30 ft motor yacht

• AB Inflatables
• Limitless Seas

Hunt Yachts

• New Inventory
• Pre-owned Inventory
• Outboard Service & Repower
• Boat Storage
• Request a Quote
• Financing Application
• Meet the Team
• Yachting Insider
• RestoMod/Tuning
• Types of Yachts
• Outboard Service and Repower Center
• Volvo Penta
• Finance Application
• About Us / History
• YACHTING INSIDER
• Resto-mod Gallery
• 30 Ft Yachts
• Yachts by Length

Gran Turismo 32

Flyer 9 Spacedeck

Flyer 9 Sundeck

XO Defender 9

XO DSCVR 9 T Top

XO EXPLR 10 Sport

250-500 HP Outboard

XO EXPLR 10 Sport +

250-300 HP Outboard

XO EXPLR 10 Sport IB

XO EXPLR 10 Sport+ IB

250-350 HP Outboard

WEEKENDER 9

32 Center Console

Surfhunter 32

• Motor Yachts
• Owner Resources
• Find a Dealer

Back Cove 30 Gallery

The back cove 30: perfect for day boating or overnight cruising, the downeast boat is tightly associated with maine’s proud boat building history, and the back cove 30 is a grand example of everything that takes the style beyond a simple boat and makes it a work of art. built in maine, her design is reminiscent of the working boats of her heritage and contains many of the same practical and elegant details. she has comfortable side decks and convenient handholds for security and efficient movement, and her traditional spoon bow and gently sloped transom result in a style that will turn heads in any harbor. , the back cove 30 has a resin infused, deep-vee hull with propeller recess and standard trim tabs which result in a quiet and comfortable ride. with her standard 320 horsepower six-cylinder diesel, she will cruise at 20 knots and top out at 25. with the added power of the optional engine, she will cruise at 25 knots. precision maneuverability provided by a standard bow thruster provides confidence at the dock. below decks, her comfortable v-berth and head unit with pull-out shower faucet make overnighting on board a dream..

Open All Close All

Exterior Images

Interior Images

Virtual Tour

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Home Port Country/City/State
• Email This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Twitter Facebook linkedin Youtube Instagram

©2024 Back Cove Yachts 23 Merrill Drive - PO Box 548 - Rockland, ME - 04841 +1-207-594-8821 Contact Newsletter   Press   Careers

Practical Boat Owner

• Digital edition

Best 30 foot boats: Seaworthy British cruisers available for under £30k

• Peter Poland
• June 15, 2022

Peter Poland shares his expertise on British-built second-hand yachts costing less than £30,000, which are comfortable and seaworthy...

You might think £30,000 sounds like a lot of money for a ‘starter boat’. But tracking down a comfortable and seaworthy yacht that’s 30 foot long, less than around 40 years old and capable of taking a crew on coastal cruising trips costing less than £30,000 on the second-hand market can be a challenging project.

It’s stating the obvious, but sailors who are happy with smaller yachts have far more to choose from. In the days before the ‘smallest’ new starter boat became a costly 30-plus footer, many builders used to offer popular ranges stretching from 20ft to 32ft.

But if you are looking for the best 30 foot boats within a £30,000 budget, you will have to start delving into the realms of older yachts.

14 of the best 30 foot boats

The Westerly Centaur White Lady

Westerly Centaur

Those looking for smaller GRP starter boats – myself included – often settled on the ground-breaking 26ft Westerly Centaur. Between 1969 and the early 1980s, 2,444 were built; outselling any other British production cruiser.

To a large degree its success stemmed from the exceptional space, headroom and comfort that it offered in its day. Three layout options were available and – more by luck than judgement – I bought the most popular.

It had a twin berth forepeak, enclosed heads compartment, L-shaped saloon settee with drop-down table, linear galley to starboard and twin quarter berths aft. Thanks to designer Laurent Giles’s thorough tank testing, the Centaur’s twin keels also broke new ground.

The Westerly Centaur Viento Seco

These tests showed a substantial loss in efficiency when keels were aligned exactly fore and aft. So the LG team settled on splayed and identical (as opposed to asymmetric) keels with a 2° toe-in.

I bought my second-hand Centaur as a floating cottage from which to follow and photograph the successes of our Hunter Sonata and Impala 28 One Design classes in the late 1970s.

The Centaur did a great job. It sailed adequately, motored well and provided excellent overnight accommodation. And it still will today; especially if you find a tidy example with refurbished headlining panels and a recent engine.

A Nicholson 32 beating through the Sound of Mull, Inner Hebrides. Photo: Genevieve Leaper/Alamy

Nicholson 32

Going back to 1963, the evergreen Nicholson 32 is another candidate for a seaworthy and comfortable cruiser that just keeps going. Peter Nicholson sketched out his ideas for an all GRP Camper & Nicholsons fast cruiser that he hoped would become the new ‘people’s boat’.

He envisaged a quick and seaworthy hull, a distinctive two level coachroof (featuring a raised doghouse aft) and a spacious and nicely fitted out interior.

His father, CE Nicholson, drew the lines and Halmatic was signed up to mould the boat. Peter Nicholson planned the marketing and prepared the brochure: which was probably the first GRP yacht brochure produced in the UK. Jeremy Lines took on the day to day running of the project and the Nicholson 32 hit the sailing scene in 1963.

Success was instant. The Mark 1 version sold at £4,900. This may not sound much, but apply about 60 years worth of inflation and this comes to around £109,000 (+VAT) in today’s money. Which was a lot for a 32-footer.

Article continues below…

Coming of age: the 1970s yacht designs that have stood the test of time

Sailing in the 1970s was characterised by innovation, enthusiasm, mass participation and home boatbuilding. Rupert Holmes reports

Best cruising boats under 30 feet: Is this the ideal size for a yacht?

Cruising boats of around 30ft can often become a ‘boat for life’. Having graduated from dinghies to small cruisers, many…

But it’s as one would expect for a high quality yacht with a lead keel. Interestingly, the LWL had been fixed at 24ft – the holy grail for offshore racers – because this was the minimum permitted length for RORC events.

The first 32 produced, aptly named Forerunner, did well in Solent racing with Charles and Peter Nicholson on board. Then the young Claire Francis made the headlines by sailing her Nicholson 32 Gulliver single-handed across the Atlantic .

And the success story just ran and ran. Jeremy Lines continued to mastermind sales, control changes and liaise with Halmatic until the final couple of years, when Halmatic took over the whole project with the Mark X and Xl versions.

From 1963 to 1981, the 32 was in continuous production and including a few built under licence in Australia, around 400 were built. Peter Nicholson summed up the 32’s success by saying: “I think the most important thing about the 32 was that owners felt very safe in her in really bad weather.

“We had numerous letters and comments about this from people who had been caught out.”

Nicholson 32 Mark X and Mark XI

Over the years no fewer than eleven new ‘Marks’ of the 32 were introduced, incorporating numerous changes. Many of these related to small details but some were more significant, such as scrapping the pilot berth and pushing the saloon settees further out to make space for an occasional double berth.

The Mark X (introduced in 1972) and Mark Xl featured an all-new deck moulding and raised hull topsides, resulting in major changes and a completely new look. With extra headroom and space provided by the raised topsides, the ‘dog-house’ part of the coachroof became longer and lower.

At the same time the cockpit changed dramatically (it could now accommodate a wheel) and the companionway moved from its unusual but practical offset position to the centreline.

Down below, the galley and chart table changed sides, the chart table changed orientation, the saloon became more spacious and the amidships heads area got a bit bigger. While many liked the new Mark X look, others preferred the more traditional profile of earlier models. You pays your money (usually more for a Mark X or XI) and you takes your choice.

‘The evergreen Nicholson 32 is a seaworthy and comfortable cruiser that just keeps going’

From a personal perspective, I like the Raymond Wall designed deck and coachroof on the Mark X and Xl. But I’ve always admired Wall’s designs, especially such beauties as the Nicholson 35, 43 and 55. And after an enjoyable test aboard a 1969 Mark 8 version, I concluded that: “A ‘classic’ such as a Nicholson 32 will not suit everyone.

But if you want a boat with character, a boat that will look after you, a boat that just feels so good (whether sailing or relaxing down below) and a boat that will turn heads wherever she goes, then take a look. A Nicholson 32 is not just a boat; it is more a love affair and a way of life.”

To give an idea of prices today, I came across a couple of Mk 8 versions (1971 and 1972) asking £9,000 and £9,500 and two Mk Xs (1972 and 1974) asking £12,950 and £24,500.

Prices vary a lot depending on condition, spec and engine age etc, and a professional survey is advisable – as is the case when considering the purchase of any elderly boat. A visit to the Nicholson 32 website and becoming an associate member (£15) also gives access to a prodigious amount of information.

The restored Contessa 32 Bugler of Hor (PBO, December 2018)

Contessa 32

As the 1960s slid into the 70s, a new British-designed and built 32ft contender – the Contessa 32 – hit the market in 1972. And, like the Nicholson, it has become a popular classic.

However, having been launched eight years later, several new design features gave this 32-footer a very different look. The 1970s ushered in a new generation of yacht design.

The most obvious changes are beneath the waterline. Instead of a traditional long keel, the Contessa followed the new trend of fin keel (albeit a long one by modern standards) and separate skeg-hung rudder.

From a performance point of view, drag is reduced and manoeuvrability increases. But the Contessa’s vital statistics are surprisingly similar to the Nicholson’s, with the same LWL (that magical RORC minimum of 24ft again) and 5ft 6in draught. And her beam is only 3in more.

But when it comes to weight, there’s a substantial drop from the Nicholson’s hefty 6,198kg to 4,309kg. Yet the ballast ratio remains around 50%.

The Contessa’s finer ends and reduced underwater body explain the overall reduction in weight and mean that she is smaller down below – and quicker that the Nicholson. The 1972-designed Contessa 32 soon became a top seller with a reputation for seaworthiness, performance and classic good looks.

‘Synonymous with the word “safe”, many Contessa 32s have girdled the globe’

Around 700 Contessa 32s were built and she’s still in demand today. Photo: Carolyn Jenkins/Alamy

Around 700 were built and she’s still in demand today. Prices range from £14,000 (a 1972 example with original engine) to £27,000 (with newer engine) to £36,000 (a later example with newer engine) to ‘six figures’ for a recent boat. Jeremy Rogers Ltd still builds new 32s.

The word ‘safe’ has become synonymous with the Contessa 32. Many have girdled the globe. Others have raced across the Atlantic, a recent example being Amelie of Dart built by Jeremy Rogers’s new company.

Stephen Gratton entered her in the 2005 Amateur Single Handed Transatlantic race and raised over £50,000 for an MS charity. Jeremy Rogers told me: “He took 30 days to do the crossing, which was an extremely rough and testing one.”

But perhaps the most famous Contessa 32 is Willy Ker’s Assent . She shot to fame as the smallest yacht to complete the storm-tossed 1979 Fastnet Race , when many larger yachts had to retire.

Then Ker took to the ice and Assent completed successful cruises to the Arctic and Antarctic oceans. Contessa 32s, it seems, can take their crews anywhere.

The Contessa 32’s layout is similar to the earlier Nicholson 32 design, albeit slightly less voluminous. In the saloon, the main U-shaped settee converts into a double berth, thanks to a slide out panel.

The chart table is full sized and forward facing, with a secure quarter berth aft. The galley is a seagoing wrap-around U-shape that provides plenty of work-surface.

Contessa 32 Class racing during Cowes Week in the Solent, off the Isle of Wight. Photo: Peter Titmuss/Alamy

“Cooking and navigating at sea are safe and simple”, one owner told me; “You don’t get thrown around too much if it gets rough. She has a gentle motion at sea. She doesn’t bounce around and catch you off balance.”

