Lippincott 30 Information, Review, Specs

The Lippincott 30 was in production from 1979 to 1986, marking a period when Lippincott Boat Works expanded its horizons beyond its traditional focus on racing dinghies and small keelboats. The company, founded by brothers Robert and Howard Lippincott in 1946, had a strong legacy of building high-quality, high-performance vessels, pioneered in fiberglass construction. Their meticulous construction techniques and embrace of weight-saving designs, which had made their racing yachts consistently competitive, were carried into their larger cruising models. The Lippincott 30, designed by Howard Lippincott Jr., aimed to integrate a comfortable cruising interior and cockpit with performance suitable for a weekend racer. While no significant variations such as MkI or MkII were noted during its production run, the model was available with a standard draft of 4.9 feet, with a shoal draft option of 4.16 feet.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 17.23, the Lippincott 30 demonstrates a moderate sail plan for its displacement, suggesting a balanced performance profile. This ratio indicates that while not an extreme light-air specialist, it should offer respectable performance across a range of wind conditions. A high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.465 points to a very stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners frequently praise the boat's stiffness, attributing it to the generous ballast. The displacement to length ratio of roughly 245.7 places the Lippincott 30 in the moderate-to-heavy displacement category, characteristic of a traditional cruiser built for offshore capability rather than ultra-light racing. Anecdotal evidence suggests the Lippincott 30 offers good all-around sailing characteristics, balancing its cruising amenities with a performance-worthy feel, making it a capable weekend racer and a comfortable cruiser. It is described by owners as sailing stiff and fast.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Lippincott 30 is designed to comfortably accommodate four adults or a family of five. It typically features a V-berth forward, serving as a primary sleeping area. Owners have noted that the interior is very nicely finished, with appointments considered superior to many other production boats of its vintage. The layout generally includes one cabin, a head with a toilet, and often a shower, providing essential comforts for extended cruising. Despite the limited data on maximum headroom in some specifications, the hull design is considered relatively spacious, offering more interior volume than many comparable sailboats. The overall classic design contributes to a welcoming and functional living space below deck. The boat carries a water capacity of 30 gallons.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Lippincott 30 for its robust build quality, excellent sailing characteristics, and superior interior appointments compared to other production boats of its era. Many consider it a "great boat," appreciating its solid construction and comfortable motion. Notably, common issues like extreme osmotic blistering are not frequently reported, and the integrity of the decks and cabin structures is generally well-regarded. While no specific recurring weaknesses or common problems are widely documented, the enduring presence of these vessels on the used market, often well-maintained and updated, speaks to their fundamental quality and the satisfaction of their owners. The Lippincott 30 is often described as a good all-around cruiser/racer, with an emphasis on its cruising capabilities.