30 foot pearson sailboat

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Pearson 303

• By Bob Reeve
• Updated: April 22, 2008

Pearson303cp368

By the early 1980s, Pearson Yachts of Portsmouth, Rhode Island, had built more than 1,000 Bill Shaw-designed Pearson 30s. To replace that seemingly timeless design, in 1983 Shaw created the Pearson 303, and it’s an entirely different boat. More than 300 were built before production ceased in 1986.

Above the waterline, the Pearson 303’s hull is solid laminate. Balsa core is used in the bottom and in the deck. The rudder is mounted to a substantial skeg, which helps the boat track well downwind.

With its broad beam, the Pearson 303 is quite stiff, and it likes to be sailed on its feet to avoid excessive weather helm. It has a seakindly motion and offers a dry ride and a comfortable, “big boat” feel.

Four adults can occupy the cockpit in comfort. On early models, the mainsheet was at the end of the boom, and with primary winches mounted just forward of the wheel, one person can singlehand with ease. Later boats had midboom sheeting from a traveler on the coachroof. A single-spreader rig supports the keel-stepped mast.

The companionway steps are easily removed to expose the two-piece box surrounding the 13-horsepower Yanmar diesel that will move a P-303 through calm water at 6 knots. Some owners feel it has insufficient power in rough conditions.

The galley, to port just forward of the companionway, is small but adequate. Its best feature, the well-insulated 5-cubic-foot icebox, unfortunately drains to the bilge. Most boats were fitted with a two-burner Origo alcohol stove and a small single sink serviced by both pressure and foot-operated freshwater pumps. A deep bilge sump ensures that the cabin sole stays dry.

Aft to starboard is a large quarter berth. Lockers outboard of it convert readily to a navigation station; later models have a chart table fitted at which the navigator can work while seated at the head of the berth.

Port and starboard settees in the saloon are comfortable berths with the seatbacks removed. A dining table folds down from the starboard bulkhead and has a leaf that extends to the port bench to allow seating for four.

Forward of the saloon and to starboard is the head compartment. Quite large for a 30-foot boat, it has standing headroom, a handheld shower, and an electric pump to drain the sump overboard.

A bifold door opens into a truly comfortable owner’s cabin. It has a small bureau and a large V-berth. Headroom throughout the cabin is more than 6 feet. Large Bomar hatches, above both the forward and main cabins, and four large fixed ports and four opening ports provide plenty of light and air below.

At prices from $30,000 to $35,000 for examples in good condition, the Pearson 303 is an economical and versatile family cruiser from a builder with a reputation for producing solid and reliable boats.

Bob Reeve sails his Pearson 303, Evergreen, from Old Saybrook, Connecticut, with his wife, Susan, and their teenage daughters, Allison and Kristen.

• More: 31 - 40 ft , before 2000 , Coastal Cruising , keelboat , monohull , Pearson , Sailboat Reviews , Sailboats , sailboats classic plastic
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PRICE: A used P-30 can be found for between $5,000 and $19,000, depending on the year of construction, overall condition and amount of upgrades. DESIGN QUALITY: The boat's scimitar-shaped rudder and soft bushings have their detractors, but overall the P-30 stays in the winner's circle, especially its encapsulated hull that has no keel bolts and little maintenance. CONSTRUCTION QUALITY: Born in the days when fiberglass boats were typically overbuilt, the P-30 is no exception. The hull is solid, the deck hardware and standing rigging super strong. USER-FRIENDLINESS: The P-30 has a simple sailplan and easy onboard systems. It requires early reefing. It is easy to handle in a light breeze and a comfortable racer-cruiser despite the annoyance of a long tiller handle. The engine is accessible by lifting the companionway steps, but the oil dipstick is located on the back side and difficult to reach. The boat has a head but no shower. SAFETY: Like most racer-cruisers, it's a compromise design and should be reefed early and often. Upgrades such as a vang or traveler can help tame the relatively long boom. TYPICAL CONDITION: Used P-30s run the gamut from pristine to project boat, but the vast majority offer a solid hull, sound deck and reliable standing rigging. REFITTING: Of all needed improvements, most later owners seem to target the Atomic 4 for replacement by a diesel. This is likely the most expensive undertaking for a refit, followed by attention to the rudder post and to the compression post where the mast steps onto the keel. The latter is mostly labor since a new compression post can be easily fashioned. Since no sewage discharge laws were in effect when the P-30 was made, the head must be updated with a Y-valve and a waste holding tank in most waters. Many owners added a boom vang and a traveler to make sailing in big winds a bit easier. SUPPORT: An active group of P-30 owners can be found online at the Pearson Sailing Association of the Chesapeake Bay at the website www.cbpsa.org. Additional information on the P-30 is available at www.sailboatdata.com and on blogs posted by specific P-30 owners. AVAILABILITY: Plenty of P-30s are available on both the East and West coasts of the U.S., in Florida, Texas, the Great Lakes and Canada. INVESTMENT AND RESALE: Depending the degree of upkeep and overall condition, the P-30 can be a sound investment. Most owners do not consider the P-30 a bluewater boat so its value is limited to coastal cruising.

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• Allied Princess 36
• Kelly-Peterson 46

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Pearson Yachts Portal

The Pearson 30 : 1971–1980

We combined an advanced underwater configuration and powerful rig with graceful lines and spacious below-decks comfort to make the Pearson 30 a cruising man's racing boat... or vice versa

Fast and Beautiful

When we introduced the Pearson 30, she was thought of as a boat with the ability to "go both ways." We combined an advanced underwater configuration and powerful rig with graceful lines and spacious below-decks comfort to make the P30 a cruising man's racing boat... or vice versa.