Like the Nicholson 32 and other cruisers of this era, the Contessa’s heads compartment is amidships, between the saloon and the forepeak.

This isn’t as palatial as the aft heads compartments on beamy contemporary cruisers but when the heads are forward, valuable saloon space aft at the widest part of the yacht is not sacrificed.

Andrew Gardener’s Rival 32’s comfortable cockpit, wide side decks and moderate width bow and stern. Photo: Andrew Gardener

Rival 32 and Rival 34

At much the same time, the Rival 32 (1971: 200 built) and Rival 34 (1972: 174 built) hit the scene and also made their names as reliable and capable offshore cruisers. Designed By Peter Brett, the Rival 34 was an extended version of the already successful Rival 32, having a slightly deeper afterbody and longer overhangs to give steadiness in a seaway.

There were two basic hull versions, one with a deep keel at 5ft 10in and a shallow one with 4ft 8in draught. The Rival 34’s prowess in offshore sailing was soon put to the test. Four Rivals (a 31, two 32s and the first 34) entered the inaugural AZAB race (Azores and back – around 2,500 miles).

Then Brett lent his own deep keel Rival 34 Wild Rival to a young naval officer, Geoff Hales, to enter the 1976 OSTAR (Observer single-handed transatlantic race). Hales told me that it was one of the roughest OSTARs ever. “Out of 126 entries, only 76 finished. Wild Rival took it all in her stride and we finished 23rd… and we won overall on handicap.”

Rival 34 Wild Rival competing in a Round the Île de Bréhat Race in the Classic Channel Regatta. Photo: Peter Poland

Hales said that the 34 was so well balanced that she often sailed herself (with the Aries self-steering disconnected) and that the high bow proved its worth in the heavy head seas.

The only damage was a split mainsail, caused by a knock down when Wild Rival was hit by a rogue wave during a storm when winds touched 60 knots. “Needless to say,” Hales added, “ Wild Rival was straight back on her feet!” What’s more Wild Rival is still racing today and a regular competitor in The Classic Channel Regatta.

I’ve crewed on a Twister twice in this splendid event and admired Wild Rival racing round the Île de Bréhat … and she’s already entered for 2022. To get a professional opinion on how the Rival 34 has stood the test of time, I contacted Scottish yacht designer and surveyor Ian Nicolson.

When I heard he’d changed his championship winning Sigma 33 for a Rival 34, I was keen to hear his opinions on his latest and less sporty steed.

Ian said: “Restoration of my Rival 34 was a middle of the road job. I worked on her over three and a half winters and now she’s more comfortable, but these boats tend to be basically safe and not a lot was needed structurally. I’m pleased with the new book-case which has a traditional teak grating front!”

‘The most obvious changes of the 1970s’ new era of yacht design are beneath the waterline’

And what about her handling and performance? Ian added: “When I get our Rival into a tight marina berth with half a gale on the beam, I wish she had the short keel of the Sigma 3 for swift, tight turning.

“But when I am out alone and have not linked up the autohelm, the Rival’s steady plod in one predetermined direction is an asset. In squally conditions the Sigma needed firm handling and we won races by keeping the boat on its feet, while others were broaching.

“There is none of this problem with the Rival. If I had a choice for Scotland I would go for the deep draught version.”

Many other Rivals have gone on to cruise long distances. The design has a distinctive sheerline, and the interior, although smaller than some modern 34-footers, is particularly well fitted out for serious seagoing. On the second-hand market, I found 1978 and 1979 32s on offer at £16,000 and £17,500 (with a replacement Beta 25) and a 34 at £29,000.

The more modern Sadler profile is perhaps more functional than the Contessa’s classic look. But the Sadler 32 will be a dryer boat to sail as a result of this. Photo: Tim Woodcock/Alamy

The Sadler 32 is also worth considering. Designed by David Sadler, around 300 were built between 1979 and 1989. It’s interesting to compare dimensions with Sadler’s previous Contessa 32 design. At 31ft 6in overall the Sadler 32 is slightly shorter.

But her LWL is the same: namely the old RORC minimum 24ft for offshore races. Fin keel draught is also the same at 5ft 6in (shoal draught and twin keels were also offered), but beam is a foot broader at 10ft 6in.

Displacement is similar at 4,309kg but the ballast ratio is a slightly lower 44.2%. However the Sadler’s extra beam and form stability compensate for this. The Sadler’s masthead rig is also a similar size to the Contessa’s.

The Sadler 32 is a more spacious boat than the Contessa 32. Photo: Adrian Muttitt/Alamy

So what does this all add up to? Being a more modern design, the Sadler’s increased beam, higher freeboard, cambered side decks and straightened sheer definitely pay dividends down below.

The Sadler is a more spacious boat than the Contessa. Her fin keel is also a bit shorter, so there’s a small saving on wetted surface. This was borne out by early successes on the IOR racing scene.

I recall Cowes Week dices in our Impala 28 against the Sadler 32. We tended to edge ahead when off the wind (especially in a blow) but were hard pressed to hang on to the Sadler beating to windward in a stiff breeze.

Martin Sadler also sailed a 32 in the 1979 Fastnet and came through it with flying colours. Unlike the Contessa 32 Assent that completed the course, Martin decided to rest his crew and retire to Cork after surviving the ferocious front unscathed.

When it comes to looks, you enter the realms of personal taste. The more modern Sadler profile is perhaps marginally more functional than the Contessa’s sweeping and classic look.

But the Sadler 32 will be a dryer boat to sail as a result of this. Typical asking prices vary from £15,000 to £24,000 subject to boat and engine age.

Westerly Longbow and Westerly Renown

In 1972, Westerly asked Laurent Giles for a new 31-footer. And in its various guises, this makes a very popular first cruiser. It started life with a fin keel, as opposed to the ubiquitous and successful twin keels that had helped establish the Westerly brand.

The Westerly Longbow is a powerful performer, especially in a breeze. Photo: SailingScenes.com

So in 1972 the Westerly Longbow hit the scene, to be followed a year later by its ketch rigged centre cockpit sister, the Westerly Renown.

These two models have the Centaur’s signature knuckle in the bow and small ‘step’ in the roof line; but the extra five feet in length gives a generally sleeker appearance. They also took performance to a higher level.

The Longbow in particular is a powerful performer. She can surprise more modern cruisers in club handicap races – especially in a breeze – after which her crew can lie back and relax in traditional Westerly comfort.

The Longbow’s accommodation is spacious, featuring an L-shaped saloon settee arranged around a table to port. Two alternative galley positions were offered; one forward in the saloon and one aft. And a decent sized heads is amidships.

All in all, it’s an extremely practical and pleasing sea-going interior with plenty of wood to enhance the ambience. The centre cockpit, with wheel steering and optional ketch rig, Renown added a separate twin berth stern cabin to the equation.

Of course this is small compared to the palatial pads found in the wide sterns of many of today’s broad beam cruisers, but it is genuinely ‘separate’ and accessed via its own companionway at the back of the cockpit.

The Renown’s saloon is slightly shorter than in the aft cockpit Longbow, but remains a cosy and welcoming lair, with the galley aft to starboard and chart table to port.

Sales of these two fin keel cruisers level pegged, with the Longbow chalking up 265 compared to the Renown’s 273.

The centre-cockpit Westerly Pentland. Photo: SailingScenes.com

Westerly Berwick and Westerly Pentland

But customer demand for twin keels won out in the end, and a couple of years later Westerly launched the Berwick (aft cockpit) and the Pentland (centre cockpit) sisters.

Their efficient twin keels reduced the draught by around a foot – enabling upwardly mobile Centaur owners to retain their drying moorings and to continue creek crawling as they graduated from 26 to 31ft.

And, like their fin keel sisters, the Berwick and Pentland had sensible seagoing interiors. Sales between aft cockpit and central cockpit versions were also similar, with the aft cockpit Berwick winning at 309 to 241.

As sales continued to boom, the interior layouts of these successful 31-footers were occasionally tweaked. And towards the end of the run – as with other Westerly models nearing their sell by date – the fibreglass furniture mouldings gave way to an attractive (and more costly to build) all wood look.

Interestingly, the final total of these 31-footers built is evenly split between fin and twin keelers at around 540 of each. And that’s a lot of 31-footers. Today’s second-hand prices vary between around £10,000 to £18,000; depending on age and condition of boat and engine.

Excellent Westerly build quality as found in the 33ft Discus. Photo:

Westerly 33/Discus

One of the last classic Laurent Giles cruising yachts designed for the Westerly range was the Westerly 33/Discus, produced between 1977 and 1984.

Many regard this 33ft hull – with its well-proportioned keel (giving a 40% ballast ratio), generous displacement (6,848kg), and sensible beam (providing ample comfortable space below) – to be the best of the lot.

As usual, there are choices of keel (fin or twin), rig (sloop or ketch) and cockpit position (central or aft).

But it is the accumulated experience of thousands of Giles-designed Westerlys that makes these 33-footers a cut above the norm – with desirable small details such as backrests that move to become solid lee cloths for sleeping at sea.

Around 300 were built and asking prices vary from around £20,000 to £25,000.

Westerly Fulmar 32

In 1979, perhaps influenced by the success of racier cruisers imported from France, Westerly decided to step up a gear in the performance stakes and go for a new look and a new designer.

Out went Laurent Giles and in came the young Ed Dubois. It was a bold move, but Westerly pushed ahead in 1980 with a replacement for the popular 31ft Longbow family.

Excellent performance and handling qualities in both fin and twin keel formats from the Westerly Fulmar. Photo: SailingScenes.com

The result was one of Westerly’s most popular and enduring models; the Fulmar 32 (1979 to 1992: 437 built). Like her 26ft sister the Griffon Mk I and Mk ll (1979-1989, 329 built), Dubois’s Fulmar 32 enjoys excellent performance and handling qualities in both fin and twin keel formats.

And, being 6ft longer than the Griffon, she has classier and more elegant lines. Westerly gambled that extra performance would not deter its existing customer base, but rather boost existing brand loyalty while attracting new converts to the marque.

With fin or twin keels, the Fulmar took off. She also became a favourite with sailing schools requiring a spacious, seaworthy and stable floating classroom. The Fulmar’s seagoing interior layout, long cockpit and ability to take heavy weather in her stride make her the ideal workhorse.

With a sail area of around 560ft2, beam of 10ft 11in and ballast ratio of around 42% she offers a fine balance between cruising comfort and good performance.

Despite her long cockpit, the Fulmar’s interior volume is extensive. Her traditional layout – with twin berth forepeak, amidships heads, straight-sided saloon settees, big galley, sensible chart table and aft quarter berth – works well at sea.

It is not dissimilar to the Contessa 32’s accommodation, but more spacious. And many reckon that a well-sailed Fulmar will see off a Contessa 32 under sail in many conditions.

An impressive 437 were built and current prices vary between around £21,000 and £35,000 depending on age, condition and whether they have a replacement engine.

A Moody 27 in Plymouth Sound. Photo: Graham Snook/Yachting Monthly

Best 30 foot Moody boats

Many Moodys can also fit under the £30,000 ceiling, including earlier Primrose designs (Moody 33, 30, 36, 33S, 29, 333) and early Dixon designs (Moody 27, 31, 28). Most of these were offered with fin or twin keels.

There are far too many to go into detail here, but the excellent Moody Owners Association (moodyowners.org) contains information galore.

Best 30 foot boats: Yacht broker favourites

To get an experienced yacht broker’s view, I asked Andy Cunningham of Michael Schmidt and Partner (based at Hamble Point) for his favourite boats selling at under £30,000.

He listed the Westerly Konsort , Sadler 29 , Vancouver 27, as well as the Hunter Channel 27 and Ranger 245 twin-keelers.

He also mentioned the Victoria 30, Westerly Fulmar and Hunter Channel 32 twin-keeler – with the proviso that the last three can sell for more than £30,000 when in top condition.

