The Wavelength 30 is a distinctive American sailboat designed by Paul Lindenberg and built by the renowned W.D. Schock Corporation. Introduced in 1980 and produced until 1981, this compact monohull was conceived as a versatile racer-cruiser, aiming to strike a balance between spirited sailing performance and practical comfort for its size. With only 10 units ever built, the Wavelength 30 represents a niche but significant offering from a builder celebrated for its quality fiberglass yachts.
Wavelength 30 Information, Review, Specs
- Make
- Model
- Number Built
- 10
- Production Year(s)
- 1980 - 1981
The creation of the Wavelength 30 emerged from the design board of Paul Lindenberg in 1980, with production handled by W.D. Schock Corporation. Lindenberg, known for designing lightweight racers like the similar Lindenberg 30, imbued the Wavelength 30 with a clear intent: to offer both competitive racing capabilities and suitable amenities for cruising. W.D. Schock, founded by William "Bill" D. Schock in 1958, had by this era established itself as a leading West Coast builder specializing in robust fiberglass sailboats, a reputation built on crafting accessible yet competitive vessels. Their manufacturing ethos emphasized forward-thinking design and craftsmanship, making them a fitting builder for Lindenberg's performance-oriented vision. During its short production run, the Wavelength 30 was consistently built to this design, with no significant variations such as MkI or MkII iterations noted.
Sailing Performance and Handling
The Wavelength 30's design ratios underscore its identity as a performance-oriented vessel. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 19.3, she is well-equipped for engaging performance, particularly excelling in lighter air conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 0.44 indicates a stiff and stable boat, suggesting a good ability to stand up to a breeze and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (Disp/L) ratio of approximately 163 classifies her as a lighter, more performance-focused boat compared to heavier, more traditional cruisers. These figures, combined with her fin keel and spade rudder, suggest a responsive and agile handling experience on the water, befitting her racer-cruiser designation. Her theoretical hull speed is calculated at 6.93 knots.
Accommodations and Layout
While specific detailed interior layouts for the Wavelength 30 are not widely documented, insights into similar performance-oriented designs of its era, particularly from builders focused on racing, suggest a functional and straightforward interior. Boats of this size and purpose typically feature a V-berth forward, a compact head, and a salon with settees that may double as berths, often complemented by a small galley area. Given W.D. Schock's reputation for robust fiberglass construction, the interior finish would likely have favored durable, practical materials, possibly with some wood trim to enhance the aesthetic. Storage solutions would be designed to be efficient for both racing gear and cruising necessities, while ventilation would be provided through deck hatches and portlights.
Measurements
Construction & Hull
- Construction Material
- Fiberglass (Solid)
- Hull Type
- Monohull Sailboat
- Keel Type
- Fin
- Rudder
- 1x Spade
- Ballast
- 3100 lbs
- Displacement
- 7000 lbs
- Water Capacity
- -
- Fuel Capacity
- -
Engine
- Engine Make
- BMW
- Engine Model
- —
- Engine Type
- —
- Engine HP
- —
- Engine Count
- 1
- Drive Type
- —
- Fuel Type
- Diesel
Rig & Sails
- Rig Type
- Masthead Sloop
- P (Main Luff)
- 36 ft
- E (Main Foot)
- 11 ft
- I (Foretriangle Height)
- 41 ft
- J (Foretriangle Base)
- 12 ft
- Forestay Length (est)
- 42.72 ft
- Main Sail Area
- 198 sqft
- Foretriangle Sail Area
- 246 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Reported)
- 444 sqft
- Total Sail Area (Calc)
- 444 sqft
Dimensions
- LOA
- 29.95 ft
- LWL
- 26.75 ft
- Beam
- 10 ft
- Draft
- 5.25 ft
- Max Headroom
- -
- Air Draft
- -
Calculations
- Hull Speed
- 6.93 kn
- Pounds per Inch Immersion
- 955.81