Comments from cruising skippers like, "Really comfortable" and "Makes me feel like a better sailor," combined with the ability to perform on the race course - attest to the versatility of this honest boat. Further, the Pearson 30 is tangible evidence of Bill Shaw's contention that a fast boat can be beautiful.

Step aboard and study the clean, uncluttered lines and wide walkways. From the helm the visibility is excellent. Her 7'6" cockpit provides room for the whole family with cockpit stowage provided in a lazarette aft and a roomy sail locker to starboard. Her non-skid deck surfaces and that solid feeling underfoot are typical Pearson quality fiberglass construction.

Step below and see why so many racing skippers' wives find cruising a real pleasure aboard this versatile boat. Immediately to starboard at the bottom of the companionway is an "L" shaped galley with sink, icebox, optional 2-burner alcohol stove with stowage lockers and drawers below and above. To port, extending aft under the cockpit is a quarterberth with stowage under.

The main cabin offers room and accessibility while underway and comfortable accommodations while at anchor. The port berth which converts to a double serves to seat three at the bulkhead mounted table. Opposite, the starboard berth can seat three more with the bulkhead table leaf up.

Stowage is provided under both port and starboard berths and above in lockers and shelves. Large fixed ports let in plenty of light and, despite her low profile, there's 6'1" headroom below.

Forward is a large athwartships toilet room, a large hanging locker to port, and vanity unit with wash basin to starboard.

The forepeak has a huge double berth designed for comfort. Two fixed ports provide light, and overhead, the hatch makes for easy headsail changes. There's additional stowage below the berths and above on ample shelves.

Your choice of decorator fabrics is available to add that personal touch.

A compromise boat? Ask a crusing or racing family who owns one. And more importantly, check out the resale value of the Pearson 30 (if you can find a used one!).

Cast off and Come Sail With Us... then decide for yourself.

Pearson Yachts Inc. 1975

Pearson 30 On The Web

Pearson 30 Used Boat Review - SpinSheet Magazine

Pearson 30 Specifications - SailboatData.com

Pearson-Info P30 - dan.pfeiffer.net

Pearson 30 Resources

Pearson 30 Owners Guide - view

Pearson 30 Brochure - view

Pearson 30 Brochure

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Coaster 30 pearson

The coaster 30 pearson is a 30.0ft masthead sloop designed by william shaw and built in fiberglass by pearson yachts between 1966 and 1970..

The Coaster 30 pearson is a heavy sailboat which is slightly under powered. It is stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a coastal cruiser. The fuel capacity is originally small. There is a very short water supply range.

Coaster 30 pearson for sale elsewhere on the web:

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• Pearson Sailboats 30

Pearson Sailboats 30 Boats for sale

1985 Pearson 36

Coos Bay, Oregon

Make Pearson

Category Sloop

Posted Over 1 Month

As per the seller, this sailboat is in very good condition and ready for Spring sailing. The bottom was recently painted. The diesel engine in very good running condition. Camper Cover in good condition. Windows and portholes seals in great condition, no leaking. Sails and rigging are said to be in excellent condition. Stock #266359 1985 Pearson 36!! New rigging and sails!! Rebuilt Engine!! Camper Cover!! Located in Coos Bay, Oregon, this 36-foot Pearson is a great cutter sailboat. Pearson Yachts was a manufacturer of fiberglass sailboats in service from 1958 until 1990. The boat was hauled out five years ago to have the bottom repainted. The lead keel was in great condition along with the Stainless Steel bolts that hold it in place. The prop shaft strut was also custom-made and replaced. The sails, rigging, lines, and rolling jib were all replaced five years ago as well. The seller has recently spent 27K on many improvements. The blue Camper Cover/Dodger combination is in great condition with double-pane, Isinglass windows. The cabin has room to sleep six and two staterooms. Teak flooring, galley, head & shower, and dining drop down for sleeping area. Cushions have some wear but no rips. The electronics include a VHF radio, Bose stereo, one TV and a Raymarine C70 Chartplotter, fishfinder, GPS/radar, and four handheld radios. Head out confidently into the water with a Yanmar, 30 HP Diesel engine onboard, in case you need help getting home. Also included: - New rudder bearings. - Humidifier in the cabin. - Bilge pump. The 36 has lots of room for your family and friends, and all your boating gear. Don't miss out on your opportunity to own this Pearson sailboat! Reason for selling is not using anymore.

1973 Pearson 30

Onekama, Michigan

Category Sailboats

1973 Pearson 30 POPULAR CRUISER/RACER, PRICED TO SELL. 1973 Pearson 30 Sailboat w/30hp Atomic 4 Inboard. The Pearson 30 has long been a favorite in the Cruiser/Racer class. The 30 has an aft galley layout and sleeping for 6 with the convertible dinette. Head compartment features a marine toilet with holding tank. Large cockpit with pedestal steering. she includes 3 sails with bags, mainsail cover, electronics, safety equipment and more. She is priced to sell and ready to go. Call today.

1980 Pearson 30

Rochester, New York

1980 Pearson 30 This Pearson 30, #1193, was the last ever built. She is a strongly built and a great sailing, racer/cruiser for those on a budget looking for a popular class boat. Last survey says the boat is “Above Average!” She is exceptionally clean and ready for lake, bay or coastal cruising and/or some casual racing.

Bad Axe, Michigan

Length 30.0

This boat is in Great condition. Runs and sails Fantastic! New wiring, new compass, new CD player, 6 sails (all in great condition). Tons of extra parts for the motor! gas grill the mounts on the aft of the vessel, along with a gas 2 burner counter top stove,(with cover which is a cutting board)down below. comes with tons of extras! Emergency tiller, satellite GPS installed, auto pilot, (need gear box), marine radio, cigarette lighter, sliding chart table with drawer. all lights are in working order! Boat is in the water and ready for you to sail her home! Winter storage available.

