Soverel 30 (MK Ii-Iii) Information, Review, Specs

Soverel Marine, under the guidance of Bill Soverel, a celebrated US Navy pilot and successful racer, established itself by producing yachts known for speed and quality. The company's unique approach involved offering semi-customization on many of its early designs, allowing buyers to influence everything from hull layup materials to interior configurations and rigging details. This bespoke ethos meant that over half of their vessels were customized, underscoring a commitment to meeting individual client needs and preferences and ensuring a distinctive character for each boat.

History and Design

The Soverel 30 (MK II-III) began its production run in 1974, succeeding the earlier 1969 Soverel 30. This model is particularly noteworthy as it saw collaborative design input from both Bill Soverel, the founder, and his son Mark Soverel, who would go on to become a renowned raceboat designer in his own right. The Soverel family's deep-rooted passion for racing heavily influenced the design philosophy of Soverel Marine, aiming to produce boats that excelled in performance while maintaining a high standard of construction.

The "MK II-III" designation indicates a refinement over the original Soverel 30, incorporating updates to enhance its capabilities. Notably, the MKIII version featured a larger rudder with a skeg, likely intended to improve handling and directional stability, particularly in challenging conditions. The builder's commitment to quality during this era was evident in their willingness to offer choices in construction materials, such as fiberglass with foam cores for both the hull and deck. This flexibility allowed for optimization based on a buyer's specific performance or cruising intentions.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Soverel 30 (MK II-III) was engineered to deliver an engaging sailing experience. With a total sail area of 606 sq ft and a displacement of 9500 lbs, the boat exhibits a Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 21.63. This relatively high ratio suggests that the Soverel 30 (MK II-III) is well-powered and likely performs admirably in light to moderate winds, offering lively acceleration and good speed potential.

Its ballast-to-displacement ratio of about 35.7% (3400 lbs of lead ballast in a 9500 lb boat) indicates a moderate degree of stiffness and stability. While not as high as some dedicated offshore cruisers, this ratio provides a good balance, allowing the boat to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind and maintain a comfortable motion without being overly tender. The displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at approximately 241.39, places the Soverel 30 (MK II-III) firmly in the medium-light displacement category. This characteristic contributes to its agility and performance-oriented nature, distinguishing it from heavier, more traditional cruisers.

Owners consistently praise the Soverel 30 (MK III) for its impressive speed and excellent handling across various points of sail. The boat is equipped with a cutter rig, which is often favored for offshore sailing due to its ability to break the total sail area into smaller, more manageable units, enhancing control in heavier weather. The centerboard keel design, allowing for a variable draft from 3.5 to 9.5 feet, offers versatility, enabling access to shallower anchorages while providing deeper draft for enhanced upwind performance. The larger rudder with a skeg on the MKIII further improved its control and tracking capabilities.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed interior specifications for the Soverel 30 (MK II-III) are not extensively documented in available data, its design as a performance cruiser implies a functional and comfortable layout for its size. Boats of this era and type typically feature a conventional interior arrangement to maximize usability within a 30-foot hull.

Commonly, the interior would include a V-berth forward, serving as the primary sleeping cabin. A head compartment would typically be located between the V-berth and the salon. The main salon usually features settees that can double as berths, often with a folding table in the center. A compact galley, offering essential amenities like a sink, stovetop, and icebox, would be situated to one side, with a navigation station opposite. The emphasis on semi-customization by Soverel Marine means that individual boats may vary significantly in their interior finishes and exact configurations, reflecting the original owner's preferences. Owners have noted that the boat is designed for comfortable living, suggesting a well-thought-out use of space for cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Soverel 30 (MK III) generally express high satisfaction with their vessels, often highlighting their exceptional sailing performance and robust build quality. Many describe the boat as "absolutely great," commending its speed and ability to perform well on all points of sail. The classic appeal of Soverel designs, which combined speed potential with well-conceived interiors, remains a strong draw for enthusiasts.

However, as with any classic yacht, potential owners should be mindful of common maintenance items. Some owners have pointed out that due to the age of these vessels, it's crucial to inspect for potential issues such as the need for new sails or rigging, as these can significantly impact the overall cost of ownership. The original deck fittings on boats of this vintage might also be prone to leaks, often requiring re-bedding to ensure watertight integrity. Despite these typical considerations for older boats, the consensus among owners is that the Soverel 30 (MK II-III) offers a rewarding sailing experience, justifying the investment for those who appreciate its distinctive performance characteristics and build quality.