Cruisaire 30 Clipper (Cheoy Lee) Information, Review, Specs

The Cruisaire 30 Clipper emerged from Cheoy Lee Shipyard during a pivotal period for the builder. Established in 1870, Cheoy Lee had evolved significantly by the mid-20th century, becoming a pioneer in the use of fiberglass as a boatbuilding material in the 1960s. This innovative approach allowed them to produce durable and well-crafted vessels in greater numbers. The shipyard was known for its robust construction and commitment to quality, a reputation that the Cruisaire 30 Clipper embodies, 5].

The design philosophy behind the Cruisaire 30 Clipper aimed for a "significantly more spacy hull design" for its length, suggesting an emphasis on interior volume and comfort. Originally offered with a cutter rig, enhancing her versatility in sail plan management, the Cruisaire 30 Clipper was also available in a ketch configuration. Furthermore, owners had the option of a keel/centerboard version, which provided a variable draft ranging from 2.5 feet with the board up to 6 feet with the board down, offering flexibility for both shallow water access and enhanced performance offshore. The standard fixed keel model features a long keel, contributing to her tracking stability and seakindliness.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Cheoy Lee Cruisaire 30 Clipper's design ratios provide insight into her anticipated sailing characteristics. With a reported sail area of 696 square feet, she boasts a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 21.28. This relatively high number suggests good performance in lighter air conditions, allowing her to move well even with limited wind.

However, her Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 0.25 indicates that she may not be exceptionally stiff under sail, potentially leading to more heel in stronger winds and requiring earlier reefing. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, calculated at roughly 440, places her firmly in the category of a heavy displacement vessel for her length. This high D/L ratio signifies a traditional, robust cruiser. While not built for speed, this heavy displacement contributes to a comfortable and steady motion in a seaway, making her well-suited for extended cruising rather than performance racing. Anecdotal evidence suggests that Cheoy Lee Clippers of this era tend to perform best on a reach.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Cheoy Lee Cruisaire 30 Clipper are not extensively documented in broad public search results, boats of this era and builder typically featured traditional, quality joinery. Cheoy Lee was renowned for its use of elegant teak in its yacht interiors, a common feature in many of their mid-century pleasure craft. The emphasis on a "spacy hull design" for its length suggests a more comfortable living space than some contemporaries.

A typical interior arrangement for a 30-foot cruiser of this vintage would likely include a V-berth forward, a marine head, a salon with opposing settees that may convert to berths, and a compact galley area. The boat carries a water capacity of 50 gallons, indicative of its cruising intentions. Owners often praise the solid construction, which extends to the interior, providing a sense of security and durability.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Cheoy Lee vessels, including those in the Clipper series, often laud their solid fiberglass hull construction and overall durability, which are considered significant strengths. These boats are frequently praised for their comfortable motion, especially in challenging sea conditions, a testament to their heavy displacement design. The traditional teak interiors are also appreciated for their classic appeal and quality craftsmanship.

However, as with any vessel of this age, certain common maintenance points and potential weaknesses have been noted. A recurring issue identified on older Cheoy Lee boats is the potential for significant rust weeping beneath the chainplate attachments, an area that requires careful inspection and maintenance. Owners of Cheoy Lee Clippers from the 1970s have also highlighted that original electrical wiring may be a source of problems due to its age. While not exclusive to the Cruisaire 30 Clipper, original deck fittings and the extensive use of teak decks on many Cheoy Lees can be prone to developing leaks over time, necessitating re-bedding or more extensive restoration efforts. Despite these potential maintenance items, many owners find that the inherent beauty and solid build quality of the Cruisaire 30 Clipper outweigh these considerations.