1966 Pearson Coaster 30

St Augustine, Florida

Model Coaster 30

1966 Pearson Coaster 30 Adios is a new listing with upgrades .

Sailboat Pearson 30 ft

South Portland, Maine

Here is a rare opportunity to purchase a vessel with extensive upgrades for a fraction of cost. "Dancer" was purchased by the current owner in 2013, who replaced major systems and components with the intention of keeping her for many years. Over $30,000 was invested in the first year, however a sudden change of plans forces "Dancer" to go up for sale. All mechanical invoices are available for review. Upgrades include:New engine 2014New exhaust system 2013Cutlas bearing 2013Shaft and strut 2013Bilge pump 2013Propane system 2014New wheel 2014Sails---main and jib 2012 Please contact Eric Fortier at cell number 207-590-1360 (Toll-free 877-241-2594) where boat is locatedAt South Port Marine, 14 Ocean Street, South Portland, Maine 04106, USA (If you need additional information, call owner John Salo at 617-590-2244)

1973 Pearson 30Pearson

Madisonville, Louisiana

Model 30Pearson

Category Sloop Sailboats

1973 Pearson 30Pearson Very nice, Solid 30' Pearson sailboat with 3 cyld. Yanmar diesel. Sailed last Sunday. Just back in water Tuesday 3/21/17with new Bottom paint, all new thru hulls and valves, new super nice Awl-grip paint job on hull and new rubrail. Has Main sail, 3 jibs, all wenches work new tiller, updated upholstery inside. Sleeps 6,head with shower, stand up portable ac, mostly new LED lighting to much to mention. Open to offers, If interested text or call 504-931-2208

1977 Pearson P 30

Mooresville, North Carolina

1977 Pearson P 30 This 1977 Pearson has always been in fresh waters. Recently surveyed and found to be in excellent condition and the surveyed value is $20,000. Estimated replacement cost according to the surveyor is $107,000. This boat has hardly ever been used and is cared for by a professional U.S. Coast Guard captain. It is extremely clean inside and out. The estimated engine hours (Atomic 4 inboard) is less than 150 hours. List of equipment and extras:- Edson stainless steel steering wheel and pedestal- Emergency tiller setup- Transom railing has been modified for easy on and off easy access- Swim platform (converts in less than 5 seconds to a boarding platform)- Garmin GPS and VHF radio- Stereo speakers- Automatic battery charger- Dual batteries- Shore power- Cockpit table- Cockpit cushions - Interior upholstery in great condition- Bilge pump- Alcohol stove-top unit- Dual stainless steel sinks- Manual toilet (never used)- Sleeps 6 people in two cabins with a small bathroom in between- Sail inventory: Jib, mainsail, spinnaker- Two anchors with chain and rope- Six fenders - Plenty of docking linesNOTE: The boat is truly in excellent condition. The only thing it needs is polishing of the hull and bottom paint. It can be transported anywhere in the U.S. (cost of transport not included). Further reading:http://sailboatdata.com/viewrecord.asp?class_id=1276http://www.boatus.com/boatreviews/sail/Pearson30.asphttp://sailingmagazine.net/article-1250-pearson-30.html

1971 PEARSON P-30

New York, New York

YOU ARE BIDING ON A USED AS IS CONDITION 1971 PEARSON P-30 SLOOP. THIS VESSEL IS TILLER CONTROLLED. ALL NEW TOP LIFTING WITH NEW METAL SPREADERS. VHF MARINE RADIO. 1988 VOLVO PENAT 2002 IS IN RUNNING ORDER AND WELL MAINTAINED. CUSIONS INCLUDED FOR BOTH CABIN AND DECK AREAS. INTERIOR HAS BEEN UPDATED. HARKEN ROLLER FURLING UNIT FOR GENOA. MAIN SAIL IS MADE Z SAILS OF SANFORD, CONN. SAILS HAVE NO TEARS OR RIPS IN GOOD CONDITION (6 YRS). ALL LINES ANCHORS, FENDERS AND MANY EXTRAS INCLUDED.THIS VESSEL WAS NEVER IN ANY COLLISIONS. BOAT IS DRY DOCKED AT COLLEGE POINT YACHT CLUB. COLLEGE PT. NY. ORIGINAL SURVEY ON REQUEST. THIS VESSEL HAS ONLY HAD TWO (2) OWNERS. ALL SALES ARE FINAL. NO INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING. UNITED STATES ONLY STATES SIDE.

Sailboat 30 Feet Pearson Flyer Yanmar Diesel

Marblehead, Massachusetts

Model Flyer 30

Category Daysailer Sailboats

1986 Pearson Flyer 30 ft sailboat with Yanmar Auxiliary motor, folding propeller, roller furling jib.

1971 Pearson Pearson 35

Stuart, Florida

Model Pearson 35

1971 Pearson Pearson 35 Single 30 hp Universal diesel inboard engine is locked up due to a faulty exhaust manifold.  She's a very solid vessel that needs total repainting.  Her interior is in really nice shape for her age.  All sails appear to be in good condition and are stored away.  Keel is full with centerboard.

