Wanderer 30 (Laurent Giles) Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Wanderer 30 is rooted in the celebrated design lineage of Jack Laurent Giles, particularly his "Wanderer" class, which gained fame through Eric and Susan Hiscock's circumnavigations aboard the 30-foot Wanderer III. Laurent Giles's philosophy, influenced by the robust English pilot boat type, aimed to create yachts specifically for the "family man who wants a boat fit for blue-water sailing". The Wanderer 30, a design crafted in this tradition, began production in 1960, with Cheoy Lee Shipyard in Hong Kong becoming a notable builder, producing 33 units of this wooden vessel. During this era, Cheoy Lee was establishing its reputation for craftsmanship in elegant teak sailing yachts and pioneered the use of innovative construction techniques, even as this particular model maintained traditional wood construction. The design was also built by several other yards worldwide, further underscoring its broad appeal as a capable offshore cruiser. The Laurent Giles design practice was instrumental in the evolution of cruising yacht design during this significant period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Wanderer 30's design prioritizes seaworthiness and comfortable motion over light-air speed. With a displacement of 18,000 pounds and a waterline length of 24.5 feet, she carries an exceptionally high Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 546.4. This heavy displacement is characteristic of a robust cruiser, providing stability and a comfortable ride, especially in challenging sea states. Her reported sail area of 423 square feet results in a low Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of around 9.85. This suggests that while she may not excel in light breezes, she is designed to be easily driven by stronger winds, making her a capable performer in more boisterous conditions.

The vessel features a long keel with a transom-hung rudder, a configuration known for excellent directional stability and a forgiving motion, particularly on long passages. A ballast ratio of 38.0% further contributes to her inherent stability, allowing her to stand up to the wind effectively and maintain a steady course. This combination of heavy displacement, a substantial ballast ratio, and a full keel ensures a powerful and predictable sailing experience, well-suited for offshore adventures.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data for the Laurent Giles Wanderer 30 from Cheoy Lee is not widely detailed in specifications, the design emphasizes practical and comfortable living space for extended cruising. The interior of these classic wooden sloops typically features a traditional layout, maximizing the usable volume within her 9.33-foot beam. Descriptions of similar Laurent Giles Wanderer sloops note an "original interior with many attractive features," implying thoughtful craftsmanship and classic joinery. Owners can expect a functional arrangement, likely including a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that may convert to berths, and a galley for preparing meals. Given its designation as a blue-water cruiser for families, the layout would have been designed for utility and comfort at sea, prioritizing storage and secure handholds.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Laurent Giles Wanderer 30 and its close kin, such as the Wanderer III, often praise these boats for their robust construction and exceptional seaworthiness, characteristics essential for their intended purpose of long-distance cruising. The design's heritage from Eric Hiscock's circumnavigating vessel underscores its capability to handle diverse ocean conditions with confidence. While not designed for racing, owners appreciate the Wanderer 30's stable and predictable handling, which contributes to a comfortable motion during extended voyages. The solid, traditional construction, particularly of the wooden Cheoy Lee builds, is a frequent point of commendation, speaking to the enduring quality and craftsmanship.