Seidelmann 30-T Information, Review, Specs

The Seidelmann 30-T began its production run in 1979, emerging from Seidelmann Yachts, a company founded by champion one-design sailor and sailmaker Bob Seidelmann. The builder's ethos, from its inception around 1977 until operations ceased in 1986, focused on leveraging fiberglass for efficient and cost-effective production of monohull sailboats. The 30-T, along with the similar Seidelmann 30, was conceived primarily as a cruiser, aiming to offer a harmonious blend of performance and comfort that would appeal to a broad spectrum of sailors. While details on design variations are limited, the Seidelmann 30-T was notably available with different draft options, including a shallow draft of 4.17 feet, indicating a commitment to versatility for various sailing grounds. Some discussions also hint at the 30-T being designed as a "maxi MORC boat," suggesting an aspiration towards competitive racing in certain configurations.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Seidelmann 30-T, with a length overall of just under 30 feet and a waterline length of 24 feet, presents a profile typical of the era's solid cruisers. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 15.87 suggests a moderate performer, indicating that while she may not excel in very light air, she is well-suited for comfortable cruising without being overly demanding. With a ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.409, the 30-T exhibits good initial stiffness and stability, enabling her to stand up to a fair amount of wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. The displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 284 indicates that the 30-T is a medium-heavy displacement vessel, consistent with a traditional cruiser known for its robust construction rather than extreme light-weight performance. Owners have described the Seidelmann 30-T as behaving very well, particularly in inland lake conditions, reinforcing its character as a dependable and well-mannered boat.

Accommodations and Layout

The Seidelmann 30-T offers a surprisingly spacious interior for a boat of its length, boasting a generous maximum headroom of 6.42 feet. While specific interior layouts can vary between individual boats due to owner modifications, typical arrangements often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and a private head compartment. Online discussions among owners suggest the design prioritizes an efficient layout. Details on the precise finish quality and materials require direct inspection, but Seidelmann Yachts generally utilized fiberglass for their construction, a hallmark of the era, which provided durability and consistency. Owners note practical aspects such as the fuel tank typically being located in the starboard cockpit locker and the water tank in the forward cabin. As with many boats of its vintage, some owners have reported common issues such as leaks around windows and jib car tracks, which are typical maintenance items for older vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

The Seidelmann 30-T continues to be enjoyed by a dedicated community of owners, who frequently share insights and experiences on online forums and dedicated owner websites. Owners consistently commend the Seidelmann lineage for its solid construction and enduring appeal, a testament to the durable fiberglass builds from the era. Many appreciate the boat's spacious interior, which contributes to its comfortable cruising capabilities. However, as with any vessel of its age, some common maintenance points arise. Recurring issues noted by owners include leaks around original deck fittings such as windows and jib car tracks, often requiring re-bedding. Some older comments on forums mention the potential for structural problems, but overall, the Seidelmann 30-T is generally regarded as a robust boat, albeit one that requires the typical maintenance attention expected of a classic fiberglass yacht.