Evolution 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The creation of the Evolution 30 falls within the operational span of Evolution Yachts Ltd., a company founded in 1977 by Eric Reynolds and Julian Everitt. Everitt, who had established Julian Everitt Yacht Design in 1966, was the sole designer for Evolution models, imbuing them with a consistent philosophy aimed at producing capable cruiser-racers. The Evolution 30, a 30-foot lifting keel vessel, was specifically designed as a "fast cruiser". A hallmark of Everitt's approach for the Evolution range was the integration of lifting or fully retractable keels, a feature that provided significant advantages such as shallow draft capabilities, allowing access to shallower waters and enabling the boats to "take the ground upright". This design choice also offered flexibility for trailering or easier storage, appealing to sailors seeking both performance and convenience. Only 18 units of the Evolution 30 were built during its production run from 1980 to 1984. No significant design variations, such as MkI/MkII versions or different rig configurations beyond the standard fractional sloop, are widely documented for this model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.38, the Evolution 30 is categorized as a moderate cruiser-racer. This ratio suggests a balanced performance profile, capable of good speeds in moderate wind conditions without being overly sensitive in lighter airs. The ballast to displacement ratio stands at a healthy 0.40, indicating a stiff and stable vessel that should stand up well to a breeze, offering a comfortable and secure motion. Her displacement to length ratio of around 256.86 places her in the moderate displacement category for a 30-foot sailboat, suggesting a design that prioritizes a blend of speed and interior volume over extreme light-weight performance. Julian Everitt explicitly designed the Evolution 30 as a "fast cruiser", which aligns with these calculated ratios, implying a boat that is both rewarding to sail and capable of covering distances efficiently. While specific anecdotal reviews on its precise handling characteristics in various sea states are not widely available, its design as a lifting keel cruiser-racer indicates an emphasis on versatility and agreeable manners for coastal and potentially offshore cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed information regarding the specific interior accommodations and layout of the Evolution 30 is not extensively documented in public resources. However, given its designation as a 30-foot fast cruiser produced in the early 1980s, one can infer a typical layout for a vessel of its size and era. Such boats commonly feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. Storage would likely be provided through lockers and shelving. The interior finish quality would typically reflect the fiberglass construction methods of the period, often complemented by wood trim to add warmth. The inclusion of a lifting keel, while providing practical benefits for shallow water access, would also necessitate a design that cleverly integrates the keel trunk into the interior living space.