PJ-30 1/2 Ton Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the PJ-30 1/2 Ton began in 1973. This model was the second iteration of the PJ-30 line and was also sold concurrently in Canada under the North Star 1000 nameplate, featuring a slightly different deck and coach house design. The builder, Hughes Boat Works, was at this time operating as Northstar Yachts Ltd. under the ownership of US Steel, a period marked by significant collaborations with Sparkman & Stephens. S&S was renowned for creating elegant and fast yachts, and their designs for the IOR rule aimed to strike a balance between performance and seaworthiness., 16] The Half Ton class, a particularly active and competitive rating class in the 1970s, pushed designers like S&S to create efficient, high-performance hulls. The PJ-30 1/2 Ton features a hull form that is described as "slimmer than 54% of all other designs" of its type, suggesting a focused effort on achieving speed.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hughes PJ-30 1/2 Ton combines robust construction with a design geared for solid performance. With a total calculated sail area of 399 square feet and a displacement of 8,000 pounds, it has a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.75. This figure suggests a moderately powered vessel, capable of respectable speeds in various conditions without being overly sensitive in light air or overpowered in heavy breezes.

A significant characteristic of its design is its stability, underscored by a ballast to displacement ratio of roughly 46.4%. This high ratio indicates a stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to a strong wind and provide a comfortable motion when sailing through a seaway. Its displacement to waterline length ratio, calculated at around 306, places it on the heavier side for a performance boat of its size, pointing to a sturdy build quality and an emphasis on stability over extreme lightness. This robust nature is further supported by descriptions of the North Star 1000 as a "heavy sailboat which is a reasonably good performer," noting its "very stable / stiff and has a good righting capability if capsized." The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for providing good directional stability and some protection for the rudder blade.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the North Star 1000 (PJ-30 1/2 Ton) was designed to accommodate up to six berths, alongside a functional galley and a dedicated toilet facility, reflecting its dual role as a racer and a coastal cruiser. While specific detailed layouts can vary, a typical arrangement for a boat of this size and era would include a V-berth forward, a convertible dinette or opposing settees in the main salon that can serve as additional berths, and potentially quarter berths aft. Given that Hughes Boat Works offered some of its models in both finished and kit forms, the precise interior finish and amenities could have seen some variation based on the original owner's choices and subsequent customizations.