S 30 (Reimers) Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the S 30 lies in the vision of Knud Reimers, a celebrated designer known for his elegant and efficient yacht designs. Production of the S 30 commenced in 1973, primarily carried out by Fisksätra Shipyard in Sweden, a builder linked to the broader manufacturing operations of Fiskars. Fiskars, a company with centuries of history rooted in metalwork, expanded into boat building, leveraging its industrial expertise to produce various watercraft, including fiberglass sailboats during this era. Reimers' design philosophy for the S 30 aimed to strike a balance between speed and elegance, characterized by sleek hulls designed to minimize drag and long overhangs. Notably, Reimers intentionally gave the S 30 a wider beam compared to more traditional square meter boats, a deliberate choice to enhance interior volume and comfort without sacrificing its sailing prowess. Approximately 300 units of the S 30 were built, with production extending into the early 1980s.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Reimers S 30 is characterized by a fin keel and spade rudder configuration, which typically contributes to responsive handling and good maneuverability. With a length overall exceeding 41 feet and a waterline length of nearly 30 feet, the S 30's design promotes a hull speed of approximately 7.29 knots. Her displacement of 7,055 pounds in combination with her waterline length results in a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 121.2, categorizing her as a relatively light and performance-oriented vessel for her size.

The boat boasts a significant ballast-to-displacement ratio of nearly 47% (3,307 lbs ballast out of 7,055 lbs displacement), which is indicative of a stiff and stable boat. This high ratio suggests the S 30 is capable of standing up well to a breeze and offers excellent righting capability. While precise total sail area figures are not consistently reported across all specifications, the S 30 is generally considered a light sailboat with a fractional sloop rig. Anecdotal accounts suggest that while stable, reaching optimal speeds downwind may necessitate the use of a gennaker or spinnaker. Overall, the S 30 is recognized for its stable and stiff performance, making it a capable cruiser that can handle varied conditions with confidence.

Accommodations and Layout

Although detailed interior specifications like maximum headroom are not widely standardized, the S 30's design, with Reimers' intentional choice for a wider beam, aimed to offer more interior space than its narrow-beamed square meter yacht predecessors. Access to the main cabin is typically via a sliding coach roof hatch from the cockpit. Owners generally praise the S 30's enduring quality and robust construction, with many boats remaining with the same families or owners for decades. Interior layouts commonly feature standard cruising amenities, designed for comfortable overnight stays and coastal voyages, consistent with her purpose as an elegant yet practical cruiser.