Hotfoot 30 Information, Review, Specs

The Hotfoot 30 emerged from Hotfoot Boats' production line in 1985, following the builder's established reputation for crafting performance-oriented sailboats. Designed by Doug Hemphill, the Hotfoot 30 carries the ethos of its builder, which originated from Vancouver Island and was known for constructing modern fiberglass yachts. Hemphill's designs for Hotfoot were characterized by a focus on performance, exemplified by earlier successful models like the Hotfoot 27. The Hotfoot 30, with its fin keel and fractional sloop rigging, was conceived to blend speed with practical cruising amenities, and has been noted for its "spacy hull design". There is no widely available information suggesting significant variations in the Hotfoot 30 during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hotfoot 30's design characteristics suggest a boat capable of lively performance. With a reported sail area of 455 square feet and a displacement of 4,600 pounds, its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio stands at approximately 26.33. This high ratio indicates that the Hotfoot 30 is likely a strong performer in lighter air conditions, capable of easily getting underway and maintaining speed.

The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio is approximately 0.434 (43.4%), which is a relatively high figure for a boat of this type. This suggests a good degree of inherent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to its canvas in stronger winds and provide a secure motion. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio, at around 261.7, places the Hotfoot 30 in a moderate to slightly heavier displacement category for a performance-oriented boat of its size. This balance between weight and length contributes to its hull speed of 6.83 knots, indicating a respectable turn of speed for its class. While specific anecdotal descriptions of its handling characteristics are not readily available in public reviews, its design ratios point towards a responsive and stable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

Detailed interior layouts and specific accommodation features for the Hotfoot 30 are not extensively documented in widely available reviews or specifications. However, given its overall length of nearly 30 feet, typical arrangements for a performance cruiser of its era would likely include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a compact galley, and an enclosed head. The "spacy hull design" mentioned in some descriptions might imply a relatively open or well-utilized interior volume for its size. The general construction of Hotfoot Boats emphasized fiberglass, suggesting a robust and durable hull and deck construction, which would typically extend to the interior liner and structural elements. Without specific design diagrams or comprehensive reviews, detailed commentary on finish quality, specific materials used for trim, storage solutions, or ventilation systems remains generalized.