Sharing Andy’s bias towards David Thomas twin keel designs, I would also mention the Hunter Horizon 232 twin-keeler as owned by 82-year-old Murdoch McGregor who won the British Yachting Awards 2021 Sailor of the Year accolade for his epic solo round Britain trip.

And its later, larger sister the Ranger 245 found almost unprecedented approval from the testers at PBO. David Harding wrote: ‘There was a lot to like about this spirited little ship back in 1996 when she had just been launched as the Ranger 245.’

Andrew Simpson, PBO’s associate editor at the time and not one to lavish praise on a boat unless it was well earned, concluded his test in 1997 with the words ‘a cracking little winner if ever I saw one’. The choice is far wider when looking for a small yacht priced under £30,000. So it’s impossible to list all the likely candidates.

Buying a 30 foot boat: Top tips

As a rule of thumb, it’s important to seek out a model with the backing of an active owners association. Rallies and social gatherings are fun and of course there’s extensive valuable information available.

A pre-purchase survey is also important; as are any recent invoices for major items such as engine and standing rigging replacement to show insurers.

Regarding standing rigging some insurers stipulate inspections on change of ownership, further inspections thereafter and rectification of faults found. So it’s sensible to check this with your insurer first.

Navigators & General, which has been insuring yachts since 1921, states on its website: ‘We will generally require surveys on boats greater than 23ft which are over 20 years in age. Once satisfactorily completed we will not ask for another for at least five years.’

Why not subscribe today?

This feature appeared in the July 2022 edition of Practical Boat Owner . For more articles like this, including DIY, money-saving advice, great boat projects, expert tips and ways to improve your boat’s performance, take out a magazine subscription to Britain’s best-selling boating magazine.

Subscribe, or make a gift for someone else, and you’ll always save at least 30% compared to newsstand prices.

See the latest PBO subscription deals on magazinesdirect.com

CENTURY 30-FOOT EXPRESS FISHING BOATS

When you’re looking for new adventures….

Explore the seas with performance and style. The Express Series by Century Boats is designed to deliver the comfort and features you demand for an extended trip offshore chasing the big ones… or cruising the river in stylish serenity. This goes above and beyond most boats for fishing and family, 30 Express delivers with the amenities and luxury you need for casual entertaining or action-packed overnight trips.

KEY FEATURES:

Equipped with a diesel generator for up to 24 hours of run-time while providing a safer (no gas fumes) environment for your family.

Seating and storage abound with wrap-around helm seating, massive floor storage, a tackle center and rear seating.

Designed for offshore fishing with pro-level amenities plus a fully appointed luxury cabin for overnight trips or casual entertaining.

*DOES NOT INCLUDE OPTIONS, DEALER PREP AND FREIGHT CHARGES. FEES FOR DEALER INSTALLATION OF OPTIONS, TAXES, TITLE, REGISTRATION, DOCUMENTATION AND LICENSING MAY VARY BY LOCATION AND ARE IN ADDITION TO PRICES SHOWN.

SPECIFICATIONS

Recommended yamaha power range.

• Air Conditioner 110V (heats and cools, 10,000 BTUs)
• Baitwell – Aerated with Power Stream® Venturi Aerator
• Bow Rail – Full
• Cabin – Interior Package
• Cleats – Pull Up
• Compass – Ritchie
• Electrical – Batteries (4), (3 Ea, Series 27 cranking, 1 Ea deep cycle)
• Electrical – Battery Charger 4 Bank with Inlet (twin engines)
• Electrical – Quad Battery Backup System
• Electrical – Shore Power
• Freshwater – Sink and Transom Shower
• Gauges – Yamaha Command Link Plus
• Generator – 4kw Panda Diesel
• Head – Electric, Macerator and Holding Tank
• Hinges – Friction Hinges
• Hull Color – White
• Powder Coat
• Refrigerator
• Rod Boxes/Storage
• Seating – Deluxe Captain’s Flip-up Bolster Chair
• Seating – Rear
• Shipping – Cover or Shrink Wrap
• Steering – Edson Wheel
• Steering – Optimus Electronic Steering
• Stereo – Fusion 650i with 4 Speakers
• Stereo – Fusion Wired Remote
• Top – Fiberglass Hard Top w/Spreader Lights and Rod Holders
• Trim Tabs with Lighted Indicator
• Upholstery Choices – Nantucket Sand and Sterling
• Wash Down (raw-water)
• Water Heater
• Windlass – SS Anchor, 285’ rope and 15’ chain (300’ total)

DOWNLOAD STANDARDS AND OPTIONS

• Canvas Enclosure – Hard Top (3 sides)
• Downrigger – Factory 12V, 30 Amp Accessory Panel
• Hull Colors – Side Stripe
• Hull Colors – Full Hull
• Lights – Underwater LED
• Light – Spot Light LED
• Mat – Anti-fatigue with Century Debossed Logo
• Radial Outriggers – Grand Slam 280
• Radial Outriggers – Grand Slam 380
• Raymarine Electronics – Factory Installed
• Snap-in Marine Mat – Cabin, Helm and Cockpit
• Steering – Auto Pilot
• Steering – Optimus Joystick
• Stereo – Deluxe with Fusion 750i subwoofer with amp, TV
• Stereo – Fusion Signature Series
• Tower with Dual Helm Station
• Upholstery – GT Upgrade Package
• Windshield Wipers – Port and Starboard

Century Boats Product Lineup

24 resorter.

3200 CENTER CONSOLE

2600 CENTER CONSOLE

2301 CENTER CONSOLE

2400 Center Console

4100 CENTER CONSOLE

5300 CENTER CONSOLE

Phone: 813-CENTURY (813-236-8879) [email protected]

Century Boats Corporate Offices P.O. Box 2859 Zephyrhills, FL 33539

Century North 40047 County Road 54 East Zephyrhills, FL 33540

Century South 12277 US-41 Palmetto, FL 34221

Join The Century Boats Community!

Stay in the know. Get the latest information on Century Boats including new models, events, rendezvous, and tournaments.

First Name *

Last Name *

Used Yachts for Sale Between 30' and 35'

Finding used yachts between 30 and 35 feet that fit your budget, your boating requirements, and are within a reasonable distance can be a daunting task with so many options on the market. The team at SI Yachts has been helping boaters find the perfect vessel since 1964 and keeping them on the water through our industry-leading service team. Call our main office today at 1-718-984-7676 and we'll connect you with the right sales professional for the type of boat, brand, or model you are searching to find.

SI Yachts is also the new boat dealer for Viking Yachts, Valhalla Boatworks, Princess Yachts, Prestige Yachts, Absolute Yachts, and HCB Yachts. We can also take your existing boat in on trade towards the purchase of a new boat. Our Diamond Listing Yacht Brokerage services include the most comprehensive marketing plan found anywhere in the industry. Let the team at SI Yachts help you into the right 30 to 35 foot boat or yacht of your dreams.

Staten Island Yacht Sales

• 60 Foot Yacht
• Viking Fishing Boat
• Absolute 64 Navetta
• Yachts For Sale Under $1.5 Million
• Boats For Sale Under 1000
• Absolute 47
• Absolute 56 Fly Price
• New Yachts For Sale
• 3 Million Dollar Boat
• Pershing Boats For Sale
• Staten Island Marina Rates
• Navetta 73 Price
• Best Yachts Under 1 Million

Luxury Yachts & Boats

• Pursuit For Sale
• Is Viking A Good Sportfish?
• Used Princess Yachts For Sale
• Riva Yacht For Sale
• Outer Reef Yachts For Sale
• Hatteras Yachts For Sale
• Silverton Yachts For Sale
• Ocean Alexander For Sale

Popular Models

• Cabo Boats For Sale
• Bayliss Boats For Sale
• Everglades Boats For Sale
• Tiara Yachts
• Chris Craft Boats For Sale
• Bertram Yachts For Sale
• Absolute Yachts
• F&S Boats For Sale
• Sunseeker Yachts
• Viking Princess Yacht
• Prestige Yachts
• Buddy Davis Boat
• Cruiser Yacht For Sale

Brands & Types

• 41 Valhalla For Sale
• Valhalla V37
• 52 Viking Express
• Contender 25T For Sale
• Pardo Endurance 60 Price
• Nor-Tech Boats
• Slx 400 For Sale
• 80 Ft Viking
• Pardo Boats For Sale
• Valhalla V55
• Valhalla 46 For Sale
• Princess V65 Price New

• Types of Sailboats
• Parts of a Sailboat
• Cruising Boats
• Small Sailboats
• Design Basics
• Sailboats under 30'
• Sailboats 30'-35
• Sailboats 35'-40'
• Sailboats 40'-45'
• Sailboats 45'-50'
• Sailboats 50'-55'
• Sailboats over 55'
• Masts & Spars
• Knots, Bends & Hitches
• The 12v Energy Equation
• Electronics & Instrumentation
• Build Your Own Boat
• Buying a Used Boat
• Choosing Accessories
• Living on a Boat
• Cruising Offshore
• Sailing in the Caribbean
• Anchoring Skills
• Sailing Authors & Their Writings
• Mary's Journal
• Nautical Terms
• Cruising Sailboats for Sale
• List your Boat for Sale Here!
• Used Sailing Equipment for Sale
• Sell Your Unwanted Gear
• Sailing eBooks: Download them here!
• Your Sailboats
• Your Sailing Stories
• Your Fishing Stories
• Advertising
• What's New?
• Chartering a Sailboat
• Cruiser Yachts under 30'

Popular Cruiser Yachts Under 30 Feet Long Overall Specs & Key Performance Indicators

Welcome to this ever-growing gallery of some of the most popular production cruiser yachts under 30 feet (9.1m) long overall - but as you'll see, it's more than just a gallery.

Small cruising boats like these are ideal for pottering along the coast but, properly equipped and in the right hands of course, are capable of impressive offshore passages. 

The vast majority of cruiser yachts in this size range are sloops but a few, such as the Shannon 28, the Victoria 26 and the Vancouver 27, are cutters.

Cruiser yachts under 30ft featured on this page...

Many of the cruiser yachts in this category would be ideal for the single-handed Jester Challenge  - in fact many have done just that, and those that have are marked with an asterisk * .

It's not at all surprising that almost all of the Jester Challenge cruiser yachts sport a windvane self-steering system...

Behind each of the images there's a lot more information, including:

• Dimensions & Specifications; 
• Design Ratios;
• A summary analysis of the boat's predicted sailing characteristics in terms of performance, stiffness, heaviness, comfort in a seaway and resistance to capsize.

To see it, just click on the image...

Westerly GK 29

Island Packet 29

Westerly Cirrus 22

Rossiter Pintail

Beneteau First 28

Hunter 28.5

Eventide 26

Bristol 29.9

Great Dane 28

Nordica 20*

Ericson 28.5

Macwester 27

Westerly Centaur

Albin Vega 27*

Cutlass 27*

Frances 26*

Victoria 26*

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 26*

Trapper 501*

Albin Ballad*

Jouet Regent 27*

Royal Cape One Design*

Westerly 22*

Columbia 29 Mk1

Contessa 28

Vancouver 27

Northern 29

Next: Cruiser yachts 30—35ft LOA >>>>

Recent Articles

'Natalya', a Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 54DS for Sale

Mar 17, 24 04:07 PM

'Wahoo', a Hunter Passage 42 for Sale

Mar 17, 24 08:13 AM

Used Sailing Equipment For Sale

Feb 28, 24 05:58 AM

Here's where to:

• Find  Used Sailboats for Sale...
• Find Used Sailing Gear for Sale...
• List your Sailboat for Sale...
• List your Used Sailing Gear...
• Sign-up for our newsletter, 'The Sailboat Cruiser' ...
• Identify this month's Mystery Boat...