1976 Pearson 365

Fort Myers, Florida

1976 Pearson 365,length overall (LOA): 37make / manufacturer: Pearsonmodel name / number: 365 ketch. Hull#20propulsion type: sailyear manufactured: 1976condition: goodlength overall (LOA): 37make / manufacturer: Pearsonmodel name / number: 365 ketchpropulsion type: sailyear manufactured: 1976Specs. Builder Bill Shaw Loa 36ft 5 in. Lwl 30 ft. Draft 4ft 6in. Displacement 17700lbsBallast 7300lbs Bridge clearance 46ft. Year built. 1976Engine. Perkins 4-108 40 hp. V drive, trans and engine gone through and rebuilt or replaced 2009. Accommodations 6'4" headroom8 opening ports with screens. New Foundmetals 20092 dorade vents2 deck hatches. Lewmar Ocean 20095 cabin fans. head compartment with separate shower stall. Raritan Elegance toilet. Stainless sink and faucet all upgraded in 2013. GalleyForce 10 oven 3 burner stove. Lp gas. 2010 2 alum tanks. Hot water 6 gal. Rafitan with heat exchanger. 2009 Sea Frost refrigerator with digital control Lots of storage and counter space.Sails and rigging. Original main sail and mizzen sail150 Genoa reconditioned in 2015Profurl roller furler 2 number 44 lewmar winches 5 smaller lewmar.Mast pulled and rigging replaced, rewired, new main mast step and mizzen mast step repaired 2012Mechanical Equipment 20,000 btu air conditioner with heat new in 2016Easy access dual bilge pump assembly with alarmsNew waste tank, pump, hosesWheel steering ElectronicsGarmin 740 with hd radar. Autohelm 3000. Garmin 182. Gmi 10 wind and dept vhf icom 502, stereo, binnacle mounted compass, lighting suppressors. Electrical 110v Batt. Chargers. Custom dc breaker panelBlue sea batt. Switch panel with auto charge combined Blue sea Ac panels. Balmar 110 amp altinator with maxcharge regulator. AirX wind generator silent wind blades Solar panels with emarine/blue sky controller. Deck and hull 35 lbs delta plow 80 ft chain 200 rode44 lbs Bruce anchor 40ft chain 200 rodeS/L sea tiger windlassDouble lifelines with gates stainless bow and stern pulpits Removable swim ladder This vessel is ready to cruise. professional repairs and refit have her ready for any adventure. Even has a fresh bottom job. Comfortable cruiser suitable live aboard. $38000

1982 Pearson 323

1982 Pearson 323 A super cruiser with tons of room for a live a board! Same owner for 23 years! The sister ship was featured in Southwinds magazine. See the full review at (southwindsmagazine.com) 2011 review of Peasrson 323 featuring Ceilidh..........and projects section of Pearson 323 website by Cliff McKay.  This boat is turn key and ready to cruise! See the full specs for all the details! New 30 HP Yanmar Diesel in 2010! Garmin GPS Map, Horizon Speed and depth, Standard VHF radio, Navico WP4000 Auto pilot, CD player, Full galley with ice box, pump and pressure water, propane stove and oven, gas grill, CDI furling, working jib, 150 Genoa, 150 shoot, cradle stack, shore power with battery charger, hot water tank, Jabsco manual head, Plow and Fortress anchor, 2) 44 winches, Dodger with bimini, binnacle cover, 11' Caribe hard bottom tender with 2 HP Honda. Complete ship and maintenance log! Very clean and ready to move aboard!

1982 Pearson 37ft, Racer version

Severna Park, Maryland

Model 37ft, Racer Version

1982 Pearson 37ft, Racer version, 1982 Pearson 37ft, Racer version,Pearson 37, Racer/Cruiser, 1982, Hull #10, Bumble BeeDimensions:LOA: 36.92 ft, LWL: 30.08 ft, Beam: 11.83 ft, Displacement: 12524, Ballast: 5400 lbs.Tankage: Fuel: 35 gal, Water: 70 gal, Yanmar 3GM30 diesel (new in 2001), 27hp, 590 hrs.PerformanceRaced for many years on the Chesapeake Bay by current owners and has proved to be a top level racer (1st, 3rd, 4th and 6th out of 5 Governors Cup Chesapeake Bay Race, plus about 25 trophies in the past 12 years. Electronics:Garmin GPSMAP 192C, Garmin network with depth, speed, wind direction and two monitors in cockpit, SailComp 103C racing calculator, Raytheon ST4000 Autopilot, ICOM IC-M45 VHF,Horizon MST30 AM/FM Stereo with tape playerOverall Accommodations, Layout, EquipmentVery stylish low profile lines, nicely set up cruiser with shower, hot water plumbing (need hot water heater), Force 10 stove, sleeps 7, large selection of sails. The mast is the taller version, fin keel, hydraulic vang and backstay, responds very quickly and points excellently up wind. Spray dodger, connecting bimini with back shade (new 2013, used 4 times)Asking price is $39,750Call 410-647-2468, 410-562-3421 or [email protected] $39750, 4106472468

1972 Pearson 4

Gilford, New Hampshire

1972 Pearson 4 PRICE JUST REDUCED, THIS IS A LOT OF BOAT FOR THE PRICE This 1972 Pearson 30 has a 1989 Main Sail and a 1992 Genoe Sail both in very good condition, all the cushions have been newly covered, custom pull out bathroom sink, cedar closets, privatized doors in Vberth, and entire boat within has teak shelves and closets in Vberth.  Also equipped with a 1972 Atomic 4 30 hp engine, AM/FM stereo CD player with four speakers and external speaker for VHS.

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• Sailboat Guide

Pearson Coaster 30

Pearson Coaster 30 is a 29 ′ 11 ″ / 9.1 m monohull sailboat designed by William Shaw and built by Pearson Yachts between 1966 and 1970.

Rig and Sails

Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.

The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.

Classic hull speed formula:

Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL

Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL

Sail Area / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.

SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3

• SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
• D : Displacement in pounds.

Ballast / Displacement Ratio

A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.

Ballast / Displacement * 100

Displacement / Length Ratio

A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.

D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
• LWL: Waterline length in feet

Comfort Ratio

This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.

Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )

• D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
• LOA: Length overall in feet
• Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet

Capsize Screening Formula

This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.

CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)

Also available with a yawl rig. A daysailer version called the GYPSY 30 was advertised but it is unknown if any were actually built.

