Sun Odyssey 30 I (Jeanneau) Information, Review, Specs

The Sun Odyssey 30 I began its production run in 2008, emerging from Jeanneau's extensive facilities, including its historical home in Les Herbiers, France. Designed by Marc Lombard, a long-standing partner of Jeanneau known for designs inspired by race boats, the 30 I was conceived as a cruiser that would offer exceptional performance while prioritizing ease of handling. During this period, Jeanneau continued its tradition of embracing advanced construction techniques, including the use of resin infusion molding for its larger models, which creates a reinforced composite and is more ecologically sound. While the 30i's specific hull construction method isn't detailed, Jeanneau generally emphasizes quality and innovation across its range, aiming for enjoyable and unique experiences on the water. The Sun Odyssey line, to which the 30 I belongs, is specifically celebrated for combining comfort with high-performance characteristics. Notably, a "beachable" keel/centerboard version of the Sun Odyssey 30 I was also made available, offering versatility for shallower waters, in addition to the standard fin keel with bulb and spade rudder configuration.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 30 I is designed to deliver an engaging sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 17.5, she demonstrates good potential for performance, particularly in lighter air conditions, suggesting she can be easily driven and responsive. Her Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 195 places her in the lighter, more performance-oriented cruising category for a boat of her size, indicating she should be agile and relatively quick. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio, at about 0.24, is on the lower side, which suggests a design that prioritizes lightness for performance, though it may imply she is less stiff than heavily ballasted cruisers and will require reefing earlier in stronger winds. Despite this, the Sun Odyssey 30 I is consistently described as a seaworthy sailboat that delivers exceptional performance, particularly known for its easy handling. Her modern fin keel with bulb and spade rudder contribute to good maneuverability and responsiveness under sail.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 30 I is remarkably well-appointed below deck, lauded for its efficient use of space and comfortable amenities. It features a layout described as being divided into "three living spaces," an innovative approach for a 30-footer that maximizes comfort and utility. The interior is notably spacious, offering standing headroom throughout, which greatly enhances liveability whether at sea or at anchor. Typically, the Sun Odyssey 30 I includes two guest cabins and one head compartment, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to five people, with four standard berths and an additional berth in the saloon. Jeanneau's overarching design philosophy for its Sun Odyssey range prioritizes creating "liveable boats" with clever layouts, comfortable details, brightly lit and well-ventilated interiors, high-quality equipment, and intelligent storage solutions, all of which are evident in the 30 I.