Herreshoff Fishers Island 31 Sailboats for Sale & Market Overview

The Herreshoff Fishers Island 31 (FI31) stands as one of the most refined examples of the "Owner’s Class" concept developed by the Herreshoff Manufacturing Company (HMCo) during the late 1920s. While its name suggests a smaller vessel, the "31" refers specifically to its 31-foot, 6-inch waterline length; the boat actually measures approximately 43 feet, 3 inches in overall length. Commissioned by members of the Fishers Island Yacht Club, a total of 14 hulls were produced between 1927 and 1930 (HMCo hull numbers 1076 through 1089). Designed by Nathanael G. Herreshoff at the height of his powers, the FI31 was intended to bridge the gap between a pure racing machine and a comfortable coastal cruiser, offering a level of seaworthiness that allowed these yachts to transit the often-treacherous waters of Long Island Sound and the Atlantic coast with ease. According to technical records held at the MIT Museum Herreshoff Collection, the design utilized a heavy-displacement hull with a full keel and an elegant fractional Marconi sloop rig, though some were later modified.