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• Sailboat Reviews

Used Sailboats from the 1970s: Practical Sailor Puts Plastic Classics Under the Microscope

Pearson 30, tartan 30, and catalina 30 stand out in colorful field of groovy fiberglass boats..

The fiberglass revolution in boats really hit its stride in the 1970s. Builders experimented, learned, and improved construction processes during the 1960s, so by the early 1970s, there were a lot of big- time builders pumping out a lot of good boats. In the East was Pearson Yachts; in the Midwest was Tartan Marine; in the South, Hunter Marine and Irwin; in Canada, C&C Yachts flourished; and out West were Jensen Marine (Cal), Ericson, and Columbia Yachts, to name just a few of them.

Narrowing The Field

In selecting a handful of 30-footers for review, we figured why review a boat no one can find? So we browsed online listings for plentiful boats. We also consulted our own files for old brochures, lines drawings, and owner comments, as well as past reviews of each model.

While there were at least several dozen 30-footers built in the U.S. during the hippy-dippy days of Woodstock, The Smothers Brothers, and Watergate, the most enduring are those built by the major builders—all-around family boats sometimes called racer/cruisers or cruiser/racers. Whatever you call them, they are fun to sail and have sufficient accommodations for a family to live aboard for a week’s vacation.

The facing table shows the nine models we settled on for preliminary discussion: Tartan 30, Pearson 30, Catalina 30, Hunter 30, Irwin Competition 30, Newport 30, Cal 2-30, O’Day 30, and C&C 30. For various reasons, a number of interesting 30-foot designs are omitted—the S2 (1977), Sabre 30 (1979), and Dufour Arpege (1968) come to mind—primarily because they are on the cusp of a different time period where they seem a better fit.

Before we move onto the chosen three, here are brief notes on six models dropped in the final cut.

More than 800 C&C 30s were built between 1973 and 1984, making it one of North America’s most successful 30-footers of all time. Though C&C was a pioneer in the use of balsa core in sandwich hull construction, the early C&C 30s have solid-glass hulls. Like other C&Cs of this period, the keel and rudder are swept aft.

C. William Lapworth was the designer for nearly all of Jensen Marine’s (Costa Mesa, Calif.) many models. The 2-30 was in production from 1967-1973, followed by the 3-30, which lasted until 1976. Cals have stout solid fiberglass hulls, but fairly plain interiors.

The Hunter 30 was an early model from Hunter Marine, a spin-off of the Luhrs’ family’s powerboat company, Silverton. The boat was in production from 1974-1983, with more than 1,000 built. It came with a deep keel or keel/centerboard. The rudder was skeg-hung. The designer was John Cherubini, who worked for Hunter at the time. Marketed for value, workmanship was below average.

Irwin Competition 30

Based in Florida, Irwin Yachts built three different 30-footers in the 1970s: the Competition 30 (1972), Citation 30 (1978), and the plain ol’ 30 (1975). All designed by Ted Irwin, one-time kingpin of southeastern sailboats who fell from grace with a thud. Shoddy workmanship resulted in lawsuits he couldn’t overcome. Many of his designs, however, were quite good. The Competition 30 was configured to rate as a 3/4-tonner under the International Offshore Rule (IOR).

Newport 30 (PHASE ii)

Capital Yachts (Harbor City, Calif.) introduced the Gary-Mull-designed Newport 30 PHII in 1971. Like Hunter and Irwin, Capital Yachts’ boats were built to a price. Like the Irwin Competition 30, the Newport was designed to compete as a 3/4-tonner under the IOR. It’s noticeably lighter than many of these boats, and has a shorter waterline.

O’Day 30

More than 350 O’Day 30s were built between 1977 and 1984. Designed by C. Raymond Hunt Associates and built by Bangor Punta Marine, the boat came with a full keel or keel/centerboard (3’6″-7’2″). In 1984, the stern was stretched to make the O’Day 31. By some reports, the Ranger 30 and O’Day 30 share the same hull. (Bangor Punta bought the Ranger and Cal lines from Jensen Marine.)

Bottom Line

At this age, maintenance history is key. Any upgraded and well-preserved specimen from the above group may serve well as a family coastal cruiser, but we’d focus on the three finalists on the following pages: the Pearson 30, the Tartan 30, and the Catalina 30. All are fin keel, masthead sloops, but each has unique features that sets it apart and will appeal to certain buyers.

The Pearson 30 is the smallest of the three, but a good sailing boat that still competes in club races. It’s the lowest priced of the three. If you’re counting dollars, grab the best one you can find at your price.

The Tartan 30 has a stronger following than the Pearson, partly because of its S&S pedigree. It, too, sails very well. Engine placement poses some complications, but you can get used to it.

The Catalina 30 is the logical choice for the family battlewagon. It’s heavier, roomier, newer … and more expensive. With a displacement/length ratio of 291 and a sail area/displacement ratio of 15.1, however, don’t expect performance matching the Tartan 30 and Pearson 30.

Budget-friendly Pearson 30 reflects Bill Shaw’s growing influence.

The Pearson 30 was introduced in late 1971, and when the last boat went out the door in 1980, 1,185 units had been built. Most were sold in the early and mid 1970s. All were built in Portsmouth, R.I. The P30 was succeeded by the Pearson 303.

Bill Shaw joined Pearson Yachts in 1965, after Grumman bought the company from Everett and Clint Pearson, and during the following few years, he began to exert his influence on the design of the yachts. Fin keels and spade rudders replaced full keels with attached rudders, underbodies became shallower, and displacement less. In short, Shaw modernized the Pearson fleet, and the Pearson 30 is a good example of contemporary design at that time, in particular the swept-back keel and scimitar-shaped rudder. George Cuthbertson was drawing similar appendages at C&C, noting that test-tank data indicated super speed, but on the water, they proved not as efficient upwind as vertical keels and rudders with higher aspect ratios. Extra care must be taken in blocking the boat if not in a cradle.

