Blue Chip 30 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Blue Chip 30 spanned over two decades, from 1961 to 1985. This period marked a significant era for Cape Cod Shipbuilding, which had pioneered the transition to fiberglass construction in 1947. The company's manufacturing ethos, deeply rooted in traditional craftsmanship, ensured that even their early fiberglass boats like the Blue Chip 30 were built to last, often exceeding the durability of many mass-produced vessels. A. Sidney DeWolf Herreshoff, the designer, is noted for crafting a cruiser that offered both seaworthiness and reasonable sailing characteristics. While specific details on the designer's philosophy for this particular model are not extensively documented, Cape Cod Shipbuilding's general approach involved combining traditional aesthetics with modern building techniques to create semi-custom sailboats known for their strength and longevity. During its production run, the boat was also known interchangeably as the Cape Cod 30, indicating a consistent design without significant documented variations like MkI or MkII iterations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Blue Chip 30 is characterized by its long keel hull type and masthead sloop rigging, indicating a design focused on stability and a comfortable motion in a seaway rather than outright racing performance. Its calculated sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) is approximately 19.06. This figure suggests a boat with adequate sail power for light to moderate winds, providing a satisfying sailing experience without being overly powerful or twitchy in stronger conditions.

With a ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of 0.464, the Blue Chip 30 demonstrates a high degree of stiffness and stability. This substantial ballast percentage means the boat is well-equipped to stand up to wind, resisting heeling and contributing to a secure feel offshore. The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 251.9 places the Blue Chip 30 firmly in the moderate displacement cruiser category. This suggests a vessel that offers a comfortable ride, capable of carrying stores for extended trips, without being excessively heavy or sluggish. Owners have generally described the Blue Chip 30 as a solid coastal cruiser, with characteristics that lend themselves to blue water sailing, highlighting its stable and manageable handling in various sea states.

Accommodations and Layout

Information regarding the specific interior layout of the Blue Chip 30 is less detailed in publicly available specifications. However, given its design as a cruiser from the 1960s-1980s and Cape Cod Shipbuilding's general approach, the interior would likely feature a practical and durable layout. Typical accommodations for a nearly 30-foot sailboat of this era would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. While specific headroom figures are not available, boats from this builder are known for their sturdy, often molded fiberglass interiors. The finish quality would likely prioritize durability and traditional aesthetics, often incorporating wood trim to soften the fiberglass elements, providing a functional and reasonably comfortable living space below decks for coastal cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Blue Chip 30, or Cape Cod 30, frequently praise its robust construction and seaworthy characteristics. The high ballast ratio often translates into a stable and forgiving motion, making it a reassuring boat in a chop or heavier weather. Many appreciate its classic lines and the enduring quality synonymous with Cape Cod Shipbuilding. The long keel contributes to excellent directional stability, though it may make the boat less nimble in tight maneuvering compared to fin keel designs. While specific common problems are not widely documented, a general observation for boats of this vintage across many manufacturers often points to the need for updating original systems such as electrical wiring, plumbing, and occasionally re-bedding deck hardware to prevent leaks over time. Overall, the Blue Chip 30 is often regarded as a dependable and comfortable cruiser for those who value traditional sailing qualities and a solid build.