Seawolf 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Seawolf 30 was introduced in 1980 by Seawolf Yachts Ltd., a company that embraced fiberglass as its primary construction material. David Feltham, who also designed the builder's well-known Seawolf 26, applied his design philosophy to the 30-foot model, aiming for well-designed and functional cruising yachts. During its production run, which saw around 500 hulls completed, a twin keel version was offered, providing a shallower draft of 3.75 feet compared to the standard fin keel's 5.5 feet, enhancing versatility for different cruising grounds and drying out capabilities.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a reported sail area of 410 square feet and a displacement of 7,900 pounds, the Seawolf 30 has a sail area-to-displacement ratio of approximately 16.3. This ratio suggests a balanced performance profile, indicating the boat is capable in a range of conditions without being overtly focused on light-air speed or heavy-air racing. Her ballast-to-displacement ratio of 43% is notably high, contributing to the boat's reputation for being very stable and stiff, capable of standing up to significant wind. The displacement-to-length ratio, around 289.8, categorizes the Seawolf 30 as a moderate-to-heavy displacement cruiser, implying a comfortable motion in a seaway, rather than a light, high-performance dinghy. Owners have described the Seawolf 30 as a "pocket rocket cruiser" and a "reasonably good performer," though some suggest it can be "quite a handful" in certain conditions, possibly referring to its responsiveness or the handling characteristics of the twin keel variant. The boat typically features a fin keel and spade rudder, contributing to its maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior dimensions like maximum headroom are not widely detailed, the Seawolf 30's design aimed for a "spacy hull design" for its era. The interior is commonly finished with teak, a popular material choice for boat interiors of this vintage, offering a classic nautical aesthetic. Reviews indicate the layout is designed to sleep six individuals across two cabins, a typical arrangement for a boat of this size aimed at family cruising. Expect a conventional layout including a V-berth forward, a main salon area, a galley, and a head, with considerations for storage and ventilation reflective of 1980s cruising boat design.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Seawolf 30 often appreciate its robust construction and its suitability as a functional cruising boat. Discussions in sailing forums indicate owners value its overall performance and stability for coastal cruising. As with many vessels of its age, potential owners often inquire about common maintenance issues or faults to inspect, suggesting a community engaged in preserving these classic fiberglass cruisers. The original engine could be a Lister Petter or, as seen in some models, a Volvo Penta MD7A, indicating potential variations in propulsion systems over the production run.