Our July 15, 1984 review of the Pearson 30 added these comments: “The boat’s underwater shape is somewhat unusual. The hull is basically dinghy-shaped. The sections aft of the keel are deeply veed, however, so that deadrise in the forward and after sections of the boat is similar. Coupled with a fairly narrow beam by today’s standards, this provides a hull form that is easily balanced when the boat is heeled—an important consideration in this relatively tender 30-footer.”

Construction

The hull is a solid laminate with alternating plies of 1½-ounce mat and 18-ounce woven roving. The skin coat under the gelcoat is two layers of mat to prevent the pattern of woven roving from showing (print-through). The external flange of the hull-deck joint is secured with self-tapping screws and then fiberglassed. The deck is balsa-cored for stiffness.

Interestingly, the Pearson 30’s lead ballast is encapsulated in the fiberglass keel molding, which means there are no keel bolts to worry about. This is somewhat unusual for a fin-keel boat.

About the only problem particular to this boat is the rudderstock. Early boats had aluminum rudderstocks, some of which broke, prompting the company to replace the approximately 200 others with stainless steel. Even the stainless steel stocks were not without problems, turning as they do in Delrin bushings, which wear and cause slop in the steering system. They are owner replaceable, however, by removing the tiller fitting and dropping the rudder.

Molded fiberglass floor pans and headliners are bonded to the hull and deck. Through-hull valves may be gate valves (like garden faucets) or positive action seacocks; chainplates are properly through-bolted to structural bulkheads.

Pearson Yachts’ construction methods were above average.

Performance

Though not designed specifically as a racer, the Pearson 30 enjoyed many successes in IOR and Midget Offshore Racing Club (MORC) classes. In fact, it won the ¾-Ton North American championship in 1972. And it was a very popular club racer. It balances well and is quick through tacks. On the downside, it is tender. Our 1980 reviewer wrote, “In 15 knots apparent wind, we find that the boat is almost overpowered with the full main and 150 percent genoa. Gusts of 12-14 knots bury the rail, slowing the boat. The P30 does not, however, carry any substantial weather helm even when overpowered. Any tendency to round up or spin out can usually be controlled by a strong hand on the tiller and easing the mainsail.”

For family daysailing and cruising, smaller headsails are recommended.

Still actively raced in local fleets, a typical the Pearson 30 has a PHRF number of 174 seconds per mile.

Accommodations

The interior layout of the Pearson 30 is straightforward, with a V-berth forward, small enclosed head, settees in the main cabin, a quarter berth aft to port, and a compact galley in the starboard quarter area. The port settee converts to a double berth, so the plan totals six berths, which are more people than you’d want to spend much time with on a 30-footer.

The four portlights in the head and forward cabin are opening, which combined with the forward hatch provide decent ventilation. Unfortunately, the forward hatch isn’t big enough for emergency exit. There is no anchor well in the foredeck, a feature that became more common later in the ’70s.

There’s adequate stowage under, behind, and above the settees. The 1984 reviewer wrote: “Although the lockers are sealed to the bilge at the bottom, owners report that, with their boat heeled, bilge water finds its way into the lockers by running up the inside of the hull behind locker partitions, then down into storage spaces. Most dinghy-hulled boats lack real bilge space or a sump, and as little as a gallon of water in a boat of this type can be annoying.”

Other shortcomings are limited engine access (though not any worse than most boats of this size), and a galley sink and spigot that partially block the companionway. On the upside, the interior is light and airy. Headroom is 5’ 11″ in the main cabin.

As with any boat of this age, one should ask the surveyor to look closely for delamination of the core and deck skins, separation of the hull-deck joint, water in the rudder, corroded electrical wiring, corroded through-hulls, and hoses that need replacement.

On early Pearsons the cockpit scuppers were connected to the bottom of the hull by fiberglass tubes, rather than hoses and seacocks/through-hulls. Though probably safe and secure, this drain system does not satisfy American Boat & Yacht Council standards.

As noted earlier, there are just a few areas in which the Pearson 30 falls short of quality building standards, principally the rudder stock design in which bushings wear faster than usual.

Pearson Yachts once ran one of the best customer service departments in the business; alas, it’s been out of business for more than 20 years, and several of the more helpful owner association web sites seem to have disappeared.

The Pearson 30 is a fun boat to sail—quick and responsive. It has the lowest displacement/length ratio (238) and highest sail area/displacement ratio (17.3) of the three. If you like performance, the fact that it’s a little tender shouldn’t bother you much. Reef or just enjoy the ride. It’s not a big 30-footer, but nicely proportioned and of better- than-average construction. There are quite a few on the used boat market in the low and mid-teens, enabling bargain hunters to get into a full-size boat for not much money. Asking prices we saw online, for all years, average around $14,000, with lows around $8,000 and highs around $25,000.

Tartan 30 brings fine S&S cachet within reach of ordinary Joes.

Built by Tartan Marine in Grand River, Ohio, and at a plant in Hamlet, N.C., between 1971 and 1980, the Tartan 30 was one of the first designs introduced by Charlie Britton after buying out partner Ray McLeod. The company could complete a boat in less than 4 days. It filled in the gap between the Tartan 27 and Tartan 34. Production totaled 630 units.

The Tartan 30 (like the 27 and 34) was designed by Sparkman & Stephens, probably the world’s most prestigious yacht design firm at that time. The lines are clean and crisp. Like the Pearson 30, its LOA is 29’11,” so it could qualify for competition under the MORC, a rating rule under which it proved quite successful. The bow is raked, and the reverse transom gave it a very modern look for the early 1970s. It has a fin keel and skeg-mounted rudder; a Competition model offered a taller mast (by 3 feet), deeper keel (5’6″ vs. 4’11″ for the standard model), and 500 pounds more ballast. It’s beamier than the Pearson 30, and of about the same displacement, but with a slightly shorter waterline. The rig is fairly high-aspect ratio with large headsails.