Our eBooks...

A few of our Most Popular Pages...

Just a headsail and a mainsail - simple and efficient. 

Read more...

A smaller headsail and a staysail makes sail handling easier.

A second mast with a mizzen sail, for greater versatility.

Copyright © 2024  Dick McClary  Sailboat-Cruising.com

• New Sailboats
• Sailboats 21-30ft
• Sailboats 31-35ft
• Sailboats 36-40ft
• Sailboats Over 40ft
• Sailboats Under 21feet
• used_sailboats
• Apps and Computer Programs
• Communications
• Fishfinders
• Handheld Electronics
• Plotters MFDS Rradar
• Wind, Speed & Depth Instruments
• Anchoring Mooring
• Running Rigging
• Sails Canvas
• Standing Rigging
• Diesel Engines
• Off Grid Energy
• Cleaning Waxing
• DIY Projects
• Repair, Tools & Materials
• Spare Parts
• Tools & Gadgets
• Cabin Comfort
• Ventilation
• Footwear Apparel
• Foul Weather Gear
• Mailport & PS Advisor
• Inside Practical Sailor Blog
• Activate My Web Access
• Reset Password
• Pay My Bill
• Customer Service

• Free Newsletter
• Give a Gift

How to Sell Your Boat

Cal 2-46: A Venerable Lapworth Design Brought Up to Date

Rhumb Lines: Show Highlights from Annapolis

Open Transom Pros and Cons

Leaping Into Lithium

The Importance of Sea State in Weather Planning

Do-it-yourself Electrical System Survey and Inspection

Install a Standalone Sounder Without Drilling

When Should We Retire Dyneema Stays and Running Rigging?

Rethinking MOB Prevention

Top-notch Wind Indicators

The Everlasting Multihull Trampoline

How Dangerous is Your Shore Power?

DIY survey of boat solar and wind turbine systems

What’s Involved in Setting Up a Lithium Battery System?

The Scraper-only Approach to Bottom Paint Removal

Can You Recoat Dyneema?

Gonytia Hot Knife Proves its Mettle

Where Winches Dare to Go

The Day Sailor’s First-Aid Kit

Choosing and Securing Seat Cushions

Cockpit Drains on Race Boats

Rhumb Lines: Livin’ the Wharf Rat Life

Re-sealing the Seams on Waterproof Fabrics

Safer Sailing: Add Leg Loops to Your Harness

Waxing and Polishing Your Boat

Reducing Engine Room Noise

Tricks and Tips to Forming Do-it-yourself Rigging Terminals

Marine Toilet Maintenance Tips

Learning to Live with Plastic Boat Bits

• Sailboat Reviews

Hunter 30: Still the Affordable Fantasy

Production coastal cruiser offers a lot of boat for not a lot of bucks..

Hunter Marine began building auxiliary sailboats in 1974, largely as the result of the first oil embargo and the new energy consciousness that followed. Founded by Warren Luhrs, Hunter began as a division of the powerboat-maker Silverton Yachts, which was interested in expanding its offerings and taking advantage of the new interest in saving fuel.

The companys aim was high-volume production, keeping prices low by standardizing design, making as few tooling changes as possible, and offering its boats fully equipped-while other companies were selling things like bow pulpits and lifelines as options on a 30-foot boat. The original Hunter boats were marketed as the affordable fantasy and came with sails, dock lines, fenders, life jackets, and fire extinguishers, in what Hunter called the Cruise Pak of standard features. About the only option available on the early Hunters was a choice of shoal- or deep-draft keel.

Photo by CeCe Stoldt

In 2012, Hunter Marine was sold to David Marlow, the builder of Marlow Yachts. With this change of ownership came a change in corporate goals and product offerings. Hunter Marine began-like its chief competitor, Catalina Yachts-with a small group of standardized models. From 1974 through 1977, it offered only the Hunter 25, 27, and 30 models, and from 1977 through 1979, the builder added only the 33 and 37. Today, Hunter-Marlow makes nine production models ranging from trailerable daysailors (15 to 22 feet) to mid-size (27 to 37 feet) and large (40 to 50 feet) keelboats.

Also, Hunters high-volume-production business model has been replaced with the Marlow ethos, which is more focused on yacht-level quality than production volume. Marlow-Hunter produces about 100 boats each year, including trailerable and cruising sailboats, as well as Mainship powerboats, according to Greg Emerson, Marlow-Hunters director of sales.

The Hunter 30

Designed by John Cherubini and built from 1974 to 1983, the Hunter 30 is a coastal cruiser that was designed to offer a lot of boat for little money. With a focus on streamlining construction to boost production volume, Hunter aimed to offer an affordable coastal racer-cruiser. More than 1,000 Hunter 30s were built over the nine-year production run; however, a number of them were sold as Quest 30s, which was essentially a sail-away, bare-hull kit boat, and the purchaser completed the interior and the fitting out.

For this report, we checked out a 1980 Hunter 30 (hull #934) and a 1978 model (hull #568). In contrast to later Hunters, the early Cherubini-designed models were conservative and conventional in design. The longer sister models-the 33 and 37-were, in our opinion, good-looking boats, moderately styled, with an attractive bow line and sheer, and a pleasing coachroof. The smaller boats, the 25 and 27, instead traded in some styling characteristics in order to pack a lot of room into a short waterline, which left them with higher-sided with boxier cabinhouses.

The 30 lies somewhere in between-handsome from some angles but a bit too flat in the sheer and high in the cabintop to impress traditionalists. Still, most of those traditionalists would consider it a much more attractive boat than the modern Euro-styled Hunters.

The 30s hull is very full-to maximize interior space-but otherwise, its quite typical of the racer-cruisers of the 1970s. Overall, the boat is 29 feet, 11 inches long-the maximum allowable length under the then-popular Midget Ocean Racing Club (MORC) rule. The short overhangs result in a long waterline, fundamental for sailing speed. The beam, at just a hair over 10 feet, is moderate by 1970s standards, but narrow in comparison to the big 30-footers that have appeared since. The Catalina 30, for example, is nine inches wider, and many current boats carry a foot more beam (and carry it further aft) than the Hunter 30.

A conventional fin keel, drawing 5 feet, 3 inches, was standard, with a 4-foot shoal keel as an option. We test-sailed the deep-keel version, and suspect it is much to be preferred, unless you absolutely need the shallower draft. Company literature lists the displacement and ballast as identical on both models. That would make the shallow-keel version more tender, requiring crew to reef early as the wind pipes up.

The foredeck is on the smaller side for anchor work and sail handling because the cabinhouse extends quite far forward. The 1978 and later models have an anchor well built into the foredeck that is self-contained and large enough to hold over 400 feet of rode, or enough for two anchors. The test boat we sailed had a furling jib, a desirable option in view of the smallish foredeck.

A significant shortcoming of the boats design is the narrow sidedecks. The wide cabinhouse makes it clear that the designers top priority was interior room, with deck work being a distant consideration. Its near impossible to get past the chainplates, especially on the leeward side when under a press of canvas, without climbing atop the cabinhouse.

The boat has a good cockpit, a bit smaller than some other 30-footers (again, a result of maximizing cabin space). A wheel was standard on the boat; its small, which is good for moving around the cockpit, but less than ideal for helming, in our opinion

A T cockpit became standard following the 1980 models, and some people preferred that arrangement; however, you could lie down on the older bench seats, and you can’t with the T. The bench seats would benefit from some sort of drain arrangement since they trap water. A deep lazarette behind the cockpit offers additional on-deck storage.

A peculiarity of the decks on the early Hunters is that the nonskid pattern was not molded in as is customary on fiberglass decks. Instead, a nonskid aggregate was painted on. Given the age of the Hunter 30, the original aggregate is likely long gone, and owners have had to apply fresh nonskid paint or nonskid mat. Fortunately, such a repair is straightforward and an easy (although time-consuming), do-it-yourself project (see PS August 2008 and November 2013 online).

On the boats we examined, there was minimal sail-handling equipment on deck-one pair of jib-sheet winches, a small halyard winch for the jib, no winch for the main halyard, no Cunningham or vang, no control lines on the traveler, no flattening reef, a single jiffy reef block, two jib lead blocks out on the toerail, and no backstay adjuster. However, most H30 owners have added deck gear over the years, including a running backstay, so what youll find on Hunter 30s today will run the gamut. A large number of Hunter 30 owners who responded to our survey reported that their boat was rigged for singlehanding, making it easy to sail with a short- or single-handed crew.

The original Hunter 30 owners manual was a great example of a good, clear, simple manual. It has always amazed us how many other boat builders provide the buyer with little or no printed information. If you happen to own or buy a Hunter 30 (or pretty much any older Hunter model) thats missing its manual, simply download the PDF of the original from the Hunter-Marlow website.

courtesy of Kasi McCain

The 30s interior was a strong selling point for the Hunter 30. Almost every owner that responded to our survey commented on the size of the boats interior-often relative to low price-when talking about their reasons for buying the 30.

The interior is well laid out, but plain. Theres a lot here for the money, however. Some of the original details could use changing-the alcohol stove, lack of vents, and small water tank-and many owners have upgraded or modified these systems.

The Hunter 30s layout is conventional, with a good V-berth forward, then a head with small hanging locker opposite, settee berths on each side of the saloon with a double, a drop-leaf table in the middle, an L-shaped galley, with the sink underneath the companionway, and a quarter berth, with a small chart table at its head. The berths are of good size, and on some boats, the port settee can convert to a double berth.

The head area is roomy with enough space for comfortable showering and a door for privacy. The interior also offers lots of storage for a boat this size: The hanging locker can accommodate plenty of clothes and has an overhead shelf; and there are three large storage lockers in the V-berth, plus a host of drawers and under-seat storage in the saloon.

The icebox on the boat we looked at had minimal insulation and would benefit from several more inches all around. Many owners reported having upgraded with icebox conversion kits.

The deckhouse is high and wide, and this gives a look of spaciousness below. The white hull liner overhead helps offset the extensive teak veneer on the bulkheads, ceilings, sole, and furniture.

There are adequate ports and hatches to allow in enough light. The opening portlights-Hunter was one of the first production boats to offer numerous opening ports as standard-offer good ventilation. If youre considering buying a Hunter 30 that has not had any ventilation upgrades, you will probably want to add some Dorades or solar vents to keep the air moving when the ports and hatches must be closed.

The finish downbelow is typical of low-cost production boats, which depend on pre-fab components that can be rapidly installed in the hull. In our owner surveys, there were a great many complaints about the original joinerwork, door hinges, and hardware. The original cabin sole was made of teak veneer, so in instances of water damage, it often cannot be repaired but must be replaced.

For the first four years of the Hunter 30s production, a 12-horsepower Yanmar diesel was standard. After 1978, standard power was a 15-horsepower Yanmar, followed by an 18-horsepower Yanmar.

The 12 was a particularly noisy engine; the later models were less so. Most of the owners who completed our survey thought the engines were minimal for powering the boat, especially in any kind of head seas; however, by traditional standards, even the 12-horsepower model should be adequate for the weight and length of the boat. Although the 12 is highly praised for its reliability, many people will find the later Hunter 30s to be more desirable because of their larger, smoother-running engines.

Engine accessibility was criticized by almost all of the owners who completed our survey. Access is awful, said one. You must be a left-handed midget to work on this engine.

We thought accessibility was far from ideal, but not excessively bad for this size boat. With a big interior and a small cockpit, its hard to stuff an engine under the cockpit sole without cramping.

The Hunter 30 we sailed (with a Yanmar 12) was well behaved under power; it backed nicely, turned crisply, and drove through strong winds (in protected water) with no problem. Our impression was that the engines vibration and noise were more of a concern than its power. Anyone buying the boat with the Yanmar 12 will probably want to spend the time to get perfect alignment. Wed also look closely at the engine mounts and the shaft-strut mounting.

