Soverel 30 (1979) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Soverel 30 (1979) was produced by Soverel Marine between 1979 and 1987. Mark Soverel, a well-known American raceboat designer, imbued this model with his philosophy for high-performance yachts, earning his designs the moniker of "bored-out Corvettes" in the racing circuit. Soverel Marine, founded by Bill Soverel, had a clear vision to produce fast, quality sailboats, and was known for offering semi-customization, allowing buyers to modify elements like hull layup, interior configurations, and rigging. The 1979 Soverel 30 exemplified this approach, being available with a number of hull and rig configurations to suit individual racing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

As a fractional sloop with a fin keel and spade rudder, the Soverel 30 (1979) was engineered for responsive performance. Owners consistently praise its sailing characteristics, noting that it performs "well & fast on every point of sail". The fin keel design contributes to its maneuverability, though it may offer less directional stability compared to boats with longer keels. Despite its light displacement, the Soverel 30 (1979) is described as "very stable / stiff". Its fractional rig, a common feature in racing yachts of the era, simplifies tacking, benefiting both racers and cruisers. Anecdotal reports suggest it is notably quick, even outpacing a J-30 on the racecourse.

Accommodations and Layout

While the primary focus of the Soverel 30 (1979) was performance, its interior accommodations provided basic cruising comforts typical for a boat of its size and racing pedigree. Details regarding the exact interior layout, such as the number of berths, galley specifics, or head arrangement, are not extensively documented in general reviews. However, boats of this type typically featured a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that could serve as berths, and a compact galley and head. Given Soverel Marine's history of offering semi-customization, it is likely that interior finishes and layouts could vary from one boat to another, with options for different materials and configurations.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Soverel 30 (1979) often highlight its strong performance capabilities. It is frequently lauded as an "excellent club racer" and an "absolutely great boat". The boat's speed and handling in varied conditions are consistent points of praise among the sailing community. While specific common maintenance issues are not widely documented in available reviews, as with any vessel of its age, prospective owners would typically inspect elements like deck fittings and general structural integrity. The dedicated community around Soverel models, particularly older ones, indicates a strong appreciation for their robust construction and competitive edge.