A highly unusual feature is the location of the Atomic 4 auxiliary amidships, under the dinette table. This places the considerable weight of an engine exactly where you want it most, near the center of gravity, to minimize hobbyhorsing, which slows a boat and is uncomfortable. Access is better than the usual location aft behind the companionway. And that space is opened up in the T30. The disadvantage is it takes up space in the saloon, particularly seatspace and legroom at the table.

The lamination schedule is typical of this period: hand-laid mat and woven roving. Liners make for an easy-to-clean interior, but make customizing difficult; they also tend to sweat more than wood interiors, and are noisier.

Ballast is external lead hung on 1-inch stainless steel keel bolts. The rudder is partially supported by a bronze shoe secured to the skeg.

Interior and exterior wood is teak. The sole is covered with cork, a quality home flooring material of the 1950s and ’60s.

Of the rig, our Jan. 15, 1987 review noted: “The rig, like most of those specified by Sparkman & Stephens, was designed to be practically indestructible. Given its inherent strength, look primarily for the effects of corrosion at the spreaders and the butt. Many 30s have been fitted with babystays in lieu of forward lower shrouds. For typical cruising we think the babystay is a pain and probably unnecessary, so we’d make it detachable.” Some owners added babystays as a cure for mast pumping. The standard rig has just single lower shrouds.

Early T30s had bronze pipe (no flanges) for through-hulls as well as gate valves instead of seacocks. Diligent owners will have replaced both by now, but it’s worth checking.

Blistering of all boats was not as common as later in the ’70s and into the ’80s, but there were isolated cases for which one should be on guard.

Tartan’s quality of construction, in the early ’70s, was at least as good as Pearson’s, in some respects better, in others not. It was certainly better built than the Catalina.

The Tartan 30 is a wholesome design with few bad habits. Our 1987 review said, “The Tartan 30 sails well. In a breeze to windward—perhaps the best test of any boat—she is at her best: comfortable, stable, reasonably handy, and modestly dry. Off the wind, she is more steerable than a host of successors with free-standing spade rudders and dagger-thin keels. Only on a broad reach with biggish following seas can her weather helm be tough to handle. Under such conditions, good sail control hardware—vang, traveler, reefing, adjustable backstay, etc.—is important.”

The skeg helps provide good directional stability or tracking, and the narrow sheeting angles (due to inboard genoa tracks) contribute to narrow tacking angles. The largest T30 PHRF fleet in the U.S., on Lake Erie (20 boats), races with a handicap of 168, though most of the other fleets, including the 18-boat fleet on the Chesapeake Bay, rate higher, around 177. So it and the Pearson 30 are very similar in boat speed, though the Pearson has the edge in light air, where the Tartan’s shorter waterline is a disadvantage.

Two interior plans were offered, one with an aft galley, the other with a midship galley, the latter with two quarterberths, the former with a single quarterberth to port and a settee amidships to starboard, where the galley is in the midship model. With either, there are simply too many berths. The aft galley seems preferable mainly because of the two opposing settees in the saloon.

One reason why five berths in a 30-footer is at least one too many is that berth length is diminished; this is particularly evident in the V-berth. Another reason is that quarterberths subtract from available stowage space; instead of stowing sails in cockpit seat lockers, on this boat they end up in a quarterberth.

The midship galley is, of course, more spacious than the aft galley, but neither has a stove/oven combo. Owners note that when the boat is heeled, the sink can fill and slosh water onto the sole.

The cockpit is of average size and would be more comfortable if the wood coamings weren’t so low.

Beyond the usual issues afflicting old boats, like bedding failing on deck hardware, the Tartan 30 has few peculiarities of construction. A number of owners have installed tie rods between the lower portion of the mast in the cabin, and the underside of the deck, to prevent deflection when the rig is heavily tensioned. Check tabbing of the main bulkhead. Also check the starboard chainplate and its attachment to the bulkhead, which reportedly isn’t as stiff as the port side bulkhead; water migration down a chainplate and into a wood bulkhead is a serious problem. Other issues noted online include inadequate insulation of the ice box, and an engine exhaust system prone to back-siphoning.

Tartans enjoy very active owners groups, especially in the Chesapeake Bay area. T30 owners’ websites have much useful information on troubleshooting and upgrading.

The Tartan 30 is probably the classiest boat of the three finalists. Part of the reason is that Sparkman & Stephens is one of the world’s great yacht design firms, and the work they did for Tartan was very good, with handsome, classic lines. And Tartan construction was above average. Online asking prices start at just under $10,000 and run up to around $23,000, with an average of about $17,000.

The family-friendly Catalina 30 comes with the largest fan club.

More than 6,500 Catalina 30s have been built since the boat was introduced in 1974, which must be some kind of record. Its design was continually upgraded over the years, but the first model, the Mark I, was in production through the same period as the Pearson 30 and Tartan 30. The Mark II came along in 1986. Owner Frank Butler has built more than 70,000 boats since he founded the company in 1970, so he must be doing something right. In 2001, the Catalina 30 was inducted into the American Sailboat Hall of Fame.

Butler drew most of the early designs himself, though he has no formal training in naval architecture or yacht design. He was a machinist by trade, and smart. His first design was the Coronado 25, which he’d asked Sparkman & Stephens to design, but they told him it would take two years and they’d first have to check his finances. So he designed the boat himself, with a fiberglass pan interior, which he believes was an industry first (Henri Amel was doing something similar in France.)

The Catalina is three years newer than the Pearson 30 and Tartan 30, and was not intended as a racer, which explains its wider beam and heavier displacement. Like most Catalinas, the 30 is a family boat, best suited to coastal cruising.

