Seafarer 31 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

The Seafarer 31 Mk II entered production in 1974, succeeding the original Seafarer 31 designed by Bill Tripp. This transition marked a period where most of Seafarer's designs originated from the reputable firm of McCurdy & Rhodes. The company, Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts, Inc. of Huntington, New York, had shifted from importing yachts to direct boat building in 1965, establishing its own plant. During this era, Seafarer cultivated an identity strongly shaped by its commitment to quality and thoughtful design, evident in its consistent collaboration with elite naval architects.

The design philosophy behind the Seafarer 31 Mk II, as articulated by McCurdy & Rhodes, aimed to create a robust and stable mid-sized cruiser capable of serious cruising. A shoal draft version of the Seafarer 31 Mk II was also available, offering a reduced draft of 4.92 feet (1.5m) compared to the standard 5.25 feet, providing versatility for different cruising grounds. Seafarer also notably offered many of their models in kit form, appealing to owners who wished to complete their yachts themselves.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a displacement of 10,300 lbs and a waterline length of 25.08 feet, the Seafarer 31 Mk II is considered a moderate to medium-heavy displacement vessel with a Displacement to Length Ratio (DLR) of approximately 291.75. Its sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) is around 15.39, which suggests it is moderately powered. While not a dedicated light-air flyer, its generous sail plan is reported to deliver good light-air performance for a boat of its type.

A significant characteristic of the Seafarer 31 Mk II is its high ballast to displacement ratio of 47.08%. This indicates a very stable and stiff boat, capable of standing up to more wind and offering a reassuring motion in various conditions. The fin keel and skeg-hung rudder further contribute to its sailing characteristics, providing good control and directional stability. Owners have described the Mk II as roomy, capable, and surprisingly fast. The hull speed of the Seafarer 31 Mk II is calculated at 6.71 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

The Seafarer 31 Mk II is known for its comfortable and spacious interior for a boat of its size. Although specific headroom details are not consistently listed, the design typically features a traditional layout. This generally includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment. The main salon often incorporates opposing settees that can serve as berths, with a folding table. A galley area is usually situated aft, commonly to port or starboard, offering basic amenities for cooking. Quarter berths are sometimes found aft, maximizing sleeping capacity. Owners often describe the Mk II as being very roomy, contributing to comfortable cruising. The fiberglass hull and deck, often with balsa core, provide a solid foundation for the interior finish.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally praise the Seafarer 31 Mk II for its robust construction, stability, and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. The generous interior space is frequently highlighted as a significant strength, making it a good choice for cruising. The high ballast ratio often instills confidence in its offshore capabilities. The Seafarer 31 Mk II is generally considered a capable mid-sized cruiser, appreciated for its reliability and handling characteristics. Common issues are not widely documented, however, general concerns for boats of this vintage might include the condition of the original deck fittings or the integrity of core materials if water intrusion has occurred, though no specific widespread issues were found. The Seafarer 31 Mk II maintains a strong following among enthusiasts who value classic designs and solid build quality.