Viksund 31 Goldfish MS Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Viksund 31 Goldfish MS in 1972 marked a significant point for Viksund Boats. Founded in 1966 by Erling Viksund, the company was a pioneer in Scandinavia for its early adoption of fiberglass (FRP) in marine construction, a material chosen for its durability and reduced maintenance requirements. Viksund's manufacturing ethos, deeply rooted in the rugged Norwegian environment, prioritized building resilient and practical vessels capable of conquering the demanding Nordic seas. The 31 Goldfish MS, a motorsailer, embodies this philosophy, designed to be exceptionally seaworthy. Production of the model is noted to have run approximately from 1971 to 1980. During its production run, there were variations, including models featuring a "high rig" and a "deep keel" with an additional ton of ballast, enhancing its stability and sailing characteristics. Some versions also featured a "small superstructure," indicating minor aesthetic or functional variations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Viksund 31 Goldfish MS is configured as a masthead ketch, a rigging type generally recognized for its ease of handling due to smaller, more manageable sail sizes. With a reported sail area of 451 square feet and a displacement of 9,921 pounds, its sail area-to-displacement ratio (SA/Disp) is approximately 15.54. This relatively low ratio suggests that the Goldfish MS is not a light-air performance cruiser but rather a sturdy motorsailer designed for comfortable passage-making, often relying on its engine in lighter winds.

Its ballast-to-displacement ratio stands at a substantial 0.444 (4,409 lbs ballast out of 9,921 lbs displacement). This high ratio indicates excellent initial stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a blow and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. The long keel hull type further contributes to its directional stability and robust performance in varied sea states, aligning with its reputation for "extreme seaworthiness." Owners frequently commend the boat for its solid and safe handling, reinforcing its reputation as a dependable family cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Viksund 31 Goldfish MS are not widely documented, it is understood to offer practical accommodations typical of a motorsailer of its era and size. These vessels are generally designed to maximize interior volume for comfort, prioritizing living space over pure sailing performance. Based on general observations of similar boats from the period and builder, the interior would likely feature a sensible arrangement for a cruising couple or small family, including a main salon, a galley area, and sleeping berths. The construction materials typically favored by Viksund emphasized durability, with fiberglass being the primary hull and deck material. While exact headroom figures are not available, it is designed for comfortable living aboard, suitable for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Viksund 31 Goldfish MS consistently praise its robust construction and inherent seaworthiness, often describing it as a "solid, safe and good family-friendly boat." Its ability to handle challenging conditions with stability and confidence is a recurring theme, with some owners touting its "extreme seaworthiness" and suggesting it's hard to find a better boat in this regard. The boat's ketch rig is also appreciated for making sail handling easier. While specific recurring problems are not commonly detailed in general discussions, like any vessel of its age, a pre-owned Viksund 31 Goldfish MS may require typical maintenance and attention to systems that have aged over time.