Irwin 30 Competition Information, Review, Specs

The Irwin 30 Competition began production in 1972. Its creation aligns with designer Ted Irwin's personal interest in competitive sailboat racing, a passion that influenced many of his designs at Irwin Yachts, 2, 5, 6]. While Irwin Yachts was known for producing a diverse range of vessels, including comfortable cruising boats tailored for the charter market, the 30 Competition was clearly an embodiment of Irwin's performance-oriented philosophy, 8]. It was built with an oversized rig and a long fin keel, indicating its design intent for speed and pointing ability. During this era, Irwin Yachts consistently utilized fiberglass construction, a standard practice in the industry that contributed to the durability of their vessels, 9]. The "Competition" designation differentiated it from other 30-foot Irwin models, such as the standard Irwin 30 or the later Irwin 30 Citation, and was specifically based on IOR (International Offshore Rule) Half-Ton specifications. A shoal draft version was also available, offering versatility for different sailing grounds.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 30 Competition boasts performance characteristics indicative of its racing lineage, while still providing a stable ride. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.24, she demonstrates moderate light-air performance, suggesting she'll move well in a breeze but isn't an extreme light-wind specialist. Her ballast to displacement ratio of 0.46 is relatively high, contributing significantly to her stiffness and stability, allowing her to stand up to a greater amount of wind without excessive heel. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at around 228.9, places her in the mid-range of weight classes; she is neither an ultra-light racer nor a heavy, traditional cruiser, indicating a design that seeks a balance between speed and seakindliness.

Equipped with a masthead sloop rig and a fin keel paired with a skeg-hung rudder, the Irwin 30 Competition is designed for responsive handling and good directional stability. Owners generally report that the boat sails well, offering a safe and controlled motion even in varied conditions. The deep draft of 5.33 feet, in the standard configuration, provides excellent lateral resistance for upwind performance. Power is supplied by a Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine, common for boats of this era.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing pedigree, the Irwin 30 Competition is noted for a surprisingly comfortable and spacious interior, particularly benefiting from its generous 10.17-foot beam. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, owners praise the "excellent and very comfortable cabin layout". The interior arrangement typically features a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, and a galley area. The head compartment's original placement was sometimes near the mast, likely for weight centralization in racing, but some owners have modified it to a more traditional cruising location, suggesting a non-molded liner construction that allowed for such changes. The boat carries a water capacity of 50 gallons and a fuel capacity of 20 gallons, supporting extended periods aboard. The general finish quality typically involves a combination of fiberglass and wood trim, providing a classic yacht aesthetic.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently commend the Irwin 30 Competition for its robust construction, solid performance, and the comfortable nature of its cabin, often highlighting its suitability as a very safe boat. The blend of racing capability and interior comfort is a recurring theme among those who own or have sailed her.

However, like many boats of its vintage, the Irwin 30 Competition is not without its common maintenance considerations. A noted issue by some owners pertains to leaks, particularly in the forward area, often attributed to original deck fittings that may require re-bedding over time. This is a common challenge for older fiberglass boats, and prospective owners should be prepared for potential refurbishment projects. Despite these typical age-related concerns, the enduring appeal and practicality of Irwin designs mean that many 30 Competitions remain active in the sailing community, often undergoing restoration or repowering to extend their useful lives.