Etap 30 Information, Review, Specs

The Etap 30 was in production from 1985 to 1994, with approximately 220 units built during this period. Its creation by Jacques de Ridder aimed to deliver an easily-driven hull that was notably advanced for a 30-foot cruiser of its era. This design aligned perfectly with Etap Yachting's pioneering approach, which desde its founding in 1970, prioritized the development of modern cruising yachts with paramount focus on safety and comfort.

A defining characteristic of the Etap 30, inherited from the builder's overarching design philosophy, is its unique double-hull construction. This innovative technique involves injecting foam between an inner and outer fiberglass hull, rendering the boat virtually unsinkable and providing excellent insulation that reduces condensation, leading to a drier and more comfortable interior. While the standard Etap 30 featured a fin keel with a maximum draft of 5.9 feet, a shoal draft version was also available, drawing 4.25 feet, offering greater accessibility to shallower waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Etap 30 exhibits a balanced blend of cruising comfort and responsive performance, owing to its well-proportioned design and moderate specifications. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.03, the Etap 30 is designed for a good overall performance across various wind conditions, indicating a vessel that is neither overtly sluggish nor an extreme light-air specialist. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 38.18% suggests decent initial stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind, though perhaps not as stiffly as some dedicated performance-oriented designs. Her displacement to length ratio of roughly 224.48 places her in the medium-displacement category, implying a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing too much speed.

Anecdotal evidence from owners often praises the Etap 30 for its excellent sailing capabilities, particularly its strong windward performance. Many consider her "an excellent sailing vessel" that was "ahead of most other 30ft cruisers" at the time of her launch. While she is noted to be somewhat slower off the wind compared to more modern, lighter designs, her ability to make good progress against the wind is consistently highlighted. The boat's fin keel and spade rudder contribute to her agile handling and precise steering, ensuring a satisfying experience at the helm.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Etap 30 is designed to maximize comfort and usability within its 29.6-foot length overall. Though specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, Etap's reputation for prioritizing comfort suggests a well-thought-out living space. Information regarding the later Etap 30i, which likely shares design commonalities, mentions an interior featuring light ash wood and a teak and holly sole, contributing to a bright and classic aesthetic.

Typical layouts for a boat of this size usually include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley, and a head compartment. Etap's double-hull construction not only provides safety but also superior insulation, which helps to prevent condensation, leading to a drier interior and more comfortable living environment compared to many conventionally built boats of its era. Storage is generally ample for coastal cruising, and ventilation is typically achieved through deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Etap 30 frequently express a strong affinity for their vessels, often considering them to be among the best boats produced by Etap. The solid construction and the distinctive unsinkable double-hull feature are consistently highlighted as significant strengths, offering peace of mind and enhanced safety. Many praise the Etap 30's excellent sailing abilities, particularly its performance to windward, and its comfortable motion in various sea states. The boat is generally regarded as a spacious and capable cruiser for its size, making it suitable for couples or small families.

However, the unique double-hull construction, while providing benefits, can present challenges when it comes to certain types of repairs or modifications. Some owners have noted that the foam core between the hulls can make accessing or repairing internal components more complex. Despite this, the Etap 30 maintains a high resale value, reflecting its enduring quality, robust build, and continued popularity among sailors who prioritize a safe, comfortable, and well-performing cruising experience.