Timeless classics: four 9-meter boats that made history

The used boat market often features evergreens, boats that may not be too common but are highly sought after by enthusiasts who have a clear idea in mind of the model they are looking for. In this installment devoted to the used boat market we go over some models that occupy the 9-meter segment. Some have been super classics, others are less well known.

Pierrot

The Pierrot built by the Mariver shipyard was born in 1969, the first series with a length of 9.15 m (and 3.20 width), then increased to 9.25 m with a larger transom momentum. Produced in about 50 copies, designed by Sciomachen. Below deck, V-shaped cabin in the bow; convertible dinette for three berths in the center on the port side and the galley-carte block on the starboard side. Aft on port side is bathroom, starboard is navigator’s berth. Level sailing performance.

Timeless boats: CPR Zigurrat 916

One of Andrea Vallicelli’s first boats very much characterized by the design trends of the time, with a “pointy” stern and a generous sail plan that makes it an excellent light-wind boat.

Spartan but rational interior with seven berths, thanks to double berths per broadside in square. To be well checked the condition of fiberglass and the attachments of lanes and bulb.

Timeless boats: Farr 31 HT

The Farr 31, mass-built by the Artmare shipyard from corrugated fiberglass sandwich, is one of the legendary boats in sailing history. Designed by Bruce Farr, it won the Half Ton Cup in 1977 (pictured is the prototype Gunboat Rangiriri, still sailing). Very fast, with a sail plan that is still current and a large cockpit. Not to be confused with CBZ Shipyard’s Farr 31 IMS of the 1990s, which cannot be considered a true half-tonner.

Timeless boats: First 30 E

Designed by Jean Berret, an evolution of a racing prototype that won the 1981 Half Ton Cup, the First 30 E was produced from ’80 to ’84 in about 450 examples. Fast already in light winds, it has a pleasing and still relevant aesthetic. Basic but quite comfortable interior with a forward cabin, a nice convertible dinette, galley, toilet, and a large aft berth with access from the chart area. The construction is traditional fiberglass. It is necessary to check well that there is no osmosis. There is a version with an enlarged shaft and deeper bulb called 30 ES. Be careful not to confuse it with the First 30 which is an earlier model.