Ranger 30 Information, Review, Specs

The Ranger 30's inception in 1977 marked a continuation of Jensen Marine's legacy, under Bangor Punta's ownership, to deliver competitive and well-designed racing and cruising yachts. C. Raymond Hunt Associates, the acclaimed design firm behind the Ranger 30, created a vessel that aimed to balance speed and offshore capability with practical living spaces. While specific design philosophies for this model are not extensively documented, the era of its production saw Bangor Punta leveraging its resources to expand the reach of popular sailboat lines, focusing on fiberglass construction for a broader recreational market. The Ranger 30 is noted for being similar to the O'Day 30, a sister company's model also under Bangor Punta, but with a taller rig and deeper keel, suggesting a design intent for enhanced upwind performance and stiffness notes]. There are no widely documented significant variations (like MkI/MkII) during its production run, implying a consistent design throughout its build.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 30 exhibits characteristics of a capable performer for its size. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.36, she is indicative of a well-balanced design that performs adequately in a range of wind conditions, rather than being a dedicated light-air specialist. This ratio suggests she will appreciate a moderate breeze to truly stretch her legs. Her Ballast to Displacement ratio, standing at around 0.4095, is notably high, indicating a stiff and stable boat. This substantial ballast ratio contributes significantly to her ability to stand up to a press of sail, providing a secure and comfortable motion even in choppier conditions. The Displacement to Length ratio, calculated at approximately 285.9, places the Ranger 30 in the category of a medium-displacement cruiser. This suggests a design that offers a good blend of speed and seakindliness, making her suitable for both coastal cruising and more ambitious passages. Anecdotal evidence from owners confirms its reputation as a "racer/cruiser," with reports of the boat performing well in races and even completing offshore voyages, such as a trip to Bermuda. Owners often praise its overall balance and responsiveness under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance-oriented design, the Ranger 30 offers a surprisingly spacious and practical interior for a vessel of its length. The layout is typically arranged to provide sleeping accommodations for up to five individuals, commonly featuring a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette or settee in the main saloon, and a quarter berth aft. While the specific maximum headroom is not provided in core specifications, the interior is often described as well-appointed and comfortable for extended cruising. Reviewers and owners frequently highlight the effective use of space, which typically includes a functional galley area, a dedicated head compartment, and adequate storage for provisions and personal gear. The general finish quality, often featuring wood trim balanced with fiberglass, contributes to a warm and traditional marine ambiance. Ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights, ensuring comfortable living aboard in various climates.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ranger 30 generally express high satisfaction with the boat's solid construction and its ability to deliver both comfortable cruising and respectable performance. Many appreciate its versatility, finding it suitable for both short weekend trips and longer sailing vacations. While specific recurring "common problems" are not widely highlighted in general owner forums, the enduring popularity and active community surrounding these boats suggest a robust and maintainable design. The "classic racer/cruiser" moniker often used to describe the Ranger 30 by its owners underlines its dual appeal and the lasting quality attributed to its design and build.