Lanaverre 630 H Information, Review, Specs

The Lanaverre 630 H emerged in 1968, during a transformative period for its builder, Lanaverre. The company, which began its boat-building endeavors in 1955, was at the forefront of adopting Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) – or fiberglass – for marine construction. This pioneering move away from traditional wood allowed Lanaverre to implement mass production techniques, resulting in vessels that were not only more consistent in performance but also required less maintenance, thereby making sailing more accessible. François Sergent, the designer of the 630 H, was known for his practical approach, focusing on creating designs that were "actually affordable for the average Frenchman". This ethos perfectly aligned with Lanaverre's mission to bring sailing to the masses. The 630 H was primarily offered in a fin keel configuration, denoted by the "H" in its name, but a swing keel version, simply called the Lanaverre 630, was also available, featuring a variable draft. Production of the Lanaverre 630 H likely ceased around 1976, when the Lanaverre brand itself was retired following a merger into Yachting France.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Lanaverre 630 H, with a length overall of 20.67 feet and a waterline length of 18.86 feet, presents a design indicative of a small, traditional cruiser. Its reported sail area of 204 square feet, combined with a displacement of 2646 pounds, yields a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.0. This ratio suggests a moderate performer, capable of moving well in a range of conditions but particularly suited for general cruising rather than high-performance racing. With a displacement to length ratio of around 295, the 630 H falls into the heavier category for its size, suggesting a robust and stable platform that might offer a more comfortable motion in a seaway compared to lighter boats. Its ballast to displacement ratio of approximately 0.29 indicates a more modest level of stiffness, which is common for boats of this size and intended purpose. The boat is designed with a fin keel and a transom-hung rudder, contributing to straightforward handling characteristics. While specific anecdotal descriptions are limited, the design principles and ratios suggest a boat that is predictable and manageable for coastal cruising or day sailing, aligning with Sergent's aim for accessible designs.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of a 20-foot sailboat like the Lanaverre 630 H is inherently compact, prioritizing essential amenities within its modest beam of 7.38 feet. While specific details on the maximum headroom or comprehensive interior diagrams for the 630 H are not widely available, one can expect a functional layout typical for a small cruiser of its era. Such arrangements often include a V-berth forward for sleeping, a simple salon area with settees that may double as berths, and a basic galley area, likely with space for a small stove and a sink. Storage would be modest, consisting of lockers under berths and perhaps some shelving. Given the focus on affordability and a solid fiberglass hull and deck construction, the interior finish would likely be practical, favoring durability over luxury. These accommodations are generally designed to provide a comfortable, albeit basic, space for weekend trips or day sailing, emphasizing efficient use of the limited space available.