Bermuda 30 (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

The Bermuda 30's lineage traces back to L. Francis Herreshoff's H-28, a design he conceived in 1942 as an auxiliary vessel with four key characteristics in mind: the ability to accommodate an engine, affordability, ease of construction, and a comfortable, seaworthy nature. Herreshoff's design philosophy deliberately avoided the influence of racing rules, instead focusing on "principles and economy achieved by straightforward simplicity and good materials." This ethos laid the groundwork for a boat known for its robust and reliable qualities.

Cheoy Lee Shipyard, a family-owned builder with a history spanning over 150 years, began constructing the Bermuda 30 in 1962. During this era, Cheoy Lee was a pioneer in marine construction, venturing into fiberglass production by the mid-1950s and extensively utilizing GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) and foam sandwich technology in the 1960s. The Bermuda 30 itself exemplifies this transition, initially built with Burmese teak hulls and later featuring a fiberglass hull complemented by a traditional wood deck and superstructure. While the ketch rig was standard, some variations were available, including the option of a sloop rig. Production of the Bermuda 30 concluded in 1967.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Bermuda 30's design firmly places it in the category of a heavy displacement cruiser, a characteristic reflected in its calculated Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 327. This high ratio indicates a boat designed for a comfortable motion in a seaway and exceptional stability, rather than light-air racing performance. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 12.9 further supports this, suggesting that while she may not excel in very light breezes, she is well-suited for handling heavier air conditions with confidence.

With a long keel and transom-hung rudder, the Bermuda 30 is known for excellent directional stability and tracking offshore. Owners frequently describe her as a "safe, docile, and easily sailed" boat, capable of handling various sea states. The ketch rig, featuring both a mainsail and a mizzen, provides a versatile sail plan that can be easily managed by a single person or a short-handed crew, offering numerous options for balancing the boat and adapting to changing wind conditions. While praised for its sailing prowess, some owners note that its heavy displacement and long keel configuration can make handling under power, particularly in tight marina spaces, require some getting used to.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Cheoy Lee Bermuda 30, consistent with its classic cruising design, is typically arranged to provide comfortable and functional living spaces for extended periods aboard. While specific headroom figures are not universally available, original brochures indicated sufficient space to stand upright "without bumping his head," suggesting adequate headroom for many sailors.

Common interior layouts for the Bermuda 30 and its Herreshoff H-28 progenitor generally feature a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A marine head is typically situated to port or starboard, often with a small hanging locker opposite. The main salon usually consists of settees on either side, which can often convert into additional berths, surrounding a dinette table. A compact galley area, equipped with basic cooking facilities and a sink, is usually located aft in the main cabin. Given Cheoy Lee's early use of teak in their yacht construction, the interior of many Bermuda 30s features a warm and traditional finish with extensive wood trim, contributing to a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Storage is typically ample for a boat of its size, designed to accommodate the needs of a cruising couple or small family.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Cheoy Lee Bermuda 30 consistently praise its robust construction and timeless design. Many highlight its seaworthiness and comfortable motion, affirming its reputation as a reliable cruising vessel. The ketch rig is often cited as a significant advantage, providing excellent versatility and making the boat easy to handle even for single-handed sailors. The traditional lines of the Bermuda 30 also frequently draw compliments in any harbor. These factors have contributed to the boat's ability to retain its value and maintain a devoted owner base over the years.

While widely admired, a commonly noted aspect by owners is the learning curve associated with maneuvering a heavy, long-keeled boat under power, especially in confined areas. Owners of the earlier wooden versions may also face the typical maintenance considerations associated with classic timber vessels, though the later fiberglass hull models address many of these concerns, offering a balance of traditional appeal with reduced upkeep requirements. Overall, the Cheoy Lee Bermuda 30 is highly regarded as a solid, capable, and comfortable sailboat, ideal for those seeking a traditional cruising experience.