MULTICHINE 31

f you want to build your own boat, but don`t want a difficult job, the Multichine 31 is the right answer. The polygonal cross sections typical of Multichines are a welcome simplification in hull construction. A large volume for less size and superb aesthetics make this boat a great option in the 31 feet range.

The constructive method adopted in this design is simple, strong and immensely durable.The process consists of applying sheets of 10 mm plywood, glued with epoxy,over the stuctural framing and then encapsulating the whole hull with fiberglass reinforced plastic. Internally, two coats of epoxy should be applied to ensure a perfect saturation of the plywood surface. The whole construction is quick and simple. An average of 1400 man/hours is enough to complete the boat. The construction, in some aspects is a break-through. The frames are built on the work bench, together with the deck-beams, cockpit framing, and even the transversal furniture. When the boat is assembled an important part of the finishing job is already performed, saving precious time and enhancing the precision and quality of the job. The finished boat is immensely strong, placing the Multichine 31 among the most able cruising sail boats.

The inside layout of this boat is unquestionably one of the largest ever found in yachts of this size. Under the main hatch is placed the engine compartment. Just in front of the engine, a bulkhead separates to starboard, the main saloon from the aft cabin, and to the port side is placed a heads comfortable enough to have a shower with standing head room. Going forward there is a galley to portside with two sinks, refrigerator and a gimballed stove with oven.Oppositely is placed the navigation station with a wet suit locker aft of the back rest of the navigator. The navigation table is large enough to accommodate a chart folded in half. Just in front a huge U shaped dinette allows seven persons to seat comfortably or two adults to sleep, one on each side A curtain separates the main saloon from a second double berth placed above the height of the dinettes front seat. Under the forward bunk there is plenty of stowage space for large items like inflatable dinghy, sails , spare anchors, etc.

The deck layout with a wedged cabin trunk and a well protected cockpit area, is clean and unobstructed. The traveller placed in front of the main hatch gives space for a dodger that can extend to the front part of the cockpit, a welcome feature when the foredeck gets wet.

The rig is simple and strong, allowing easy manoeuvrability with plenty of safety margin. The stability is high partly in function of an enormous beam at the water line, and partly because of a high ballast ratio.

Whoever builds one of these boats will fulfil a deserved sentiment of pride and accomplishment, and will find himself owning one of the most interesting boats of this size.