Jeanneau Rush 31 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Rush 31 is defined by its IOR (International Offshore Rule) pedigree, which is evident in its relatively wide beam carried amidships and its pinched stern. However, unlike many contemporary designs that suffered from "twitchy" handling, Briand’s hull is noted for its balance and tracking ability. The boat was offered in several configurations: the standard GTE (Grand Tirant d’Eau) with a 1.70-meter deep draft, the PTE (Petit Tirant d’Eau) with a 1.40-meter shallow draft, and the specialized "Royale" racing version.

According to technical retrospectives from Jeanneau's historical archives, the Rush was engineered for stiffness and upwind efficiency. With a Sail Area/Displacement ratio that favors light-to-moderate air performance, the Rush is remarkably weatherly. Owners frequently report that the boat "comes alive" in 10 to 15 knots of breeze, where the deep lead or cast-iron fin keel provides significant righting moment. The semi-balanced spade rudder offers precise, albeit firm, feedback, though sailors used to modern twin-rudder designs may find it requires more attention when pressed hard on a reach.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 31-foot vessel designed in the late 1970s, the Rush offers a surprisingly voluminous interior that reflects Jeanneau’s commitment to "liveable boats." The layout is traditional: a forward V-berth, a central salon with twin settees and a folding centerline table, and a dedicated navigation station to starboard. The galley, situated to port, typically features a gimbaled stove and a deep icebox, though many have since been retrofitted with refrigeration.

The interior aesthetic is dominated by rich teak veneers and molded fiberglass liners, which were a hallmark of Jeanneau’s construction at the time. While the standard cruising version provides comfortable accommodations for a family of four, the "Rush Royale" variant—used famously as the one-design fleet for the Tour de France à la Voile—often featured a more Spartan interior to save weight for racing. Headroom is generous at approximately 1.85 meters (6'1") in the main cabin, a feat achieved without making the coachroof appear overly bulky from the exterior profile.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Rush 31 earned its place in sailing lore primarily through its selection as the official boat for the Tour de France à la Voile in 1982 and 1983. This grueling offshore race around the coast of France demanded a boat that was both fast and rugged enough to withstand offshore conditions. The "Rush Royale" variant used in the race featured a taller, triple-spreader mast and increased ballast, proving that the base Briand hull was capable of professional-grade competition.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Rush 31 with a focus on its 1980s construction methods. While the hulls are generally robust, there are specific areas that require scrutiny:

• Original Engines: Many Rush 31s were originally fitted with Renault Marine Couach or early Yanmar engines. The Renault units are increasingly difficult to find parts for, and many hulls have undergone—or are due for—a "re-powering" with modern Volvo Penta or Yanmar diesels.
• Osmotic Blistering: Like many production boats of this era, the Rush is susceptible to hull osmosis if the gelcoat was not properly maintained or epoxy-coated. A moisture meter test during survey is essential.
• Chainplate Reinforcement: On boats that have been raced heavily (particularly the Royale models), the chainplates and their attachments to the bulkheads should be inspected for stress fractures or signs of movement.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is a high-load component. Excessive play in the rudder stock often indicates worn nylon bushings that will require replacement to restore steering feel.

Community & Resources

The Rush 31 benefits from a dedicated European following. The most prominent resource is the Jeanneau Owners Network, an independent organization that maintains a technical database and owner forums specifically for legacy models like the Rush. In France, the boat remains a favorite for "Refit" projects, with frequent technical discussions appearing in French sailing publications such as Voiles et Voiliers.

The Verdict

The Jeanneau Rush 31 is an excellent choice for the sailor who desires a classic aesthetic paired with legitimate performance credentials. It bridges the gap between a fragile racing machine and a heavy cruising slug, offering a versatile platform for both club racing and weekend coastal hopping.

Pros:

• Exceptional Heritage: A Philippe Briand classic with a proven racing pedigree.
• Pointability: Superior upwind performance compared to many modern high-volume cruisers.
• Value: Offers a high level of construction quality for a relatively low entry price on the used market.

Cons:

• Aging Systems: Original plumbing, wiring, and engines often require significant updates.
• Tight Stern: The narrow IOR transom makes for a small cockpit by modern standards and lacks an integrated swim platform.
• Balsa Core Concerns: Like many boats of its age, deck soft spots can occur if hardware has not been re-bedded.