Some owners have re-powered their boats, usually opting for a Yanmar 2QM15 or Yanmar 2GM20F diesel with good results. A two-blade solid prop was standard, but a number of owners refitted the boat with a three-blade solid prop to improve powering. We doubt if the gain would offset the loss in sailing ability.

Theres a full skeg ahead of the rudder. If you have to remove the propeller shaft for some reason, youll have to remove the engine first, or tear the skeg off. On the shoal-draft version, the skeg also is something of a grounding vulnerability as the rudder is about as deep as the foot of the keel.

We were pleasantly surprised by the sailing performance of the Hunter 30. We sailed one in a long, triangular race-two triangles, then windward-leeward-windward legs-in heavy air, a little over 20 knots at the start.

Considering that the test boat had almost no sail controls and old sails, and that the underbody was rough and a bit weedy, the boat moved very well, going to weather respectably in a serious racing fleet, and reaching and running competitively.

The jib we used was the 130-percent genoa on roller furling, and this was about right for the boat in those conditions. When the wind faded near the end of race, the boat was clearly under-canvassed.

The boat is slightly under-rigged with its short mast. To sail well in light air, especially with the solid prop that most 30s have, a sizeable genoa is required. One Florida Panhandle-based owner reports that she sails with a 155 or 170 genoa, both of which are ideal in light winds and can be reefed with furling if the wind picks up. This boat sails nicely and does better in higher winds than light wind. …. It responds very quickly when tacking and can almost sail itself in steady winds, she explained.

We agree: The 30 is a good sailing boat, responsive and easy to steer. Its PHRF rating of 186 (New England fleet) would probably be very favorable. If the boat were rigged with a full complement of sail-handling gear and modern sails, it should be able to stay with other 30-footers of the same era, such as the Pearson 30, Catalina 30 (not the tall rig), and ODay 30. Since sailing is what sailing is all about, our opinion of the Hunter 30 was improved dramatically when we took a first in the races main-and-jib class.

Conclusions

The Hunter 30 was a boat built to a price point-to appeal to the sailor who wanted a lot of boat at an affordable price.

As long as a buyer understands that, not expecting custom quality at barnyard prices, the Hunter 30 can be a good value in a used boat. Many on the used market today have been repowered and had systems upgrades added like refrigeration. Be sure to look for delamination issues, check the nonskid, and examine the cabinhouse around the mast for sagging, as many of these Hunters have had compression post issues.

Its easy to pay too much for a used boat these days, but for a good-condition, roomy coastal cruiser that can make a good showing around the buoys, the Hunter 30 can be had at a decent price-a lot of cruisability for minimal investment. Youll find Hunter 30s on the used-boat market to be priced about the same as comparable boats (Catalina 30 and Pearson 30), with an average pricetag of about $13,500.

Pros -Many have been re-rigged for easy singlehanding from the cockpit -Roomy cockpit for a 30-footer -Minimal topside brightwork -Sizeable anchor well on deck -Many have been upgraded to furling headsails -Handholds run the full length of cabin

Cons -Limited foredeck space -Very narrow sidedecks -Standard, original ventilation was lacking, needs upgrades -Pre-1980 bench seats trap water, need drain added

Hunter Marine built the 30 with an aim to maximize interior space. 1. The galley came standard with an alcohol stove, a deep ice box, and a small sink; many owners have updated the cooktop and added some type of refrigeration. The sink is too small to effectively wash dishes. 2. The settees offer full-length berths. 3. The H30 fits a fair bit of interior storage in a small space, including drawers behind and under the settees. 4. The V-berth has additional storage under the bed, which is large enough to comfortably sleep two (friendly) adults. 5. A very small nav desk and a full-length quarter berth are situated to port of the companionway. Electronics can be mounted inside the companionway.

In construction, the Hunter 30 is very conventional—an economical, solid-glass layup in the hull and a balsa-cored deck with plywood for backing under cleats. A conventional flange, with a through-bolted aluminum toerail joins the hull and deck together. The basic construction is quite a contrast to that of present-day Hunters, which can generally be described as highly engineered and Euro-styled, at the opposite end of the spectrum from the early Hunters like the 30.

Testers’ opinion of the fiberglass work was that it was good but a little light—marginal for offshore sailing but strong enough for typical coastal cruising.

On one of the Hunter 30s we looked at, there was extensive delamination of the cockpit sole and the bench seats. There also were signs of sloppy glass work—ragged edges and un-resinated glass—in compartments and other out-of-sight places.

Quality-control problems also were cited by a surprisingly high number of the Hunter 30 owners we surveyed for this article. The problems often mentioned included improperly hooked-up fuel-return lines, chafed hoses, leaking ports, poorly fitted hatch boards and lazarette covers, improperly installed exhaust systems, and so on.

The Hunter 30 compares favorably, in price and performance, to other production boats in the same size range and of similar vintage.

• Marlow-Hunter
• Hunter Owners Group

RELATED ARTICLES MORE FROM AUTHOR

Great review and enlightening! Thanks for your knowledge!

Great coverage on the 30! I owned a Hunter 30 1994-2000. Live aboard at Harbor Island San Diego. Very nice experience. Yes, the Yanmar 15 was a bit noisy. I thought For a while there was mechanical issues but Found out it was it’s nature.

Good article. I bought a 1977 Hunter 30, and it does sail surprisingly well for a older production boat. The engine works okay but is a bit noisy. It will soon be for sail as my daughter is the sailor and moved overseas for college.

Almost 40 years in my 1978 27 ft. Your comments were all on the mark. The original 8 hp gave out after 30 years and repowered with the 15 hp and replace the packing stuffing box with seal. Replaced the ports in the head and vee. For the time available I had to sail it worked out well. Fifteen years on Great Lakes and 22 plus in FL.

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel reply

Log in to leave a comment

Latest Videos

Island Packet 370: What You Should Know | Boat Review

How To Make Starlink Better On Your Boat | Interview

Catalina 380: What You Should Know | Boat Review

• Privacy Policy
• Do Not Sell My Personal Information
• Online Account Activation
• Privacy Manager

• Sign In or Register
• Boats for Sale
• Research Boats
• Sell a Boat
• Search Alerts
• My Listings
• Account Settings
• Dealer Advertising

30 Ft Boats for sale

1-15 of 2,686

1984 Intrepid 30

Miami, Florida

Make Intrepid

Category Center Consoles

Posted 3 Weeks Ago

The Intrepid has been well maintained for her age. Overall, she is in good condition, with no visible flaws. The seller has performed all recommended maintenance. Everything on boat works. It comes with trailer. Stock #350777 This is a beautiful 1984 30ft cuddy intrepid. new tanks put in roughly 7 years ago, brand new 5.7 vortex long block Looking for a true offshore fishing machine? Look at this beautifully maintained beautiful 1984 Intrepid 30ft cuddy. The Intrepid is powered by brand new 5.7 vortex long block. Fully equipped with one Garmin GPS-fishfingers, live wells, rod lockers, and lots of storage. The boat is equipped with new tanks put in roughly 7 years ago, Dual axle trailer is 100% new with axles, bearings, wheels, tires, bearings, and bunks. Great for offshore fishing or just family fun! Call today to schedule a showing.

2005 Custom Built 71ft x 24ft x 6ft

Houma, Louisiana

Make Custom Built

Model 71ft X 24ft X 6ft

Category Houseboats

This vessel is in excellent condition. Per the seller, everything onboard is in working order. The seller maintains a logbook to document the dates that he has run/exercised all the various equipment on board. This includes the main engines, the two generators, the spuds, as well as all the various other equipment. Stock #244332 71ft x 24ft x 6ft Custom Built House boat powered by twin, 8V71 Detroit Diesel main engines! ********************** CERTIFIED SINGLE OWNER ********************** This 2005 Custom Built 71ft x 24ft x 6ft Houseboat is one of a kind. The seller custom-built it from the 1/4" steel hull to the beautiful interior finish work that features natural cypress. It is powered by two Detroit Diesel 8V71 engines, a 2:1 gear, driving 2" Stainless Steel shafts equipped with 30" 4-blade bronze props. The electric plant consists of a 20 KW Delco generator driven by a Detriot Diesel 8V71 engine, a 23 KW generator driven by an Isuzu 4LE1 engine, as well as shore power. It features three levels with spiral staircases to traverse the levels. The lower level includes 4 private berths, a full head with a shower, and a large galley and dining table. Move up the spiral staircase to the mid-level. It features three bunks, two large sofa's, and a TV with DRV. Go through the glass sliding doors to the utility room to access the full-size stackable washer & dryer, a 500 lb/day icemaker, and a full bathroom with a shower. Walk through the sliding glass door to the outside deck. Moving up the second spiral staircase brings you to the pilothouse. It features a bunk, two stainless steel chart tables, as well as all the navigation equipment to safely pilot the boat. Controls include a Kobelt Full Follow-up tiller, a Kobelt Electronic Throttle Control (with station select, Station Lock, Throttle Override, and Synchronizer). Gages for the Port and Starboard engines, switches, and spud controls are all mounted on stainless steel panels. This houseboat is wired and has light fixtures for both 120 VAC and 12 VDC. This houseboat has a USCG Certified Type II Marine Sanitation Device (sewerage treatment plant). It also has an Ademco Electronic Security System. Reason for selling is no longer using.

1973 Egg Harbor 30 Sport fisher

Edgartown, Massachusetts

Make Egg Harbor

Model 30 Sport Fisher

Category Sportfish/Convertibles

A local rep has not visited this listing. The limited information has been provided by the seller. The seller reports the vessel is in average condition and currently on the hard. Seller states several items have been recently completed Stock #208093 1973 Egg Harbor. All new electronics last year Garmin GPS Garmin radar ship to shore radio 3-D fish finder a lot of electrical work. 1983 Twin 360's. 1973 Egg Harbor 30 Ft Sport Fisher Seller reports new Garmin (radar/sonar/and fish-finder) electronics last season Seller has complete a few electrical upgrades Decking was replaced 3 seasons ago and new glass 4 seasons ago. The boat is reported to need some plumbing upgrades, but the seller has most of the items that any buyer will need to complete the project. Seller also has the new ceiling, just not installed at this time. The seller reports this vessel was used last season and can be put back into running condition Reason for selling is not going to use this upcoming season.