Here’s what we said about the design in our Nov. 15, 1980 review: “The boat has a swept-back, fairly high-aspect-ratio keel of the type made popular by IOR racing boats in the early 1970s. The high aspect ratio spade rudder is faired into the underbody with a small skeg. The boat is conventionally modern in appearance. She is moderately high-sided, with a fairly straight sheer and short ends. The cabin trunk tapers slightly in profile, and is slightly sheered to complement the sheer of the hull. When coupled with the tapered cabin windows—a Catalina trademark—this yields a reasonably attractive appearance compared to many modern boats.”

Of course, what was modern in 1980 and what is modern today are two different things. For one, waterline lengths have increased in relation to length overall, which means shorter overhangs, which means bows that are more plumb.

The hull of the Catalina 30 is solid fiberglass; there is no balsa, no foam, which makes for a heavier boat, but also one that isn’t susceptible to potential delamination. The hull-deck joint is a shoebox, in which the wider deck, with downward-facing flanges, fits over the hull. It is then bonded and fastened with self-tapping screws. A wood sheerstrake glassed to the hull adds strength. The joint is then covered with a vinyl rubrail secured in an aluminum extrusion.

Shoal and deep keels were offered, both external lead through-bolted to the hull.

The masthead rig has upper and double-lower shrouds and is deck- stepped. A wood compression post transfers rigging loads to the keel. A tall rig, for light-air regions, was an option. Check wood spreaders for rot. Early boats had fixed portlights, but these can be upgraded to opening.

Stanchions, double lifelines and double stern and bow pulpits were standard. Stanchions are though-bolted, but backed only by washers, not backing plates of fiberglass or aluminum, which do a better job of transferring loads and preventing cracking of the gelcoat, and possibly the deck laminate, in way of the stanchion bases.

Like Tartan, early models had through-hulls made up of bronze pipe. Gate valves were standard and must be replaced with bronze positive-action seacocks.

The Catalina 30’s generous beam (for its day anyway) gives it good initial or form stability. And coupled with a conservative sail plan, the boat is stiff, much more so than the Pearson 30. The downside of such beamy hull forms is the tendency to develop weather helm when heeled; so it, like many other modern boats, is best when sailed relatively level.

The smallish sailplan also means that performance in light air is not particularly sparkling. Our 1980 review said, “To get good performance in light air the boat will either have to be ordered with the taller rig, or very large headsails must be carried. If headsails larger than a 150% genoa are carried with the normal rig, turning blocks will have to be added aft in order to get a proper lead to the headsail sheet winches.”

The biggest Catalina 30 PHRF fleets, both in California, rate 180 and 192 respectively; the Pearson 30 is 174 and the Tartan 30 177.

A gasoline Atomic 4 engine was standard; a small, underpowered diesel was optional. Look for a boat that’s been repowered with a newer engine like the Yanmar 3GM30F.

Interior “furniture,” such as berths and galley, are formed by an interior fiberglass pan or module dropped into the hull prior to the deck going on. A fiberglass headliner covers the underside of the deck. These make for an easily cleaned interior, and one that looka nicely finished (albeit like a refrigerator). Such liners do, however, restrict access to parts of the hull and deck, make customizing difficult, and are not as good thermal and acoustic insulators as wood. The bulkheads are teak-faced plywood.

Again, owing to its beam, the Catalina 30’s interior is more spacious than the Tartan 30’s or Pearson 30’s. The V-berth is comfortable, followed aft by the head and hanging lockers; a shower was optional. The engine is located very near the center of the boat, under the short leg of the L-shaped portside settee. Access is very good. There’s a U-shaped galley with alcohol stove/oven to port, and a quarterberth and chart table to starboard. But if you thought the Tartan 30 has too many berths, check this: The Catalina 30 supposedly sleeps seven! Two in the V-berth, two in the convertible portside dinette, one on the starboard settee, and two squished into the “double” quarter-berth.

The interior is spacious and wellplanned, but finish quality is only average.

The Catalina 30 is a pretty straightforward boat in terms of both design and construction. No big surprises.

Several potential issues mentioned recently on owner forums: corroded wiring harness between engine and control panel, poor rudder design (corrected with new design in December 1978), wear of rudderstock tube, chainplate attachment to bulkheads, gate valves on pipe through-hulls, and hollows in the lead keel.

A positive with any Catalina is that the company is still in business and able to offer customer support.

Catalina Yachts has been one of the country’s most successful builders because it offers a lot of boat for the money. If construction quality is only average, one must ask, “Do I need more?” Generally, what’s lacking is not structural integrity, but details, like more drawers with dovetail joints and hardwood sides. There’s lots of room in the Catalina 30, and there are hundreds on the used boat market, so you can find a deal. Because the Catalina is a somewhat newer boat than the Pearson 30 and Tartan 30, its prices run higher. Though fixer-uppers can be found, most run between $16,000 and $29,000, with an average of about $22,000.

An examination of 30-footers from the 1970s seems like a good place to begin our comparison of used boats, and the reasons are several: First, though boats 30-plus years old admittedly are getting a little long in the tooth, many are still around, and those well kept may represent great buys on the used-boat market—between $10,000 and $20,000. Second, the 30-foot size is where full cruising accommodations begin, with stand-up headroom, enclosed head, berths for four or five, inboard auxiliary engine, and a decent galley with ice box, sink, and stove-oven possible. Sure, you can find these features in some 27- and 28-footers, but the squeeze is telling.

• 30-Footers From The 1970s
• Pearson Web Resources
• Tartan Web Resources
• Catalina 30
• Catalina Web Resources

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I am looking at a Cooper Seabird 37 mast head sloop, can you point me to any credable reviews on this particular vessel. Any help would be appreciated thank you.

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