Aloha 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Aloha 30 emerged from Ouyang Boat Works' legacy of building robust and seaworthy sailing keelboats. Founded by Ti Ouyang in 1972, Ouyang Boat Works, based in Whitby, Ontario, Canada, was known for its commitment to durable fiberglass construction and comfortable living spaces. While the company's main operational period concluded in 1985, the Aloha 30's production years of 1986 to 1989 suggest a continuation of the brand or completion of existing molds, extending the builder's influence slightly beyond their primary manufacturing timeline. The Aloha 30 was notably designed by Ron Holland, a distinguished naval architect whose design philosophy often focused on creating performance-oriented vessels. Holland's portfolio includes a wide variety of design concepts, often with an emphasis on larger cruiser-racers, which aligns with the Aloha 30's dual-purpose nature. There is no widespread documentation of significant variations (like MkI or MkII) within the Aloha 30's relatively short production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Aloha 30, with its fractional sloop rig and fin keel with a spade rudder, is designed for an engaging sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.58 suggests good performance, especially in lighter air conditions, making it responsive and enjoyable in a range of wind strengths. The Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of roughly 43.5% indicates a stiff and stable boat, capable of standing up to more wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio contributes to the boat's ability to carry sail effectively and maintain its course. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 386.9, the Aloha 30 falls into the category of a heavier, more traditional cruiser, implying a solid feel and momentum through the water rather than the nimble, ultra-light characteristics of a pure racer. Owners have described the Aloha 30 as a "race boat with a cruising interior," suggesting it offers a good balance, making it capable of both competitive racing and comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Aloha 30 is designed to offer a comfortable cruising experience within its 30-foot length. Although specific maximum headroom details are not consistently available, the builder, Ouyang Boat Works, was known for integrating "personal touches" and comfortable living spaces into their designs. Generally, the Aloha 30 features a typical interior arrangement for a boat of its size, including a V-berth forward, a head, a salon area, a galley, and often quarter berths aft. However, some owners have noted that the interior layout can feel "miniaturized," a characteristic shared by some other Aloha designs. Details on the general finish quality and specific materials used for interior trim would typically reflect the solid construction and comfortable approach of Ouyang Boat Works from that era. The boat offers a water capacity of 30 gallons and a fuel capacity of 12 gallons for its Westerbeke diesel engine.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Aloha 30 often praise its robust construction and its ability to perform well under sail. The solid fiberglass hull, a hallmark of Ouyang Boat Works, contributes to its perceived durability and seaworthiness. The boat is generally considered a good option for cruising, with many owners appreciating its dual nature as both a racer and a cruiser. Common discussions among owners revolve around its sailing characteristics, with many finding it a capable boat for various sailing endeavors. While some find the cockpit coamings uncomfortable, the overall sentiment points to a well-built vessel that continues to provide enjoyable sailing years after its production. The existence of an active Aloha Owners Association underscores the strong community and enduring appeal of these Canadian-built cruisers.