Morgan-Giles 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Morgan-Giles 30 traces back to 1964, when Kenneth Collyer, the chief designer at Morgan-Giles Ltd., penned the design for his own use, originally named Genesis. This design received approval from Francis Charles Morgan-Giles himself, shortly before his passing. Production of the fiberglass version of the Morgan-Giles 30 commenced in 1965 and continued for an impressive period until 1996.

During the era of the Morgan-Giles 30's production, Morgan-Giles Ltd. was celebrated for its unwavering commitment to quality, elegance, and practical performance, a legacy established by F.C. Morgan-Giles. The company, based in Teignmouth, Devon, was known for producing meticulously built vessels with refined lines and superb finishes, a testament to the high standards maintained by its skilled craftsmen. While primarily a builder of wooden boats, the firm demonstrated adaptability by embracing fiberglass for models like the Morgan-Giles 30, signaling a willingness to integrate new materials while upholding its renowned construction ethos. Some boats were built by Somerset Plastics in later years, and there were also instances of home completions, with the original Morgan-Giles built boats generally considered of the highest quality. There is no information found regarding significant variations in rig or hull (e.g., MkI vs. MkII) during the production run, beyond the initial wooden prototype and the subsequent fiberglass production.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Morgan-Giles 30 is characterized by its long keel hull type and masthead sloop rig, contributing to its reputation as a stable and forgiving sailboat. Her sail area to displacement ratio, calculated at approximately 156.5, suggests she is a moderate performer, capable of good speed in a breeze but not intended as a light-air racer. With a high ballast to displacement ratio of 47.4%, the Morgan-Giles 30 is notably stiff and stable, exhibiting excellent righting capability if heeled significantly. This substantial stability makes her a confident performer in a seaway. Her displacement to length ratio, a high 371.7, confirms her classification as a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing comfort and seaworthiness over raw speed.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Morgan-Giles 30 as an "efficient and easy to handle" vessel. While acknowledged as a heavy sailboat that may be slightly underpowered in very light conditions, her "excellent all-weather performance" is a consistent praise point. She is known for her balanced helm, though some anecdotal reports suggest that ensuring the correct tiller length and properly balanced sails are crucial for optimal handling. Overall, her sailing characteristics are well-suited for coastal cruising, providing a secure and comfortable motion.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Morgan-Giles 30 is designed with practicality and comfort in mind for coastal cruising. While specific headroom figures are not widely detailed, the layout typically accommodates four berths, often configured as two single berths and one double berth. Historical descriptions and reviews indicate a traditional interior arrangement. Some layouts feature a dinette seating area to port, complemented by a functional galley. Standard accommodations generally include a guest cabin and a head, providing essential amenities for overnight or extended stays aboard.

Information on the general finish quality and specific materials points to the original Morgan-Giles built boats having superior craftsmanship and use of materials, typical of the builder's reputation for elegant and high-quality construction. Later boats, particularly those with home completions or from other builders, could vary in finish. Storage solutions are generally adequate for a boat of her size, designed to support cruising needs. While detailed ventilation information is sparse, typical designs of the era would rely on deck hatches and portlights for airflow.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Morgan-Giles 30 consistently commend its solid construction and remarkable all-weather performance, affirming its reliability as a cruiser. The boat's inherent stability and stiffness are frequently highlighted as significant strengths, instilling confidence in various sea states. Many owners appreciate the boat's classic lines and enduring appeal, a testament to Kenneth Collyer's original design.

However, common maintenance considerations and potential weaknesses have been noted by owners. Recurring issues include blisters on the fiberglass hull and problems with corroding mast steps, which are typical concerns for older fiberglass vessels. Some owners have also reported issues with the original deck fittings developing leaks, necessitating re-bedding. While generally praised, the original engine, often a 10hp Albin gasoline engine, may require attention or upgrading in older models. Despite these common age-related challenges, a dedicated community of owners often shares information and solutions through online forums, underscoring the enduring appeal and maintainability of the Morgan-Giles 30.