Frers 30 Information, Review, Specs

Boat drawing
Make
Frers
Model
30
Number Built
Production Year(s)
1987 - ??

The Frers 30 is a high-performance monohull sailboat, meticulously designed by the renowned naval architect Germán Frers and expertly built by Carroll Marine in the United States. Introduced in 1987, this vessel quickly established a reputation as a capable dual-purpose racer/cruiser, blending exhilarating speed with a surprisingly comfortable and well-appointed interior. Its essence lies in its ability to offer competitive performance on the racecourse while providing a "warm and well laid out cabin space" that is often unexpected in a boat of its performance pedigree.

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The Frers 30 began its production run in 1987, a product of the collaboration between celebrated designer Germán Frers and the esteemed builder Carroll Marine. Carroll Marine, established in 1984, was celebrated for its unwavering commitment to high-performance sailboats, leveraging advanced materials and cutting-edge construction techniques. During its operational period, Carroll Marine consistently partnered with top naval architects, including Germán Frers, to bring world-class designs to life.

Germán Frers, known for his visionary approach to yacht design, consistently emphasizes reliability, sea-kindness, and a well-balanced aesthetic in his creations. His design philosophy, centered on strong construction and simple yet effective rigs, found a natural home with Carroll Marine's robust building ethos. The Frers 30 emerged from this synergy as a vessel intended to excel in both spirited racing and comfortable coastal cruising, embodying the builder's focus on speed, efficiency, and superior quality. Search results do not indicate any significant variations or marks in its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Frers 30's design ratios underscore its performance-oriented character. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 20.07, the boat boasts ample sail power for its displacement, suggesting excellent performance in lighter air conditions and the ability to be easily driven. This ratio indicates a lively and responsive boat rather than a sluggish one.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, calculated at around 37.68%, points to a solid and stable platform. While not an extremely high number, it contributes to the boat's described characteristic of being "stable / stiff," allowing it to stand up to a respectable amount of wind without excessive heeling. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 175.25 further confirms its identity as a light, performance-focused vessel. This lower ratio is typical of boats designed for speed and agility, as opposed to heavy, traditional cruisers. The hull features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a classic configuration optimized for efficient hydrodynamics and responsive steering, which contributes to its reputation as a "light sailboat which is a high performer." Owners often note that while the Frers 30 "sails very evenly," it also possesses a "narrow groove," meaning it rewards precise trimming and skilled helmsmanship with optimal performance. Sailing Anarchy Forums in previous search

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its "go fast" capabilities, the Frers 30 offers interior accommodations that are surprisingly "warm and well laid out." The cabin space is described as "decent" with "reasonable sea-worthy cabin configurations," suggesting a thoughtful approach to utilizing the available volume below deck for both comfort and practicality at sea. The boat carries a water capacity of 30 gallons and a fuel capacity of 12 gallons, which are suitable for its size and intended use as a racer/cruiser. While specific details on the exact arrangement of berths, galley, and head are not extensively detailed in general reviews, the overall impression is one of a functional and inviting space for a boat of its dimensions and performance focus.

Owner's Perspectives

The Frers 30 has cultivated a loyal following, with owners frequently praising its enduring quality and spirited performance. The boat has "retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base," a testament to Carroll Marine's construction standards and Germán Frers' design integrity. Many owners appreciate its versatility as a "great dual purpose racer/cruiser," highlighting its ability to transition seamlessly between competitive sailing and comfortable leisure. While general sailboat maintenance issues are common across all models, specific widespread design flaws or recurring problems unique to the Frers 30 are not consistently noted in available owner feedback, suggesting a generally reliable and well-regarded vessel.

Measurements

Construction & Hull

Construction Material
Fiberglass (Solid)
Hull Type
Monohull Sailboat
Keel Type
Fin
Rudder
1x Spade
Ballast
2600 lbs
Displacement
6900 lbs
Water Capacity
30 gal
Fuel Capacity
12 gal

Engine

Engine Make
Yanmar
Engine Model
Engine Type
Engine HP
Engine Count
1
Drive Type
Fuel Type
Diesel
Hover over a measurement
IJPE FS LOALWL

Rig & Sails

Rig Type
Masthead Sloop
P (Main Luff)
36 ft
E (Main Foot)
11.8 ft
I (Foretriangle Height)
41.7 ft
J (Foretriangle Base)
11.8 ft
Forestay Length (est)
43.34 ft
Main Sail Area
212.4 sqft
Foretriangle Sail Area
246.03 sqft
Total Sail Area (Reported)
458 sqft
Total Sail Area (Calc)
458.43 sqft

Dimensions

LOA
29.5 ft
LWL
26 ft
Beam
10.92 ft
Draft
5.75 ft
Max Headroom
-
Air Draft
-

Calculations

Hull Speed
6.83 kn
Pounds per Inch Immersion
1