Rival 31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Rival 31 began in 1967, when Peter Brett, driven by a passion for offshore sailing, conceptualized her design. The first Rival 31 was launched in 1968, with production officially commencing in 1969. Marine Construction Ltd., led by the pioneering fiberglass boat builder Eric White, was entrusted with molding the hulls 4, 10, Builder Article. Marcon, active from 1964 to 1979, was known for its solid fiberglass construction and, uniquely for the era, offered boats in various stages of completion, including kits, to make yachting more accessible.

Peter Brett’s design philosophy for the Rival series emphasized offshore capability and owner-friendly interiors, focusing on creating yachts that were sturdy and capable for long-distance cruising. An early modification to the Rival 31 involved adjusting the original raking rudder stock to reduce weather helm, enhancing her handling characteristics. Only 22 examples of the Rival 31 were built, reflecting a specialized production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Rival 31 is characterized by its heavy displacement and robust build, attributes that translate directly into its sailing performance. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of 40%, the Rival 31 boasts significant internal stability, enabling her to stand up well to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Her displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at approximately 340.0, firmly places her in the category of heavy displacement cruisers, suggesting a powerful and forgiving ride rather than a light-air speedster.

Equipped with a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel, the Rival 31 offers a balance of directional stability and maneuverability. Owners frequently describe the Rival 31 as "bulletproof" and well-suited for various cruising grounds, including the challenging conditions around the British Isles. Anecdotal evidence suggests she performs respectfully in moderate winds (Force 3), affirming her status as a dependable cruiser that prioritizes seaworthiness over outright speed. Her design has a successful history of both single-handed and ocean sailing, further solidifying her reputation as a reliable blue-water vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts can vary, the Rival 31 was designed with practical cruising in mind, aiming for owner-friendly accommodations below deck. Typically, the interior features functional living spaces, with a layout that would have been common for a 31-foot cruiser of her era. Descriptions suggest that the heads compartment and a drying cupboard are generally situated between the main saloon and the forepeak cabin, optimizing space for living and storage. The vessel typically includes a water capacity of 30 gallons, which supports extended time aboard. Though detailed finish quality information is sparse, the general ethos of Rival Yachts suggested an emphasis on robust construction and functional design, providing "full accommodations below" for comfortable cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Rival 31 consistently praise the boat's solid construction and exceptional seaworthiness, often referring to it as a "bulletproof" vessel. Many appreciate its suitability for both coastal cruising and more ambitious offshore passages, highlighting its reliability and ability to handle diverse sea conditions. The Rival Owners Association serves as an active community, providing support and a forum for sharing knowledge and experiences among enthusiasts. As with any yacht of her vintage, common maintenance considerations include addressing wear on original components, such as the potential for decaying original wood, which is a typical aspect of owning and restoring classic fiberglass boats. Overall, the Rival 31 is cherished for its enduring quality and robust design, fulfilling its role as a capable and trusted cruising yacht.