Swiftsure 30 (Seafarer) Information, Review, Specs

The Seafarer Swiftsure 30 commenced production in 1978, emerging during a prolific period for Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts. At this time, the builder had consolidated its operations in Huntington, New York, and was heavily collaborating with McCurdy & Rhodes, who designed the majority of their models throughout the 1970s. Seafarer's general design ethos during this era often leaned towards "racing-inspired hull designs," aiming to blend performance with cruising comfort. The Swiftsure 30 is one of three distinct 30-foot models produced by Seafarer, with the McCurdy & Rhodes designed Swiftsure being the most common. While the does not specify variations, search results indicate the possibility of a "tall rig" option, which would feature slightly increased mast dimensions (I: 39.00' and P: 33.50') for enhanced sail area. Seafarer also uniquely offered many of their models, including potentially the Swiftsure 30, in kit form, allowing owners to complete their yachts themselves.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seafarer Swiftsure 30 offers a balanced and capable sailing experience. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 16.1, she is categorized as a balanced cruiser, suggesting good all-around performance without being overly sensitive in light airs or overpowered in stronger conditions. Her high Ballast to Displacement ratio of nearly 46% indicates a stiff and stable platform, capable of standing up to a breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. Owners have frequently praised the boat for its stability. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of around 200 places her on the lighter side for a cruising vessel, contributing to her described "reasonably fast" nature and good overall performance. The Swiftsure 30 is also noted for being manageable enough to be single-handed, offering a responsive and well-behaved experience on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its approximately 30-foot length overall, the Seafarer Swiftsure 30 is known for its "beautiful and spacious interior," which often features ample teak trim, contributing to a classic and warm ambiance. Owners report a comfortable cabin headroom of around 6 feet, 2 inches, enhancing the sense of space below deck. While specific layouts can vary, typical arrangements for boats of this size often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley area equipped with features such as a two-burner alcohol stove, and a head compartment. The design prioritizes maximizing usable interior volume, making the Swiftsure 30 suitable for family cruising with sufficient room for comfort and storage.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seafarer Swiftsure 30 generally express strong satisfaction with their vessels, often describing them with affection. Common praise centers on the boat's solid construction, a hallmark of Seafarer Yachts, which instills confidence in its durability and seaworthiness. The boat's blend of stability and good sailing performance is frequently highlighted as a significant strength, making it enjoyable for both day sailing and longer cruises. Many appreciate the well-thought-out interior layout, finding it spacious and comfortable for its size. While specific widespread "common problems" are not broadly documented for this particular model, the general reputation among Seafarer owners points to classic lines, robust build quality, and the pedigree of their designers as enduring appeals of these yachts.