Ocean Bird 30 Information, Review, Specs

Production of the Ocean Bird 30 commenced in 1970, with approximately 25 units ultimately built by Honnor Marine Ltd. The design emerged from a period when Honnor Marine, based in Totnes, Devon, was establishing its legacy for crafting durable and easily managed vessels, often blending GRP construction with classic wooden trims.

Designer John Westell approached the Ocean Bird 30 with a clear philosophy focused on stability and safety. He configured the trimaran as a central monohull with two smaller, sleeker outrigger hulls. This arrangement ensures that upon heeling, the boat pivots around the main hull, with the leeward outrigger immediately immersing to provide self-righting action, preventing the main hull from lifting excessively. Westell famously declared that a properly built trimaran, designed to withstand bad weather, is "just about the safest thing afloat," capable of serving as its "own life raft if all else fails." The boat utilizes a daggerboard rather than a fixed keel to minimize leeway, a common feature in multihulls to allow for shallow draft capability. While specific Mark I and Mark II variations are mentioned, details on their differences are not widely documented.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ocean Bird 30 is frequently lauded by owners for its exceptional stability and straightforward handling, making it an approachable vessel for a wide range of sailors. Its multihull configuration means it sails at a more upright angle than a monohull, allowing it to efficiently convert wind energy into forward motion. Owners often describe it as one of the easiest boats to sail, instilling confidence even in challenging conditions. The design enables the boat to slice through waves, potentially offering a drier ride upwind compared to a monohull that heels significantly. Its centerboard (daggerboard) is crucial for providing effective grip on the water, enhancing its upwind performance.

A defining feature of the Ocean Bird 30 is its "swing-wing" mechanism. The outer hulls can be folded inward, reducing the boat's substantial 23-foot beam to a more manageable 13 feet, which is particularly advantageous for fitting into standard marina berths or for transport. However, it's important to note that the boat cannot be sailed with the outer hulls folded in. While generally praised, some owners have noted a recurring "rudder issue" as a potential "Achilles heel" for the model. Despite being considered heavy by modern standards, a testament to its robust "brick shithouse" build, this contributes to its solid and confidence-inspiring feel on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications on the interior finish are limited, the Ocean Bird 30 provides a functional cruising layout within its 30-foot length. The cabin typically features two berths located forward. Amidships, the vessel includes a marine toilet, a washbasin, a dedicated sail locker, and a hanging locker for storage. The main cabin area is designed to accommodate a dining area and a galley, providing essential amenities for comfortable cruising. The construction, characteristic of Honnor Marine, generally involves a combination of GRP for the hull and deck, with traditional wooden elements likely incorporated into the interior trim, reflecting the builder's commitment to durability and classic aesthetics.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ocean Bird 30 frequently commend its solid construction, with many describing it as being "built like brick shithouse" due to its robust fiberglass and steel beam construction. This substantial build quality contributes to a feeling of security and confidence while underway, even in open ocean conditions, with owners affirming its capability for offshore passages. A significant safety feature highlighted by owners is the closed-cell foam filling within the outer hulls, which provides inherent buoyancy and prevents water intrusion even if the hulls are damaged. The boat's exceptional stability and ease of handling are consistently praised, with one owner noting that "Even the reluctant mariner (my wife) likes it," underscoring its user-friendly nature.

However, the Ocean Bird 30's rarity and the initial high cost of its quality construction meant fewer units were built, making them somewhat difficult to find on the used market. As with any vessel of its vintage, prospective owners may encounter boats requiring renovation or refitting. A recurring concern mentioned by some owners is the potential for "rudder issues," which appears to be a common maintenance point for the model. Despite these considerations, the enduring appeal of the Ocean Bird 30 lies in its unique design, robust build, and proven seaworthiness, fostering a loyal following among those who appreciate its distinctive blend of multihull performance and cruising comfort.