Iroquois 30 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Iroquois 30 Mk II emerged from a period of dynamic multihull development in the late 1960s. Sailcraft Ltd., founded in 1967 by Reg White and Rodney March, quickly established itself as a leader in high-performance multihulls, known for their innovative designs and early adoption of fiberglass construction. The company's collaboration with Rod Macalpine-Downie was crucial in expanding their offerings from racing dinghies like the Olympic-class Tornado into the burgeoning cruising catamaran market. Macalpine-Downie, a self-taught but highly influential designer, aimed to create catamarans that were both efficient and enjoyable for cruising.

The Iroquois 30 Mk II, entering production in 1968, was an evolution of the earlier Iroquois 30. While specific details about the exact differences between the Mk I and Mk II can be nuanced, the Mk II refined the original concept, aiming for improved features and broader appeal. The Mk I was noted for its speed, often described as a "30 foot Tornado with a lid on," suggesting a strong performance orientation. The Mk II, while retaining the performance ethos, likely incorporated lessons learned from the initial production run to enhance its cruising capabilities. Over 230 units of the Iroquois 30 Mk II were built, solidifying its place in sailing history.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a catamaran, the Iroquois 30 Mk II distinguishes itself with a design focused on speed and stability compared to monohulls of similar length. With a length overall of 30 feet and a waterline length of 27 feet, combined with a relatively light displacement of 6,560 lbs, it offers performance competitive with larger vessels of its era. The boat features a fractional sloop rig, which generally makes tacking easier, a desirable trait for cruisers.

Equipped with twin centerboards, the Iroquois 30 Mk II offers a variable draft, allowing for a minimum draft of 1.25 feet with the boards up, ideal for shallow anchorages or beaching, and a maximum draft of 5.0 feet for improved upwind performance with the boards down. Its hull speed is calculated at approximately 6.96 knots. Owners generally find the Iroquois 30 Mk II to be reasonably fast and seaworthy, capable of inspiring both racing and blue-water cruising aspirations. Anecdotal reports suggest it handles well in various sea states, even demonstrating stability in rough conditions.

Accommodations and Layout

Given its catamaran hull type, the Iroquois 30 Mk II offers a surprising amount of interior volume for its length compared to monohulls. Descriptions and owner accounts indicate a layout designed for comfortable cruising, often featuring berths in each hull and a bridgedeck area. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the design generally aims to maximize usable space.

Typical interior arrangements include "honeymoon double berths" (likely referring to berths aft in each hull), and single berths forward. The galley is often situated in one hull, and a head (marine toilet) in the other, which is a common multihull arrangement that separates living functions. Owners have often undertaken significant interior renovations, adapting layouts for more storage or tankage, and upgrading amenities like cookers, suggesting a versatile interior that can be customized. The use of fiberglass for the hull and deck allows for a relatively low-maintenance finish, though interior joinery would have varied.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Iroquois 30 Mk II consistently praise its inherent stability and speed, which are hallmarks of the catamaran design. Many value its ability to explore shallow waters due to its twin centerboard configuration. The robust construction by Sailcraft Ltd. has contributed to the boat's enduring value and a dedicated owner base. The Iroquois has inspired some owners to undertake significant voyages or engage in racing, highlighting its versatility.

However, like any older vessel, some common issues or areas for attention have been noted by owners. The original deck fittings, if not properly maintained, might require re-bedding to prevent leaks. The internal systems, such as plumbing and electrical, are also likely to require updating on older models. Some discussions in online forums touch upon the safety aspects of older catamarans, with a few historical mentions of capsizing incidents, though this is often debated within owner communities and attributed to specific conditions or practices. Overall, the Iroquois 30 Mk II maintains a strong reputation for being a capable and enjoyable cruising platform, reflected by active owner associations that help preserve its legacy.