15ft Aluminum boat Grumman Johnson 30hp center console

Westwood, New Jersey

Make 15ft Aluminum Grumman Boat

Length 15.0

Posted Over 1 Month

Great boat starts and runs really well. Exceptionally well taken care of! Garage kept. I have the engine professionally serviced twice a year. Im selling because I need something bigger. If you want I can send you a video of the engine running. This boat was used lightly about once a week during the summer. It has a Semi-V hull. Ive had it for almost 4 years and have had no problems with it. When I got it I totally refurbished the interior. The floor is new the carpet is new the seats are new and the battery and water pump are new as well. Either paypal or cash upon pickup, either is fine. Call me or text me if you have any questions. Only call after 5pm. 201-739-4747 -Chris

30 FT CLASSIC MORGAN SLOOP

Salt Lake City, Utah

Make Morgan

Category Sloop Sailboats

Length 30.0

30 FT CLASSIC MORGAN SLOOP In great condition: Full GalleyLarge V-Berth Head (Toilet)2 Quarter Berths In-board Atomic -4 EngineElectronics/Radio/Stereo Roller Furling2 Anchors All Mahogany Wood, recently refinished.Location/Price: Marathon - $8,500

Sailboat Pearson 30 ft

South Portland, Maine

Make Pearson

Category Sailboats

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)

2011 30 ft Luhrs

St. Augustine, Florida

This is an Awesome Boat Priced to Sell, She is in Pristine ConditionThe Luhrs 30 Open Is very economical to operate, she burns 1 gallon per hour at 7 knots, can you imagine going fishing an burning only 10 gallons of fuel or $50 all day!She Has an Air Conditioned Cabin For the Wife and Kids To Get Out of the Heat or Weather As Well as a Large Head with Shower with Sleeping Space and If That Is Not Enough She Has a Galley With a Stovetop and Microwave and Sink She Gets Better Than A Mile Per Gallon at 22 knot Cruise with 300 Gallons She Has A 319 Mile Range and at Trolling Speed She Gets 7.6 Miles per Gallon and An Incredible Range Of 2052 Miles!She is 31' 10" Loa with 11'6" beamShe is Like New, Loaded With All The Extra's an Awesome Electronics Package with 110 Hours on Her Yanmars She Is Barely Broke In!Fresh Bottom Paint and New Zincs 9/14 Light Blue Hull, Twin Yanmar Diesels, Half tower, a 6 kW Kohler Generator, A/C, Automatic Trim Tabs, Epirb, USCG Safety Package, Microwave, Head, Shower, Enclosure, Sirius Sat Radio Raymarine E-120W GPS/ Chart Plotter/ Radar/ Sounder/Stealth Battery Charging System RayMarine ST70 Auto Pilot, Electric Windlass, Remote Spotlight, Autopilot Cell 561-405-5155 Email [email protected]

30 ft pontoon boat

Amherst, Ohio

30 ft pontoon boat very nice 150 mercury it has a bathroom and a kitchensink stove queen size bed a full size bed and a cal king size bed no holes in the seats coveing is about 4 years old motor is an 06 runs great the make is sun dancer party hut 30 and it comes with a trailer trailer tires are 4 years old the trailer is in great shape

30ft Aluminum Workboat Trawler

Nanaimo, British Columbia

Make McKay Cormack Ltd Victoria

Model Trawler

Category Trawler Boats

30ft Aluminum Trawler. Strong 4-53 GM diesel in very good condition. Dry exhaust. Heavy commercial construction. Equipped with VHF, searchlight, hyd steering, etc. New starter, batteries only 2 years old. Spartan workboat interior. No microwave, no fridge, no toilet, no shower, no autopilot, no current survey available, no hot little blonde suntanning on the foredeck. This is a proper small trawler style work boat that is simple and reliable, will go safely everywhere on the coast. Currently located in my back yard Yellow Point just south of Nanaimo. Estimated fuel consumption 2.4GPH at hull speed 7 knots. Builder McKay Cormack Ltd Victoria. Date unknown. No engine or service history available, hours unknown but your inspection will prove in very good condition. Very little smoke upon startup and then within a few seconds no smoke is clear. Your survey and mech insp welcomed. Serious inquires only. This is not a boat that would appeal to the yacht club types. Ready to go back into the water now with new zincs fitted, new cutlass bearing, new shaft packing, hull and prop cleaned, etc. Does need the top coating of antifouling immediately prior to launch. Will cost $300 for boat mover to put back into the water. This boat has outstanding seakeeping characteristics, a smooth graceful ride in rough weather with fantastic balance. Will deliver by licensed Master Mariner to your location under separate agreement. Would very much like to deliver from Canada to San Diego or Alaska for example. Canadian Registry Number C20246BC Look it up yourself for more info on this boat. http://wwwapps.tc.gc.ca/Saf-Sec-Sur/4/vrqs-srib/eng/vessel-registrations/details/C20246BC Sold strictly on "As is Where is" basis. No warranties, claims, guarantees of any kind.

morage anorcortus Wa. 30ft.

Snohomish, Washington

30 ft slip at Skyline Marinea Ancortus Wa.  For sale  $ 60,000 or lease $ 360.00 per month Call 425-334-5266 ask for Clark

CARVER 30FT - GREAT DEAL!

Wantagh, New York

Model CARVER

Category Aft Cabin

Length 30 FT

HUGE! SLEEPS 8+, BACK AFT CABIN HAS TWO BEDS WITH DRESSER AND MIRROR, CLOSET, MAIN AREA HAS A QUEEN SIZE SLEEPER SOFA, TV AND BAR COMPARTMENT KITCHEN HAS MINI FRIDGERATOR, MICROWAVE, DOUBLE SINK, ALCOHOL/ELECTRIC STOVE V-BIRTH HAS TRIANGE SHAPE BED / SLEEPS 2-3 , DRAWS AND CLOSET AND BELOW CABINETS FOR MORE STORAGE DUAL STEERING - OUTSIDE TOP / INSIDE GALLY WINDLESS ACHOR AM/FM RADIO, DEPTH FINDER AND GADGES TOP CANOPY COVER FULL BATHROOM WITH STAND UP SHOWER/ HOT WATER / TOILET AND SINK WITH VANITY FULL MIRROR SHE MIGHT BE OLD BUT ONLY HAS 800HRS/ ENGINES START RIGHT UP BUT HAVENT TAKEN HER OUT IN 2 YEARS, LOW PRICE SELL AS IS CLEAN AND WELL KEPT BUT SUGGEST NEW CARPETING AND NEEDS SOME TLC, GREAT WINTER PROJECT TO SPRUCE HER UP! Just don't have time to use it anymore, kids all grown up, owned it for about 12 years. Great boat, lots of room and even great to live on board like previous owner did. Looking for a local sale within NY area. Presently locked in Bellmore, NY

30 FT Jet Boat Project

Marco Island, Florida

Make Trojan Hull

Model Cabin Cruiser

Category Downeast Boats

Length 35.0

Built in 1998, twin diesel jet boat cabin cruiser. Everything operational, needs top coat paint job. Over $30k in spare parts for the engine and jets. - Twin commercial saber diesels, 212 HP Each with 500 hours. - Turbo-charged after-cooled. Stainless steel exhaust and headers. - Dowty Jets - Bow Thruster $15k takes it all Located in Marco Island, FL

72'Trogan Express 30ft

Lanoka Harbor, New Jersey

Make Trogan

Model Express

Category Express Cruiser Boats

I'll start by saying this is a good project Boat, both engines are in excellent condition,!!but thay have not ben ran last two seasons it will need some T.L.C for the fly Deck other thin that its a good boat its worth the money. all so if needed ill send more photo's ask and ill send more detail of it and the engines and hull. all so I accept cash in person boat is 30'feet long and 10'Beam feet

Tracker 30ft pontoon boat

Birchwood, Tennessee

tracker pontoon boat 120 hp mercury outboard, has cabin,15 passenger cap. custom built trailer,good clean freash water paint

2011 30Ft Luhrs Open

West Palm Beach, Florida

Length 32.0

This is an Awesome Boat Priced to SellGo To www.Palm-Beach-Yachts.com For More InfoThe Luhrs 30 Open Is very economical to operate, she burns 1 gallon per hour at 7 knots, can you imagine going fishing an burning only 10 gallons of fuel or $50 all day!She Has an Air Conditioned Cabin For the Wife and Kids To Get Out of the Heat or Weather As Well as a Large Head with Shower with Sleeping Space and If That Is Not Enough She Has a Galley With a Stovetop and Microwave and Sink She Gets Better Than A Mile Per Gallon at 22 knot Cruise with 300 Gallons She Has A 319 Mile Range and at Trolling Speed She Gets 7.6 Miles per Gallon and An Incredible Range Of 2052 Miles!She is 31' 10" Loa with 11'6" beamShe is Like New, Loaded With All The Extra's an Awesome Electronics Package with 175 Hours on Her Yanmars She Is Barely Broke In!Fresh Bottom Paint in 9/14 and New Zincs in 4/15 Light Blue Hull, Twin Yanmar Diesels, Half tower, a 6 kW Kohler Generator, A/C, Automatic Trim Tabs, Epirb, USCG Safety Package, Microwave, Head, Shower, Enclosure, Sirius Sat Radio Raymarine E-120W & E-90W GPS/Chart Plotters/ Radar/ Sounder/Stealth Battery Charging System RayMarine ST70 Auto Pilot, VHF's/Electric Windlass, Remote Spotlight, Autopilot Contact James VanderVliet at Palm Beach Yacht Sales for additional information or to schedule a viewing. Cell number is (201) 280-0029 or email is [email protected] . Boat is located on Singer Island.

Narrow Results

Current search reset all.

• Keyword: 30 ft
• Nitro (362)
• Sea Ray (56)
• Wellcraft (31)
• Bayliner (30)
• Chaparral (26)
• Hunter (23)
• Grady-White (18)
• Sun Tracker (17)
• Boston Whaler (16)
• Catalina (14)
• Premier (14)
• Bennington (12)
• Formula (12)
• Yamaha (11)
• Pursuit (10)
• Rinker (10)
• Allmand (9)
• Beneteau (9)
• Hydra-Sports (9)
• Pro-Line (9)
• Grady White (8)
• Silverton (8)
• Four Winns (7)
• Mastercraft (7)
• Monterey (7)
• Pearson (7)
• Sea Hunt (7)
• Bertram (6)
• Carver Boats (6)
• Chris Craft (6)
• Excel Boat Company (6)
• Glastron (6)
• Gulfstar (6)
• YAMAHA BOATS (6)
• Bass Tracker (5)
• Bossman (5)
• Contender (5)
• Island Packet (5)
• Regulator (5)
• Sea Doo (5)
• Sea-Doo (5)
• Shamrock (5)
• World Cat (5)
• Correct Craft (4)
• Cruisers Yachts (4)
• Fountain (4)
• Godfrey (4)
• Grand Island/Tahoe (4)
• Mainship (4)
• Sea Pro (4)
• Skeeter (4)
• Starcraft (4)
• Steiger Craft (4)
• Stingray (4)
• Sumerset (4)
• -Polaris (3)
• Albemarle (3)
• Baha Cruisers (3)
• CUSTOM WELD BOATS (3)
• Catalina Yachts (3)
• Century (3)
• Craig Cat (3)
• Crownline (3)
• Crowther (3)
• EVERGLADES BOATS (3)
• Everglades (3)
• Hatteras (3)
• Hurricane (3)
• Intrepid (3)
• Island Hopper (3)
• Nautic Star (3)
• Bass Boats (380)
• Cruiser Boats (89)
• Pontoon Boats (78)
• Center Consoles (76)
• Powerboats (76)
• Cruiser Motorcycles (59)
• Bowrider Boats (58)
• Sport Fishing Boats (48)
• Cuddy Cabin Boats (36)
• Fishing Boats (36)
• Ski And Wakeboard Boats (28)
• Saltwater Fishing Boats (27)
• Sailboats (25)
• Motor Yachts (21)
• Houseboats (20)
• Sloop Sailboats (20)
• Flybridge Boats (19)
• Jet Boats (17)
• Aft Cabin (16)
• Walkaround Boats (14)
• Center Console Boats (13)
• Deck Boats (13)
• High Performance Boats (13)
• Aluminum Fishing Boats (12)
• Racer Boats (10)
• Bay Boats (9)
• Express Cruiser Boats (9)
• Catamarans (8)
• Daysailer Sailboats (8)
• Rib Boats (8)
• Runabout Boats (7)
• Jon Boats (6)
• Pilothouse Boats (6)
• Convertible Boats (5)
• Flats Boats (5)
• Small Boats (5)
• Cabin Cruisers (4)
• Commercial Boats (4)
• Cruisers (4)
• Downeast Boats (4)
• Dual Console Boats (4)
• Inflatable Boats (4)
• Personal Water Craft (4)
• Pontoon (4)
• Skiff Boats (4)
• Trawler Boats (4)
• Convertible (2)
• Cruiser Sailboats (2)
• Power Catamarans (2)
• Utility Boats (2)
• Center Console (1)
• Dual Consoles (1)
• Engines (1)
• Motoryachts (1)
• Ski And Fish Boats (1)
• Sport Motorcycles (1)
• Sportfish (1)
• Tender Boats (1)
• Trimaran (1)
• Tritoon Boats (1)
• Walkarounds (1)
• Florida (667)
• California (165)
• Texas (162)
• Connecticut (138)
• New York (137)
• Michigan (84)
• New Jersey (84)
• Georgia (78)
• Tennessee (70)
• North Carolina (69)
• Virginia (66)
• Maryland (58)
• Pennsylvania (52)
• Alabama (51)
• Minnesota (51)
• Massachusetts (49)
• Washington (45)
• Illinois (42)
• Louisiana (41)
• South Carolina (39)
• Missouri (35)
• Wisconsin (34)
• Arizona (33)
• Kentucky (32)
• Indiana (30)
• Oklahoma (24)
• Rhode Island (22)
• Mississippi (21)
• Oregon (20)
• Arkansas (19)
• Colorado (18)
• New Hampshire (17)
• Nebraska (14)
• Nevada (14)
• Kansas (13)
• Delaware (9)
• West Virginia (9)
• North Dakota (8)
• South Dakota (7)
• New Mexico (6)
• Ontario (6)
• British Columbia (5)
• District Of Columbia (5)
• Montana (4)
• New Brunswick (2)
• Puerto Rico (2)
• Alberta (1)
• Manitoba (1)
• US Virgin Islands (1)
• Vermont (1)
• POP Yachts (13)
• KYA BROKERS (1)
• Search Title Only
• Has Picture
• Include Sold Listings

