Hunter 170 vs Hunter 31
How do the Hunter 170 and Hunter 31 compare? Below, their dimensions, displacement, sail area and the standard design ratios side by side, followed by a data-driven summary.
| Hunter 170 | Hunter 31 | |
|---|---|---|
| Length overall | 17.1 ft5.21 m | 31.3 ft9.55 m |
| Waterline length | 12.1 ft3.68 m | 26.3 ft8.00 m |
| Beam | 7.0 ft2.13 m | 10.9 ft3.33 m |
| Draft | 4.5 ft1.37 m | 5.3 ft1.62 m |
| Displacement | 478 lb217 kg | 9,700 lb4,400 kg |
| Ballast | —— | 4,000 lb1,814 kg |
| Sail area | 134 ft²12.4 m² | 458 ft²42.5 m² |
| SA / Displacement | 35.07 | 16.11 |
| Displacement / Length | 121 | 239 |
| Comfort ratio | 4.1 | 22.4 |
| Capsize screening | 3.58 | 2.05 |
| Hull speed (kn) | 4.7 | 6.9 |
Hunter 170 vs Hunter 31: the short version
- The Hunter 31 is the larger boat at 31.3 ft9.55 m LOA versus 17.1 ft5.21 m for the Hunter 170.
- The Hunter 31 is heavier, displacing about 1929% more, which usually means a steadier but slower-to-accelerate hull.
- On sail area/displacement the Hunter 170 carries the more powerful rig (35.1 vs 16.1), favouring lighter-air performance.
- The Hunter 31 scores higher on the Brewer comfort ratio, suggesting an easier motion in a seaway.
- By the capsize screening formula the Hunter 31 rates better for offshore work (2.05 vs 3.58).
Ratios are guidelines computed from published specs; condition, layout and gear matter as much as the numbers.