Irwin 31 Citation Information, Review, Specs

The Irwin 31 Citation began its production run in 1983, continuing the legacy of Irwin Yachts as a prominent American sailboat manufacturer. Ted Irwin, the company's founder and primary designer, conceived the Citation series in the early 1980s. Irwin Yachts' design philosophy during this period was characterized by a dual focus: creating both capable performance vessels, influenced by Ted Irwin's personal interest in racing, and comfortable family cruisers suitable for the burgeoning charter market and general cruising.

Constructed primarily of fiberglass for both the hull and deck, the Irwin 31 Citation was part of a broader trend in the industry towards this durable and low-maintenance material. 1, 6, builder article While the exact end year for the 31 Citation's production is not definitively listed, Irwin Yachts ceased operations in 1992, suggesting its availability concluded around that time. Variations in keel configurations were available, including a standard fin keel with a maximum draft of 6.0 feet, and options for shallower drafts, such as a 4.0-foot fixed keel or a keel/centerboard version with a board-up draft of 4.0 feet and board-down draft of 8.92 feet. A wing keel was also noted as a special order option for some models.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 31 Citation is designed with a fin keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically indicative of good maneuverability and responsive handling. With a total sail area of 474 square feet and a displacement of 9,300 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio calculates to approximately 17.12. This places it in the moderate performance category, suggesting it is capable of good speed in a variety of wind conditions without being overly sensitive to light air or overpowered in heavy gusts.

The boat's ballast of 3,400 pounds relative to its displacement yields a Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.365 (36.5%). This moderate ratio contributes to the boat's described stability and stiffness, enabling it to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio is approximately 223.0, characterizing it as a moderate displacement vessel. This aligns with descriptions of the Irwin 31 Citation as a "moderate weight sailboat," capable of "reasonably good performance" without being an ultralight racer. Owners have generally found that the boat "does get moving" effectively when sailing. However, one assessment notes a "low righting capability if capsized," which is an important consideration for offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Irwin 31 Citation are not extensively documented in general search results, Irwin Yachts consistently aimed to create "practical and livable boats for cruising and liveaboard lifestyles." Boats of this size and era typically feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, a galley, and an enclosed head. Given its 11.0-foot beam, the 31 Citation would likely offer a relatively spacious interior for a boat of its length. Owners of Irwin boats from this period often highlight the emphasis on comfort and practicality in the accommodations, consistent with the builder's focus on the cruising and charter markets. Some owners have noted issues with "floor grids" in older models, which could be a point of inspection for potential buyers.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 31 Citation generally view it as a capable and accessible cruising sailboat. It is often described as a "budget boat," appealing to those seeking a cost-effective entry into boat ownership or a platform for restoration. While some observations suggest Irwin Citations are "not known for their rugged construction," this is often balanced by a recognition of their "reliable, well-designed" nature for their intended purpose. As with many boats of its vintage, routine maintenance is a common theme, with owners noting that "the fact they leak shouldn't be a surprise" after 30+ years, necessitating re-bedding of original deck fittings. The active community of Irwin owners provides a valuable resource for sharing experiences and advice, underscoring the enduring appeal and practicality of these vessels.