PT-30-2 (Plas Trend 30-2) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The PT-30-2 emerged from the drawing board of Britton Chance Jr., a designer celebrated for his fast and efficient hull forms. Its production run from 1970 to 1973 coincided with Plastrend's operational period, during which the company, founded by passionate sailor Andy Green, focused on creating fast and tough sailing vessels using advanced composite materials. This ethos of durable, high-performance construction was a hallmark of Plastrend's designs.

The PT-30-2 model is thought to be a refinement of an earlier PT-30, with the primary difference being a deeper rudder designed to enhance handling. This iteration, sometimes referred to as the PT-30 Mk II, reflects a continuous effort to improve the sailing characteristics of the design. The hull features a fin keel coupled with a skeg-hung rudder, a common configuration for performance cruisers of its era, balancing efficiency with directional stability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Plas Trend PT-30-2 presents as a moderately weighted sailboat with commendable performance capabilities. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 277, she falls into the medium-heavy displacement category, suggesting a solid motion through the water. This is complemented by an impressive Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 0.53, indicating a very stiff and stable vessel, well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and maintain its composure in various sea states. Owners and reviewers often describe the PT-30-2 as very stable and stiff, possessing good righting capabilities.

Its Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of 16.17 suggests moderate light-air performance, meaning she might require a bit more breeze to get moving compared to lighter, more dedicated racers, but will likely handle stronger winds with grace. The calculated hull speed for the PT-30-2 is 6.73 knots, reflecting its efficient hull design for its size. Overall, the PT-30-2 is best suited as a coastal cruiser, offering a balance of performance and stability that makes for enjoyable and secure sailing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Plas Trend PT-30-2 are not extensively documented in public records, reviews indicate the boat typically features one cabin and a galley. Given its length overall of 30 feet, the interior space would likely accommodate basic cruising amenities for a small crew or family. Common arrangements for boats of this size from the early 1970s would usually include a V-berth forward, a compact head, a salon area with settees that convert to berths, and a small galley, often with a sink and a two-burner stove. The construction quality, typical of Plastrend, would likely feature durable fiberglass finishes, possibly complemented by wood trim to add warmth to the interior.

Owner's Perspectives

Owner feedback on the Plas Trend PT-30-2 is not widely available in aggregated forms. However, one common concern occasionally mentioned regarding Plastrend boats, generally, involved the potential for delamination and issues with "starved 'glass" in older models, though this comment was in reference to Solings and not specifically the PT-30-2. While definitive common problems specific to the PT-30-2 are not readily synthesized from available information, owners interested in vessels of this vintage often prioritize surveying for general issues related to aging fiberglass boats. The PT-30-2's solid construction and sailing characteristics, however, tend to be appreciated by those who value its stability and performance for coastal cruising.