Showcase Ads

2017 Recon 985 SC

St Germain, WI

1999 VIP River boat

Coos Bay, OR

2011 Yamaha 242 Limited S

2015 Malibu Wakesetter 22 MXZ

2023 Cobia Boats 280cc

Coral Gables, FL

2008 Hydra-Sports 2200 CC

Sarasota, FL

1984 Formula 272 LS

Clifton Park Center, NY

Create Alert

Please, name this search

Select Interval

Alert Successfully Created

• Motorcycles
• Car of the Month
• Destinations
• Men’s Fashion
• Watch Collector
• Art & Collectibles
• Vacation Homes
• Celebrity Homes
• New Construction
• Home Design
• Electronics
• Fine Dining
• Baja Bay Club
• Costa Palmas
• Fairmont Doha
• Four Seasons Private Residences Dominican Republic at Tropicalia
• Reynolds Lake Oconee
• Scott Dunn Travel
• Wilson Audio
• 672 Wine Club
• Sports & Leisure
• Health & Wellness
• Best of the Best
• The Ultimate Gift Guide

The 10 Most-Exciting Yacht Debuts at the Palm Beach International Boat Show

Besides the debut of smaller vessels, more than 60 yachts over 100 feet will be at palm beach this week. it promises to be a banner event., howard walker, howard walker's most recent stories.

• This 1967 Shelby GT500 Has Been Reimagined to Perfection. Now It’s up for Grabs.
• One of Ferrari’s Earliest Formula 1 Cars Is Now Up for Grabs
• Aston Martin Unveils Its Fastest Vantage Road Car Ever. Here’s What We Know.
• Share This Article

For superyacht shoppers, the Palm Beach International Boat Show, kicking off its four-day run this week, is set to break records with more than 60 yachts over 100 feet long on display. Last year was also a banner year for superyachts at the show. 

Headliners will include the likes of the 295-foot Corsair Nero ,  the 278-foot Victorious by AKYacht, the 230-foot Turquoise-built Talisman C , and 213-foot Benetti Triumph among brokerage yachts, and in new yachts, the 113-foot Ocean Alexander Puro 35 is making its world debut.  

There are so many gleaming white vessels over 100 feet, in fact, that the fleet will be split between the Palm Harbor Marina at the main show site on the downtown West Palm Beach waterfront and the Safe Harbor Rybovich Marina two miles north. 

Now in its 42nd year, PBIBS will also showcase hundreds of models of dayboats, cruisers, and fishing boats, as well as marine accessories. Running from this Thursday through Sunday, the show coincides with the Palm Beach Modern + Contemporary art show, a fortuitous opportunity for yacht owners wanting to add new art to their collections.

Here are 10 must-see boats at this year’s show.

Corsair Yachts ‘Nero’

The undisputed star of this year’s Palm Beach show? That would be the 295-foot, classically styled superyacht Nero , built in 2007 and inspired by American financier J.P. Morgan’s legendary 1930s steamer Corsair IV . Nero ‘s attendance at PBIBS marks its return to the charter market after an extensive refit in 2021. Now better than new, the boat is being managed by Burgess. With weekly charter rates from $497,000, the vessel offers five-star accommodations for 12 guests in six cabins, with pampering from a crew of 20. Part of the refit included a full interior refresh by Italian interior designer Laura Pomponi, plus a major focus on wellness. That meant the construction of a new, state-of-the-art gym and spa, the assistance of a certified onboard trainer, a masseuse and beautician. After PBIBS, Nero will spend the winter in the Caribbean before returning to the Med for the summer season.

Ocean Alexander Puro 35P

Ocean Alexander is debuting the first of its new Puro superyacht series at PBIBS. The 113-foot Puro 35P comes from the drawing board of Italian designer Giorgio M. Cassetta and is a step back from the polarizing lines of OA’s recent Revolution and Explorer series with their bold, vertical bow designs. Aimed at long-distance cruising, the 35P can carry over 5,000 gallons of fuel and is powered by twin 2,000 hp MAN V12s for a 24-knot top speed. Twin 55kW Kohler generators can also keep the yacht powered at anchor for long periods. Other standout features include extensive glazing in the chiseled fiberglass hull, a forward deck plunge pool, and spacious accommodations for 10 guests. 

Think of it as the “starter” Sirena. Aimed at a younger demographic, the Turkish builder’s brand-new Sirena 48 is making its U.S. debut at PBIBS after a global reveal at last fall’s Cannes boat show. Such is its appeal that 27 hulls have already been sold, with 13 of the orders coming from North America. Looking like a scaled-down version of Sirena’s popular 58, its distinctive, trawler-style lines are from Argentinian designer Germán Frers. With more interior space than a typical 48-footer, the yacht offers three staterooms—plus a crew cabin—a spacious, light-filled salon, a large cockpit, an oversized flybridge, and a vast forward social area. Take your pick from twin 550 hp Cummins QSB, or 670 hp Volvo D11 turbo diesels. Or the builder is also offering hybrid power with twin 285 hp electric motors charged up by variable-speed generators that are good for a 30-mile battery-only range.

Feadship ‘Olympus’

Picture purchasing a classic 180-foot Feadship superyacht, and then getting a $10 million bill for a major refit. That was the case with Olympus , built by the Dutch masters at Feadship in 1996 to a design by Britain’s Andrew Winch and the celebrated naval architect Frits De Voogt. Sold in 2022, the new owner sent it to the Monaco Marine refit center in La Ciotat, France for a major makeover. It included overhauling the 2,600 hp Caterpillar engines and generators, repairs to the structure, substantial upgrades to the guest areas and crew quarters, and new paint throughout. With the work completed just last year, the vessel is said to be in mint condition. Offered jointly by brokers Fraser and Edmiston, Olympus has an asking price of $28.5 million. With accommodations for 16 guests in eight cabins, the boat’s highlights include two primary suites, tropical-spec air conditioning, and Palm Beach-chic decor.

Benetti ‘Triumph’

Italian yachting powerhouse Benetti is showing off its superyacht-building skills with the 213-foot Triumph . Delivered in 2021, this Giorgio M. Cassetta-designed steel-and-aluminum world girder features six decks, a 1,400-square-foot primary suite with outdoor terrace and adjoining lounge, a 750-square-foot beach club, and a touch-and-go helipad. What sets Triumph apart, however, is its lavish interior furnishings put together by the owner along with Benetti Interior Style and Monaco-based Green & Mingarelli Design. It includes pieces by French glassmaker Lalique, marble from Marfil, Statuario and Armani, furs, silk and wool carpets, plus a collection of cool black-and-white wildlife photographs by British fine art photographer David Yarrow. The pièce de résistance? That would be the owner’s Triumph Bonneville motorcycle displayed in the salon.

Fjord 39 XP/XL

Germany’s Fjord Yachts, part of the Hanse Group, has a new 39-foot day boat that it’s unveiling at the Palm Beach show. The 39 XP and XL keep all the bold design cues of the bigger Fjord 41 XP and XL, like a big, open cockpit, walkaround center console, vertical bow, mile-high windshield and stretched hardtop. As for the differences between the XP and XL, it’s all about power. The XL comes with a choice of twin 320hp Volvo D4 diesels, or bigger 440 hp D6 versions, both with Volvo stern drives. Likely more appealing to U.S. buyers will be the XP powered by twin 400 hp Mercury Verado V10 outboards giving a 50-knot top speed. Pricing starts at around $500,000.

Turquoise ‘Talisman C’

Chandeliers don’t come more dramatic than this. Cascading down the central spiral staircase of the Turkish-built, 231-foot superyacht Talisman C , this jaw-dropping piece of art comprises an array of multi-colored glass balls threaded on stainless-steel rods and illuminated by hanging fiber-optic strands. It’s the creation of Prague-based Crystal Caviar and is one of a number of glass installations on this sleek, low-profile superyacht. Built in 2011 by the Proteksan Turquoise shipyard, Talisman C was designed inside and out by London-based studio H2 Yacht Design, with naval architecture by Italy’s Hydro Tec. With cabins for 12 guests, one of its highlights is a huge primary suite, which boasts more crystal chandeliers and a private library. Twin 2,447 hp Caterpillar diesels give a top speed of 18 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles at 12 knots. It’s listed with Burgess for $59.9 million. 

Sanlorenzo 44 ‘Kamakasa’

Delivered in 2020 and sold to a new buyer just last August, the 146-foot Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy Kamakasa will be for sale at PBIBS. The asking price, through the Italian Yacht Group, is $23.75 million. Lack of use might also be the issue here; the yacht’s twin 2,600 hp MTU V16 diesels have a mere 289 hours on the clock. Built in aluminum to a design by Rome-based Zuccon International Project, Kamakasa was the second hull in the Sanlorenzo 44 Alloy series. One of the top features is a primary suite that spans three levels and almost 1,600 square feet; it also comes with a private Jacuzzi, separate bathrooms, a walk-in closet, and a private study. The yacht’s lightweight construction and MTU power combine to deliver an impressive 20-knot top speed.

Bahama 41 GT2

As ultimate, reel-’em-in, fishing center consoles go, the Bahama 41 from West Palm Beach-based Bahama Boat Works is as hard-core as they come. But when owners kept asking for a little more comfort for the family, the builder responded. The result is the brand-new flagship 41 GT debuting at PBIBS. While the proven, wave-slicing hull stays the same, the cockpit layout is new. In place of the single bench seat, there are now three-across bucket seats with a second row behind. The wider console now has space for a pair of 22-inch Garmin screens, while the new extended hardtop features sun shades and even a rain shower. Outboard choices stay the same with either twin Mercury V12 600s, or four 400 hp Mercury V10s, good for a 65-knot-plus top speed. Pricing is from around $920,000.

Heesen ‘Book Ends’

Launched in 2022, this 164-foot Heesen is part of the Book Ends collection, owned by an American couple who have had more than 18 yachts with the same name. The exterior design of this Heesen was by Omega Architects, while Dutch studio Van Oossanen did the naval architecture. The yacht is part of Heesen’s fast cruising series, which is more efficient than other vessels its size, and can reach 23 knots at full speed with its MTU 16V 4000 M65L engines. The yacht is listed through Ocean Independence for 42 million Euro, or about $45.7 million.

