Camper & Nicholsons Nicholson 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nicholson 31 is a quintessential heavy-displacement cruiser, designed more for momentum and sea-kindliness than for light-air agility. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans heavily toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the spectrum, the boat excels when the wind rises above 15 knots. Its handling is characterized by a high degree of directional stability, thanks to the long-keel configuration and a substantial transom-hung rudder. According to editorial testing by Yachting Monthly, the boat is notably "stiff," standing up well to its canvas and providing a secure, predictable motion in a seaway.

The sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative, reflecting its purpose as a safe offshore platform rather than a racer. However, the hull features a slightly more cutaway forefoot than the older Nicholson 32, which allows it to tack more reliably and reduces the "tripping" sensation in following seas. Owners often report that while it may not point as high as a modern fin-keel yacht, it tracks beautifully, allowing the windvane or autopilot to work with minimal effort—a vital trait for solo or short-handed long-distance sailing.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Inside, the Nicholson 31 benefits immensely from its 10-foot 3-inch beam, which was considered quite wide for a 31-footer in the mid-70s. The layout is a classic offshore arrangement: a forward V-berth, a full-width heads compartment, and a main saloon with a folding table. The use of high-quality teak joinery throughout gives the cabin a warm, traditional feel that has aged significantly better than the modular interiors of its contemporaries. One of the standout features for the blue-water sailor is the deep, secure galley and the dedicated, forward-facing navigation station—features often sacrificed in modern yachts of this size.

While the Nicholson 31 did not have the sheer number of cabin variations seen in modern French production boats, there is a notable "sibling" history. After Camper & Nicholsons ceased production, the molds were eventually used to create the Barbican 33. This sibling model utilized the same Ray Wall hull lines but featured a modified deck molding and often a different interior finish, sometimes sold as a kit for home completion. Consequently, those seeking the Nicholson 31's sea-keeping qualities but desiring a slightly more modern deck layout often look toward the Barbican 33 as a direct descendant.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nicholson 31 has maintained a quiet but firm cultural footprint among the "serious" cruising community. It is frequently cited in blue-water literature as a benchmark for what a small, safe cruising yacht should be. Its pedigree is further bolstered by the Nicholson 31 Association, a high-authority technical body that maintains extensive records of the fleet and organizes rallies. The model's durability is well-documented in various "used boat" features in British yachting press, where it is consistently recommended for sailors looking to cross the Atlantic or cruise the high latitudes on a budget.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Nicholson 31 with an understanding of its age, focusing on the following technical areas:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Nicholson 31 used a balsa-cored deck. Buyers should check for soft spots or delamination, particularly around stanchion bases and the mast step, where moisture ingress can rot the core.
• Engine Replacement: Many original hulls were fitted with the Bukh DV20 or early Yanmar engines. While robust, many of these are nearing the end of their service life or have already been replaced. A documented engine refit is a significant value-add.
• Osmosis: While the hulls are thick, they were built before the widespread use of isophthalic resins. While rarely a structural threat on a boat of this scantling, many Nicholson 31s will show signs of "the blisters" and may require a localized or full epoxy treatment.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Given the boat's offshore mission, the original chainplates and standing rigging should be meticulously inspected for fatigue, especially if the boat has multiple ocean crossings in its logbook.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and owner support is the Nicholson 31 Association. This group provides a wealth of model-specific information, including original drawings, sail plans, and a community-driven database of modifications and repairs. For broader historical context on the builder, the archives of the Royal Yacht Squadron and various British maritime museums often contain references to the "Nic 31" as one of the last great traditional designs from the Gosport yard.

The Verdict

The Nicholson 31 is a "sailor’s sailboat," designed for those who value safety and structural integrity over flat-out speed or marina-side ergonomics. It remains one of the most capable 31-footers ever built.

Pros:

• Exceptional sea-keeping and heavy-weather stability.
• Heavy-duty GRP construction with an encapsulated keel.
• High-quality traditional interior with a functional offshore layout.
• Strong class association and enduring resale value.

Cons:

• Slow in light winds due to high displacement.
• Challenging to maneuver in tight marinas under power (typical of long-keelers).
• Potential for deck core issues common to its era.