Kirby 30 Information, Review, Specs

Measuring just under 30 feet in length overall with a waterline of 23.5 feet, the Kirby 30 boasts a narrow 10.25-foot beam and a deep 5.5-foot fin keel, hinting at its performance pedigree. Its displacement of 5,350 pounds and a fractional sloop rig further underscore its design intent as a spirited racer.

History and Design

The Kirby 30 emerged from the innovative spirit of Mirage Yachts Ltd., a company founded by Dick and Irene Steffen in 1972, initially to fill a market gap for smaller, high-performance sailboats not offered by larger builders like C&C. After successfully launching the Kirby 25 to compete with the J/24, Mirage Yachts commissioned Bruce Kirby to design a larger counterpart to challenge the J/30, leading to the birth of the Kirby 30 in 1981.

Bruce Kirby, renowned for his design of the Laser dinghy, imbued the Kirby 30 with a clear racing philosophy. His goal was to create a boat that was not only fast but also provided "enough interior" to be functional, albeit with a focus on competitive performance over extensive cruising amenities. Mirage Yachts, known for their solid construction and excellent fiberglass work, executed Kirby's design with a simple yet robust build quality. Production of the Kirby 30 continued into the mid-1980s, eventually seeing a modified version, the Mirage 30SX, introduced in 1985 with a different deck molding, a larger rig, and a deeper keel and rudder, further emphasizing its racing capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Kirby 30's design ratios distinctly mark it as a performance-oriented vessel. With a high Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 22.46, the boat is well-powered and exhibits excellent performance in light air. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 0.43 indicates a stiff and stable platform, allowing it to stand up to a significant amount of wind without excessive heeling. Furthermore, a low Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 184.02 signifies a relatively light displacement for its waterline length, contributing to its agility and speed.

Owners and reviewers consistently praise the Kirby 30's spirited performance and agile handling. It is known to race above its rating and is capable of carrying a 165% genoa and 100% staysail to weather, while downwind it can fly a 165% genaker and two staysails. The fractional rig, a hallmark of Bruce Kirby's racing designs, combined with a bendy mast, allows for precise sail shape control, a crucial element for optimizing performance. The spade rudder ensures responsive steering, and despite the presence of running backstays (essential for controlling the flexible mast), sailors report that the cockpit layout minimizes any common sheet-handler problems. The boat's fin keel, incorporating a new section for its time, further enhances its upwind performance and overall efficiency through the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Reflecting its primary purpose as a racing sailboat, the Kirby 30 features a minimalist interior designed for efficiency rather than luxurious cruising comfort. Standing headroom is not a feature of this model, aligning it more with the interior characteristics of other racing-focused designs of its era, such as the J/29.

While specific original interior layouts vary based on individual vessel modifications, the general arrangement would typically prioritize functional space for a racing crew. This usually includes basic sleeping accommodations, likely a V-berth forward, and simple settee berths in the salon area. A rudimentary galley setup, perhaps with a sink and space for a portable cooler, and a marine head would also be present. The construction quality, with excellent exposed fiberglass work, suggests a durable but not overly adorned finish. Many owners have undertaken upgrades, such as repainting interiors and redoing bulkheads and decks, to modernize and personalize their boats.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Kirby 30 frequently laud its exceptional speed and competitive capabilities on the racecourse. The boat's ability to consistently perform above its rating is a commonly cited strength, making it a desirable option for club racers and those looking for a fast, fun package. The robust construction, predominantly fiberglass, and the well-regarded sailing characteristics contribute to its continued appeal in the used boat market, particularly in Canada, where owners form active communities.

Despite its many strengths, a recurring concern noted by some owners is the mast, which is reportedly known for being "twisty" and has been associated with breakage issues. This characteristic may require careful management and possibly reinforcement or upgrades to ensure long-term reliability for competitive use. However, for sailors prioritizing speed and a lively sailing experience, the Kirby 30 remains a sought-after and affordable option.