Northshore 310 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Northshore 310 is celebrated for its agility and "sparky" performance, a hallmark of Rob Humphreys' design philosophy. Unlike its Southerly siblings, which prioritize shallow-draft flexibility, the 310 was often fitted with either a deep fin keel or a high-performance wing keel, the latter of which allowed for a more moderate draft without a catastrophic loss of upwind lift. With a Displacement/Length ratio on the lighter side of the cruising spectrum and a generous sail area-to-displacement ratio (typically hovering around 18.5), the boat excels in light-to-moderate airs.

Owner reports and period reviews, such as those archived by Yachting Monthly, highlight the boat's balanced helm and responsiveness. The fractional rig offers significant control over sail shape, making it a favorite for "round-the-cans" racing. Under power, most units were originally equipped with the Volvo Penta 2000 series, providing adequate thrust, though the boat's lightweight nature means it can be prone to windage when maneuvering in tight marinas.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a performance-oriented 31-footer, the Northshore 310 offers a surprisingly functional and spacious interior. The layout is conventional but well-executed, featuring a dedicated navigation station to starboard and a galley to port. The use of teak veneers and light-colored headliners reflects the high-quality craftsmanship of the Northshore yard. One of the most significant variations found on the used market is the choice between the "Club" and "Circuit" specifications, which altered the rig height and interior fit-out slightly to favor either cruising comfort or racing weight-savings.

The aft cabin is a standout feature for a boat of this size, providing a genuine double berth that is tucked under the cockpit sole, while the forward V-berth offers additional accommodation for guests or children. Headroom is generous for a 31-foot vessel, maintaining roughly 6 feet in the main saloon. The sibling MG 335 offers a similar aesthetic but provides significantly more volume for those planning longer coastal passages.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Northshore 310 with a focus on structural integrity and rig age. As a performance-oriented hull, many of these vessels have been campaigned hard in club races.

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many Northshore builds from the late 80s, the deck uses a balsa or foam core. Inspect for "spongy" areas around high-load deck hardware (winches and track), which may indicate water ingress and delamination.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the high-aspect fin keel options, the keel bolts and the surrounding fiberglass "grid" should be inspected for stress fractures, particularly if the boat has a history of groundings during racing.
• Window Leaks: The sleek, elongated cabin windows are prone to seal failure over time. Evidence of water staining on the internal teak joinery is a common indicator that the windows require re-bedding.
• Engine Maintenance: The original Volvo Penta 2002/2003 engines are robust but can suffer from "coked up" exhaust elbows or raw-water cooling blockages. Many well-maintained 310s have been repowered with modern Yanmar or Beta units.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Northshore 310 and its MG siblings are often active within the broader Northshore community. Technical support and original build specifications can often be sourced through the Humphreys Yacht Design archives, as the firm maintains a strong interest in their legacy fleet. While there is no dedicated "310-only" association, owners frequently participate in the Southerly Owners Association technical forums, as the boats share many build techniques and hardware suppliers from the Chichester-based shipyard.

The Verdict

The Northshore 310 is a "sleeper" in the second-hand market, offering a level of sophistication and speed that belies its age. It is an ideal choice for the sailor who wants the pedigree of a premium British builder like Northshore but prefers the spirited handling of a modern performance cruiser over the heavy-displacement tradition of a motorsailer.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and upwind tracking.
• High-quality interior joinery typical of Northshore/Fairways Marine.
• The sugar-scoop stern provides easy water access and boarding.
• Active secondary market with good parts availability for the rig and deck gear.

Cons:

• Aft cabin can feel cramped for larger adults due to low overhead clearance.
• Original Volvo Penta engines may be nearing the end of their service life.
• The lightweight hull is less "sea-kindly" in heavy offshore conditions compared to the Vancouver or Southerly lines.