Cal 3-30 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Cal 3-30 is rooted in Cal Boats' commitment to producing performance-oriented vessels. Following the success of earlier iterations, the Cal 30 and Cal 2-30, the 3-30 emerged in the early 1970s as an evolution, explicitly featuring a modern fin keel and spade rudder — design choices indicative of its racing aspirations under the IOR rule. During this period, Jensen Marine, the parent company of Cal Boats, was known for its robust and well-built fiberglass construction, a reputation that carried through to the Cal 3-30. Bill Lapworth's design philosophy emphasized yachts that were solid, tough, easy to sail, and comfortable, attributes that were well-integrated into this model. Although only 135 units were built during its two-year production run, the Cal 3-30 marked a significant step in the evolution of Cal's popular 30-foot line.

Sailing Performance and Handling

True to its IOR 3/4 ton racer designation, the Cal 3-30 was billed as a high-performance ocean racer. Its design, featuring a fin keel and spade rudder, contributes to its agility and responsiveness on the water. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.87, the Cal 3-30 demonstrates a moderate sail plan for its displacement, suggesting solid performance in a range of conditions, though perhaps not excelling in the lightest airs. Its ballast-to-displacement ratio, a robust 47.6%, indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and offering a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 257.69 places the Cal 3-30 in the moderate cruiser category, signifying a yacht that balances reasonable speed with a comfortable ride, rather than being an ultra-light racer or a heavy, traditional cruiser. Owners generally describe the Cal 3-30 as a well-behaved vessel with good balance, capable of solid performance under both sail and power.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing pedigree, the Cal 3-30 was designed with cruising comfort in mind, intending to accommodate a family of six comfortably. While specific interior details can vary between individual boats due to owner modifications and the boat's age, the general layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and a head. Reviewers have noted that the Cal 3-30 boasts one of the largest cockpits and a notably spacious V-berth, suggesting a focus on maximizing usable volume for its size. Interior finishes likely feature a combination of fiberglass liners and wood trim, characteristic of production boats from the early 1970s. Storage and ventilation would have been standard for a boat of this size and era, with an emphasis on functional spaces for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cal 3-30 often praise its solid construction and its capabilities for various sailing adventures, including offshore passages and island hopping. Many appreciate its spaciousness, particularly the cockpit and V-berth, which contribute to a comfortable living space for its length. The enduring popularity of these vessels is evident in active owner communities where discussions often revolve around maintenance, restoration, and upgrades. A commonly noted issue, as with many boats of its vintage, is the potential for deck delamination due to water intrusion, often around original deck fittings, which may require re-bedding. Despite these age-related considerations, the Cal 3-30 maintains a reputation as a capable and well-loved sailboat, with many still actively sailing today.