Read More On:

• Ocean Alexander

More Marine

This New 131-Foot Aluminum Catamaran Concept Can Take on a Transoceanic Expedition

This New 150-Foot Superyacht Can Cruise Through Shallow Waters in Florida and the Bahamas With Ease

Open Space, Eco-Friendly Tech: What a Rising Class of Millennial Superyacht Owners Is Looking For

‘People Don’t Want to Be Inside’: How the Outdoors Became Yachtmakers’ Most Coveted Design Element

Culinary Masters 2024

MAY 17 - 19 Join us for extraordinary meals from the nation’s brightest culinary minds.

Give the Gift of Luxury

Latest Galleries in Marine

Palm Beach Vitruvius in Photos

More from our brands, the luxury beauty brand that keeps runway models looking freshly rested during fashion week has great deals on amazon luxury stores today, fanatics executive fires back at draftkings in court battle, olivia rodrigo debuts ‘obsessed’ video, plus lovestruck new ‘so american’ track, as deluxe ‘guts’ reaches fans, australian museum faces lawsuit for artwork that men cannot enter, the best yoga blocks to support any practice, according to instructors.

trending now

Kanye West posts bizarre video of wife Bianca wearing head-to-toe...

Bianca Censori wears sheer tights as a top for another Cheesecake...

Kobe Bryant's father auctions off late athlete's first NBA...

Kanye West's wife Bianca Censori rocks completely see-through...

Josh Peck speaks out about 'Quiet on Set' documentary after being...

Kanye West pulls down wife Bianca Censori's low-slung neon...

Gavin Rossdale admits he doesn’t have ‘a connection’ with...

Bethenny Frankel threatens to 'f--k up' trolls criticizing the...

• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to copy URL

See Mark Zuckerberg’s glossy new $300M, 287-foot superyacht ‘Launchpad’

• View Author Archive
• Follow on Twitter
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

All aboard S.S. Facebook.

Mark Zuckerberg has reportedly gifted himself a $300 million megayacht, dubbed “Launchpad,” ahead of his 40th birthday.

The staggering 387-foot-long vessel was seen floating at Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., after arriving at its berth earlier this week, The Sun reported Thursday.

The multi-layered luxury ship’s sleek exterior was designed by Espen Øino International and boasts a steel hull and an aluminum superstructure, according to SuperYacht Times.

Reportedly ranking as the 45th largest yacht in the world, the interiors are just as aesthetically pleasing and reportedly executed by Zuretti Interior Design company, a France-based company specializing in unique and custom yacht design.

The breathtakingly beautiful floater stands out with a navy blue theme matching an American flag perched proudly on its wood-paneled stern.

There are several outdoor areas where the social media maven will be able to relax with his family and the indoor levels feature glass paneling allowing for tons of natural light.

For more Page Six you love…

• Listen to our weekly “We Hear” podcast
• Shop our exclusive merch

There also appears to be a helipad perfect for whenever the Facebook co-founder wants to travel to his vessel by air.

The Feadship-built yacht, built in 2022, can comfortably fit 24 guests aboard, requires a crew of 48, and is said to cost $30 million a year for upkeep and usage, according to Superyachtfan.com .

Want more celebrity and pop culture news?

Start your day with Page Six Daily.

Thanks for signing up!

Please provide a valid email address.

By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

Want celebrity news as it breaks? Hooked on Housewives?

Boatworld insiders have been buzzing with speculation that Zuckerberg is the owner of the newly minted mega-cruise ever since it made its main voyage from the Netherlands last week.

The tech titan was spotted touring the Russian-commissioned megayacht in early March, though the impressive boat didn’t arrive stateside until this week due to sanctions, according to The Sun.

The website reported that Zuckerberg purchased the pricey yacht – along with its own $30 million partner boat — most likely as an early 40th birthday present to himself.

The boat reportedly traveled to Florida after being granted special permission to be imported just weeks ahead of Zuckerberg’s birthday on May 14.

Zuckerberg’s yacht is just 30 feet shorter than the length of fellow billionaire Jeff Bezos’ 417-foot megayacht Koru, which the Amazon boss snagged for a whopping $500 million.

Zuckerberg’s rep did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.

Share this article:

Advertisement

• Weird But True
• Sex & Relationships
• Viral Trends
• Human Interest
• Fashion & Beauty
• Food & Drink

trending now in Lifestyle

I'm a divorce lawyer — these are the 5 jobs with the highest...

This is the strange fruit that can be your weight loss gamechanger

Woman stunned to learn $15 Goodwill dress has star-studded past

My partner thought his bad headaches were from stress — doctors...

Kids' phone-based existence is 'inhuman' — and 10 times worse...

'Holy Grail' shipwreck worth $17B could be recovered soon — but...

Do you really need to wash your face every night? Here's what a...

I'm an airline 'nepo baby' — here's what it's like to travel...

A look at the splashiest yachts at the palm beach international boat show.

• View Author Archive
• Get author RSS feed

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Spectacular multi-million dollar yachts — check! Balmy, waterfront location — check! Family-friendly exhibitions and fun — check!

Then it must be the 42nd annual Palm Beach International Boat Show, which cruised into West Palm Beach this week. The city’s waterfront Downtown was transformed into a yachters’ haven, filled with ultra-luxurious yachts and cruisers and a seemingly endless range of yachting-inspired activities.

This year some 800 boats and yachts participated in the show, which is expected to lure over 55,000 total visitors along with 600 brands. In total, the four-day show is anticipated to pump over $1 billion into the economy of the Palm Beach area, which has seen both its population and popularity surge since the pandemic.

“Beyond its economic significance and standing in the industry, the Palm Beach International Boat Show holds a special place in the hearts of local residents, revered as one of the region’s must-attend events,” said Alyssa Freeman, executive director of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County (MIAPBC).

The show supports a series of satellite events such as the Winward VIP Club, with an open bar, gourmet dining and special pop-up activations. The Super Yacht Show Palm Beach at Palm Harbor was where the show’s most glamorous — and truly gargantuan — superyachts are on display. At the AquaZone, which is presented by Nautical Ventures, guests can enjoy a “show within a show” via an interactive experience featuring a wide range of water sports and cutting-edge, marine-related products.

“The Palm Beach International Boat Show holds a special place in the hearts of local residents.”

As always, the Show delivers an exceptional array of culinary experiences, including world-class cocktails provided by sponsors such as Goslings Rum. The Show also includes a series of education seminars that appeal to visitors of all ages, including the Hook the Future’s Kids Fishing Clinics with Captain Don Dingman, who demonstrates various fishing techniques while showcasing a wide variety of fish species. Participants get a free Hook the Future x Carolina Skiff rod and reel combo.

But it’s really all about the boats. Here are five of the most unique, intriguing and eye-popping vessels on display.

The lucky charm

Few yachts at this year’s show are as jaw-dropping as Talisman C. Designed by London-based interiors aces H2 and manufactured by Turkish master yacht-builders Proteksan Turquoise, it’s currently listed for sale by British yachting firm Burgess for a cool $59.7 55 million. Spanning just over 231 feet long, it features six full-sized cabins that can sleep up to 14 guests, including a sprawling owner’s suite with its king-size bed and crystal chandelier, massive walk-in closet and grand library (which can easily be converted into an additional cabin).

Upstairs, the yacht’s sundeck features a large glass-encased Jacuzzi, sun beds and dining area under the sun or stars. A chic swim platform allows for easy access to the azure seas while the nearby aft deck area includes a fully equipped bar with club seating as well as a full-size dining area capped by a glass-threaded chandelier.

The vessel is powered by a pair of 2,447hp Caterpillar diesel engines, which provide a top speed of 18 knots, a cruising speed of 15 knots and a transatlantic range of 7,000 nautical miles.

The emperor

Reaching just under 300 feet in length, the Nero is, without doubt, one of the most eye-catching vessels at the entire Palm Beach show. Although completely contemporarily designed and manufactured, the Nero embodies the look and aesthetic of classic boats from yachting’s golden age during the 1930s. Fully overhauled in 2021, the Nero — which is currently on the market for just under $500,000 per week via Burgess — was designed in the spirit of Corsair, a yacht launched in the 1930s that belonged to legendary Wall Street financier J.P. Morgan.

Inside, it could not be more luxurious. On the top deck is a world-class gym fitted out with equipment by Technogym, while a few steps beyond is a beauty salon, which comes with an in-house beautician and masseuse.

There are six cabins with room for 12 guests — along with an on-board Jacuzzi, pool and waterslide. Throughout, veteran yacht designer Laura Pomponi has updated and upgraded the Nero’s look, introducing a range of new handmade carpets, along with hardwood floors, new sofas and elegant art-works. Pomponi has also lent her hand to Nero’s distinctive 30-foot Corsair custom-built tender that has been refitted so guests can arrive in impeccable style.

The secret agent

As its name suggests, the 236-foot Casino Royale brings a large dose of Bond-like elegance and intrigue to West Palm Beach. Constructed by Italian master shipbuilder Tankoa in 2018 and given a top-to-bottom retrofit in 2022, Casino Royale includes six cabins for 12 passengers and has been awarded a slew of industry accolades for its innovative and forward-thinking technology and aesthetic. Nearly two dozen crewmembers tend to those lucky voyagers, which luxuriate in an on-board circular swimming pool and access the ship via a helicopter port.

The yacht’s primary suite is nothing if not grand, featuring 180-degree views from its king-size bed along with its own study and al fresco terrace with private sunbed and Jacuzzi. There are five additional guest suites — all with their own private baths. Just beyond is an open-air living layout complete with a range of bespoke contemporary furnishings across the boat’s nearly half-dozen passenger decks.

Outside the amenities are just as abundant and include an onboard beach club with a lounge, bar, sauna, terrace and hammam/shower. All are ideal locations to rest and recharge after a workout in the yacht’s wellness center. On the main deck, there’s a nearly 20-foot-long infinity pool, while that helipad can easily convert into a dance floor.

The love boat

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Edmiston & Company (@edmistonyachts)

Completely futuristic and totally cool, the 180-foot-long Come Together is the ultimate example of stealth wealth on the high seas. Completed just two years ago by the Dutch firm Amels and currently on the market for a cool $65 million, Come Together features an unmistakable architecturally styled exterior reminiscent of a city-center skyscraper.

The boat can house up to 14 guests and 13 crew members within its unmissable steel hull and an aluminum-clad super structure — all cruising at a top speed of 15.5 knots.

The boat’s expansive master suite is set within its main deck and features sprawling storage space, a dressing room as well as his and hers bathrooms. There are an additional VIP cabin, two double cabins and two further cabins that can operate as twins or doubles. Up top, there’s a fully equipped gym and Jacuzzi — while a set of Jet Skis, water skis and hover-like Seabob watercraft keep the fun going just off deck. Come Together’s unique underwater lighting system also delivers a strong dose of excitement come nighttime and is the perfect way to enjoy an after-hours swim.

Want more? Then don’t forget about the on-board wakeboards, paddleboards and snorkeling equipment. And, when the moment strikes to head from the boat to land, travel could not be easier thanks to an easy-access 30-foot Limo Tender.

The cordial cruiser

The aptly named Hospitality ticks off the right boxes when it comes to superyacht bells and whistles. This twin-engine beauty can house up to 16 passengers along with 11 crew at a maximum cruising speed of 24 knots. Built back in 2011 by Westport Yachts here in the US, Hospitality — which is currently on the market for just under $30 million — underwent a comprehensive retrofit in 2021.

Along with all of the requisite yachting toys — Jet Skis, Seabobs and paddleboards — Hospitality includes a grand private owner’s suite with its own private relaxation balcony, seven cabins along with a relaxation room that can be used as a gym or spa and meticulously designed public spaces across is handful of decks. There’s also a handy tender for quick — or, not so quick — jaunts to the shore for dining and shopping.

Hospitality mostly cruises the Caribbean to New England, making the most of Northern Hemisphere winters.

Share this article:

Advertisement