Delta 31 vs Herreshoff 31
How do the Delta 31 and Herreshoff 31 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
Delta 31 | Delta 31 | Herreshoff 31 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 30.7 ft9.35 m | 30.8 ft9.40 m |
| Waterline length | 24.9 ft7.60 m | 28.0 ft8.53 m |
| Beam | 10.0 ft3.04 m | 10.3 ft3.15 m |
| Draft | 5.9 ft1.80 m | 4.0 ft1.22 m |
| Displacement | 8,598 lb3,900 kg | 7,560 lb3,429 kg |
| Ballast | 3,505 lb1,590 kg | 3,350 lb1,520 kg |
| Sail area | 436 ft²40.5 m² | 641 ft²59.6 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 16.62 | 26.63 |
| Displacement / Length | 248 | 154 |
| Comfort ratio | 23.3 | 18.1 |
| Capsize screening | 1.95 | 2.11 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 6.7 | 7.1 |
Delta 31 vs Herreshoff 31: the short version
- The Delta 31 and Herreshoff 31 are close in length (30.7 ft9.35 m vs 30.8 ft9.40 m ).
- The Delta 31 is heavier, displacing about 14% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Herreshoff 31 carries the more powerful rig (26.6 vs 16.6), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Delta 31 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Delta 31 rates better for offshore work (1.95 vs 2.11).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.