Express 30 (Killing) Information, Review, Specs

The Express 30's lineage traces back to 1981, the year Goman Boat Ltd. was founded in Midland, Ontario, by Bill Goman and designer Steve Killing. Killing, who had previously honed his skills as an in-house designer for the iconic C&C Yachts, aimed to create boats that offered a harmonious blend of speed and comfort. Production of the Express 30, a direct beneficiary of Killing's early commissions after leaving C&C, began in 1981.

Steve Killing's design philosophy for the Express 30 focused on creating a "30-foot boat that would have performance, comfort and grace." His expertise, which extended to America's Cup design, significantly influenced the performance characteristics of the Goman and Express lines. The boat features a fiberglass solid hull and deck, a standard material choice for production boats of its era, known for balancing strength, weight, and cost-effectiveness. The Express 30 was initially introduced with a fin keel and spade rudder, features that contribute to its maneuverability and performance. While early boats had a full liner, later versions saw the liner cut at the floor, suggesting minor design refinements during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Express 30 is characterized by its balanced and stable handling across various points of sail, making it a satisfying yacht for those seeking an active sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.11, the Express 30 is well-equipped for good performance in lighter air. This ratio suggests that the boat has ample sail area relative to its displacement, allowing it to accelerate and maintain speed even in less wind. Owners have noted its effectiveness in light air, though it can be easily overpowered if the wind picks up significantly, necessitating reefing or sail changes.

Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (B/D) of around 0.426 indicates a relatively stiff and stable boat. This higher ballast ratio contributes to the boat's ability to stand up to more wind, providing a stable platform for both racing and cruising. The Displacement to Length Ratio (D/L) of approximately 248.87 places the Express 30 in the moderate displacement category, indicating a design that balances cruising comfort with respectable performance, rather than being an ultra-light racer or a heavy, traditional cruiser. The boat is reported to point well to weather, reflecting Killing's experience in high-performance yacht design.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Express 30 offers a clean, airy, and functional design, despite its primary focus as a racer/cruiser. While specific maximum headroom is not consistently documented, the layout is designed for comfortable overnighting and coastal cruising. Typically, the interior includes a V-berth forward, which is described as comfortably roomy at six feet. A head compartment is situated forward of the main bulkhead on the starboard side, with a good-sized hanging locker opposite. The salon area would likely feature settees and a table, suitable for dining and relaxation. A galley area is usually present, often including a stove and fridge, though it may be spartan in some configurations. Adequate lighting and windows contribute to an open feeling below deck. Some versions might include an A-bunk or optional side bunks for additional sleeping capacity.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners generally praise the Express 30 as a "great boat" that successfully balances racing capabilities with cruising comfort. It is often chosen by those looking for a boat that can be competitive on the race course but also enjoyed for leisure cruising. A recurring theme among owners is the boat's excellent light-air performance. However, some owners have noted that early models could have issues, including potential mast step problems that might require reinforcing under the mast. The tendency to be easily overpowered in stronger winds is also mentioned, suggesting that active sail management is important for optimal performance. Despite these minor points, the enduring presence of the Express 30 on the used boat market and active owner communities attest to its lasting appeal and the quality of its original design and construction.