Mumm 30 (Farr 30) Information, Review, Specs

The Mumm 30's inception in 1995 marked a significant moment in one-design racing. The goal for its designer, Bruce Farr of Farr Yacht Design, was to create a state-of-the-art offshore one-design that was not only fast and exciting but also uncomplicated and economical. The design process involved applying a simple test: "will this detail or feature make the boat more fun to sail?". This philosophy resulted in a vessel known for its engaging sailing characteristics. The yacht was later rebranded as the Farr 30, reflecting its enduring design lineage.

McDell Marine, the builder, is a New Zealand company with a prestigious reputation for crafting exceptional yachts, particularly known for its collaborations with Farr Yacht Design. During the era of the Mumm 30's production, McDell Marine's manufacturing ethos was characterized by precision, robust construction, and efficient production, ensuring that high-performance designs like the Farr 30 were brought to life with both speed and seaworthiness. The company's expertise lies in upholding the high brand expectations of its design partners and clients, a testament to Kiwi craftsmanship and commitment to quality. The class rules do mention variations to the hull, deck, interior, keel, rudder, or rig, suggesting that while a one-design class, minor adjustments or specific builds might have occurred over its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Farr 30 is engineered for exhilarating performance on the racecourse. With a high sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 29.38, it is exceptionally responsive in light air and capable of quickly accelerating. This ratio signifies a powerful sail plan relative to its displacement, typical of a dedicated racing machine. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.438 indicates a very stiff and stable hull, allowing it to stand up to strong winds and carry its sail area effectively without excessive heeling. The displacement to length ratio of approximately 216.23 classifies the Farr 30 as a light, performance-oriented boat, contributing to its nimble handling and speed.

Anecdotal evidence from owners and sailors consistently praises the Farr 30's engaging handling characteristics. It is described as fun to sail, offering a multitude of modes and being particularly rewarding to helm. While it might "struggle" upwind compared to larger race boats, it is widely acclaimed for its downwind performance, with reports of planing at high speeds. The deck layout is considered well-thought-out, and the internal sail controls contribute to its racing efficiency. The use of non-overlapping jibs was a forward-thinking design choice, allowing for smaller, lighter winches and quicker sail changes, further enhancing its performance.

Accommodations and Layout

As a dedicated offshore one-design racer, the Farr 30's interior is functional rather than luxurious, prioritizing weight savings and practicality for racing. The primary focus of its layout is on providing essential facilities for crew during regattas, rather than extended cruising comfort. While specific headroom details are not provided in the structural data, the interior typically features a minimalist arrangement.

Online reviews and forum discussions suggest a basic layout often including V-berths forward for sleeping, a simple head, and a saloon area that might be converted for additional sleeping or gear storage. The galley, if present, is usually rudimentary, designed for quick meal preparation rather than elaborate cooking. Finish quality leans towards durable, lightweight fiberglass construction, with minimal wood trim to reduce weight. Storage is adequate for racing sails and crew gear, and ventilation is typically provided by deck hatches and ports. The interior is generally described as simple, reflecting its purpose as a high-performance racing boat where every ounce counts and the focus is on the sailing experience rather than extensive onboard living.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners and enthusiasts of the Farr 30 (Mumm 30) often express strong appreciation for its pure sailing characteristics and competitive nature. Many describe it as one of the best and most iconic one-design keelboats of its time, with strong global appeal. Owners consistently praise its rewarding performance, particularly its speed and excitement on the water, making it a highly engaging boat to sail. The well-thought-out deck layout and efficient systems are frequently highlighted as strengths, contributing to its ease of handling during races.

However, some common issues or considerations are also noted by owners. Gelcoat issues have been mentioned, with some boats requiring attention in this area. Due to its high-performance design, the Farr 30 typically requires a fair amount of crew to sail well, with numerous lines to manage, which can be a consideration for potential buyers. Given its age, like any performance boat, maintenance of its systems and structure is a recurring theme in owner discussions. Despite these points, the collective viewpoint suggests that the Farr 30 offers significant value for its performance, often punching "well above its weight performance wise".