that supports the preservation and continued enjoyment of these classic vessels. Owners consistently value the unique construction, historical significance, and the robust sea-keeping abilities that define Fairey Marine's yachts.