She 31 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The SHE 31's story begins in 1969 with its introduction by South Hants Engineering, a company founded by the Fitzgerald brothers in 1968. Located in the maritime-rich Southampton area of the UK, SHE quickly established itself by exclusively building yachts designed by Sparkman & Stephens, a partnership that underscored their commitment to proven naval architecture and high-quality fiberglass construction. The SHE 31, specifically Sparkman & Stephens design #1899, benefited from this ethos, translating S&S's reputation for elegant lines, efficient underwater profiles, and robust build quality into a production sailboat., 8, 26] Olin Stephens II, a highly influential designer of the 20th century, championed a philosophy that emphasized performance optimization, ensuring the SHE 31 was both aesthetically pleasing and dynamically capable.

During its production run, the SHE 31 design saw several notable variations and sister models. It was also known as the DELTA 94, representing a later evolution of the original design, with some Delta 94 hulls built by South Hants Engineering and finished by other firms like Laird Adams Engineering. A cruising variant, the SHE 9.5 TRAVELLER, was also offered, featuring slightly increased headroom and a revised, more practical interior layout. Furthermore, the design was licensed for production in Sweden as the IW-31, built by IW-Varvet, with approximately 350 examples produced until 1985, significantly expanding its reach and legacy.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The SHE 31's design incorporates a sharp bow profile, a swept-back fin keel, and a skeg-hung rudder, contributing to its responsive handling and strong performance characteristics. With a reported sail area of 410 square feet and a displacement of 7,800 pounds, the SHE 31 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.68. This suggests a balanced performance profile, capable in a range of conditions, rather than being an extreme light-air specialist. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.436 indicates a stiff and stable yacht, able to stand up to significant wind and maintain its sail plan effectively. This stability also translates to an excellent righting capability.

The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at roughly 327, classifies the SHE 31 as a heavy displacement vessel for its 22-foot waterline. This heavy displacement, combined with the builder's reputation for robust construction, contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners and reviewers consistently describe the SHE 31 as fast, close-winded, and stable in nearly all sea conditions, with good upwind performance. It is noted for being nimble and pointing well in light airs, yet performing admirably when the wind increases. While generally a delight to steer, particularly under most points of sail, the helm may require consistent attention and cannot be left unattended for extended periods. The masthead sloop rig simplifies sail handling compared to fractional rigs.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just over 30 feet, the SHE 31 offers a surprisingly spacious and comfortable interior, highlighted by ample headroom and generous stowage options for its era. A 1970 review noted standing headroom at 5 feet, with some taller owners (5'10") finding it adequate. While specific layouts can vary, particularly between the original SHE 31 and the SHE 9.5 Traveller variant with its "more practical interior," the typical arrangement likely includes a V-berth forward, followed by a head compartment, a main salon with settees and a table, a compact galley, and potentially quarter berths aft.

The interior finish generally reflects the builder's commitment to high-quality fiberglass yachts, often featuring well-finished fiberglass structures complemented by wood trim. The emphasis was on creating a functional and robust cruising environment, in line with the S&S design philosophy for capable offshore and coastal sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the SHE 31 frequently praise its solid construction and the overall quality inherent in a Sparkman & Stephens design built by South Hants Engineering. Many appreciate its comfortable motion in a seaway, a direct benefit of its heavy displacement and stable hull form. The boat's elegant lines continue to draw admiring glances, and its ability to perform well to windward and be simple to singlehand are often highlighted as significant strengths. The enduring appeal of these vessels is evident in their continued presence in sailing communities, often cherished by owners who value classic fiberglass yachts that offer both sailing pleasure and a piece of maritime history.

However, common maintenance considerations for these nearly 50-year-old vessels include monitoring the balsa-cored deck for potential issues, as leaks can develop over time, requiring re-bedding of fittings. While generally a joy to steer, some owners note that the helm demands attention and cannot be left for extended durations. Despite these typical considerations for older yachts, the SHE 31 remains a highly regarded vessel, a testament to its timeless design and robust build quality.