Design and Construction
Both hull and deck are solid fiberglass and the keel is lead. The length-to-beam ratio is 3.15 and the displacement-length ratio is 253, which categorizes her among moderate racers. The wetted surface is about 290 square feet and the immersion rate is 877 pounds per inch. The capsize screening value is 1.86 and the Motion Comfort Ratio is 25.4.
Rig and Sail Plan
The boat carries a fractional sloop rig. The sail-area-to-displacement is 17.8 with the ISO reference sail and 20.5 with a 135 percent genoa. She carries more rig than 58 percent of similar sailboats, interpreted as slightly overrigged. The theoretical hull speed is 6.8 knots and a calculated maximum near 5.2 knots was logged for the Volvo Penta MD2020 version.
Engine and Systems
Several engine alternatives were offered, including an inboard Volvo Penta diesel and the MD2020 with a saildrive. The spec record also lists a Volvo Penta MD2002 of 18 horsepower as a known fit. The saildrive variant penetrates the hull structure rather than a conventional shaft log.
The Verdict
The Inferno 31 is a compact, slightly overrigged Swedish fractional sloop blending moderate-racer kinetics with cruiser-grade stability, best for a sailor wanting a small boat that sails like a bigger one.
Pros
- Lead fin keel with 44 percent ballast ratio on solid fiberglass
- Slightly overrigged fractional sloop (SA/D to 20.5 with 135% genoa)
- Capsize screen of 1.86 and comfort ratio of 25.4
Cons
- Saildrive option complicates below-waterline service
- Lean 3.15 L/B beam limits interior volume versus wider contemporaries
