Hummingbird 30 Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Hummingbird 30 in 1978 continued the legacy of Peter Webster Ltd., a company that emerged in the mid-1960s at the forefront of the fiberglass revolution in boat building. Operating from Lymington, Hampshire, Peter Webster established his firm with a clear vision: to construct high-quality, durable sailing yachts using Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP). The builder was renowned for its meticulous craftsmanship and an "over-engineered" approach to fiberglass construction, ensuring their boats were robust and long-lasting, a philosophy that underpinned the production of the Hummingbird 30.

The design of the Hummingbird 30's hull can be attributed to David Thomas, a prolific British yacht designer known for his performance-oriented creations. The Elizabethan 30, from which the Hummingbird 30's hull is derived, was specifically designed for racing during an era when competitive sailing rules influenced yacht lines. This heritage instilled a "speedy hull design" into the Hummingbird 30, even as it was adapted for more cruising-focused use with its unique deck and coachroof. While details on specific production variations for the Hummingbird 30 are not extensively documented, its close relation to the Elizabethan 30 suggests a consistent build, reflecting Peter Webster Ltd.'s commitment to quality during their operational period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hummingbird 30 offers a compelling blend of performance and stability, inheriting the acclaimed hull form of the racing-designed Elizabethan 30. With a Ballast to Displacement ratio of approximately 0.50, she boasts exceptional stiffness and stability, indicating a boat that can stand up to significant wind and maintain her canvas well. This high ratio is indicative of a robustly built vessel capable of handling challenging conditions with confidence.

Her Displacement to Length ratio of around 231 places her in the moderate to heavy displacement category, suggesting a solid, capable cruiser rather than a light, skittish racer. Despite this, her Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 18.53 (based on a sail area of 436 sq ft), indicates good performance potential, especially in lighter winds, allowing her to move efficiently through the water. This combination results in a vessel described by owners and reviewers as "fast and very seaworthy" with "excellent handling". Anecdotal evidence suggests the Elizabethan 30, and by extension the Hummingbird 30, offers sailing performance and qualities similar to the well-regarded Contessa 32, with some owners even claiming to outpace them. The yacht's keel type is a fin keel with a spade rudder, contributing to its responsive handling.

Accommodations and Layout

While the Hummingbird 30 shares the robust hull of the Elizabethan 30, its distinct deck and larger coachroof were designed to enhance internal volume and comfort, making it a more dedicated cruiser. Below deck, the accommodations are described as comfortable, though potentially smaller than those found in more modern 30-footers. The interior layout typically features a classic arrangement designed for functional cruising.

Common layouts often include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, and a galley area. Some accounts indicate a "moulded interior," suggesting a significant use of fiberglass liners for ease of cleaning and maintenance. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the larger coachroof compared to its Elizabethan counterpart implies an effort to maximize vertical space. Owners have found the interior suitable for extended stays, with one planning to live aboard for two months a year. The general finish quality, consistent with Peter Webster Ltd.'s ethos, would likely involve durable materials, offering a practical and seaworthy living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hummingbird 30, and its closely related Elizabethan 30, frequently praise these vessels for their solid construction and seaworthy characteristics. Many describe them as "very sea kindly boats," instilling confidence even in challenging conditions. The sailing performance, particularly their ability to handle well and maintain speed, is a recurring positive theme. The robust build quality, a hallmark of Peter Webster Ltd., is often highlighted, contributing to their enduring appeal and high survival rate on the used boat market.

While generally well-regarded, specific common weaknesses or maintenance issues are less frequently cited than their strengths. However, one owner noted significant work required to strengthen the hull around the top of the keel on a particular Hummingbird, suggesting this could be an area to inspect on older models. Owners also appreciate the active and supportive community facilitated by the Elizabethan Owners Association, which provides a valuable resource for maintenance advice and camaraderie. The consensus among owners is that the Hummingbird 30 represents a strong, reliable, and characterful sailing experience, especially for those who value traditional build quality and dependable performance.