Ticon 30 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the Ticon 30 traces back to the Chrysler CY-30, a design by Halsey Herreshoff. In 1981, Ticon Yachts Ltd., under the leadership of David de Eyre, acquired the manufacturing rights to this design from Texas Marine Industries, where it was known as the TMI-30. Production of the Ticon 30 commenced that same year in Oakville, Ontario, Canada, with approximately 35 units built during the company's tenure. A notable design change introduced by Ticon Yachts was the option of more traditional Atkins & Hoyle opening ports, replacing the fixed Plexiglas windows found on earlier iterations.

By 1983, Ticon Yachts strategically shifted its production to Kelt Marine's facility in Aurora, Ontario. This move was significant, as Kelt Marine had a strong reputation for quality construction, a factor that is said to have improved the overall craftsmanship of the Ticon 30s produced during this later period. Production of the Ticon 30 continued until 1986. The model also saw variations, including a shoal keel version with a shallower draft of 3.92 feet, slightly increased displacement of 9,900 pounds, and more ballast at 4,550 pounds. Additionally, later models (1984-1986) were equipped with a Volvo Penta 18 hp diesel engine, a departure from the earlier Universal-Atomic 5411.

Halsey Herreshoff, a designer who continued his family's esteemed heritage in yacht design, focused on creating vessels that balanced performance with practicality. His approach for the Chrysler 30, and subsequently the Ticon 30, included a "spacy hull design," contributing to the boat's reputation for interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ticon 30, with its moderate displacement and well-proportioned rig, delivers a balanced sailing experience. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 15.4 indicates it is a capable, moderate-performance cruiser. While not designed as a dedicated light-air performer, it offers respectable speed for its class.

A key characteristic of the Ticon 30's performance is its impressive stability. With a Ballast to Displacement ratio of around 44.3%, the vessel is notably stiff and stable, capable of standing up to a good breeze and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway. This high ballast ratio contributes to a reassuring feel under sail. Its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 243.8 confirms its classification as a moderate-weight cruiser, striking a good balance between speed and seaworthiness for a 30-foot vessel. The Ticon 30 also features a fractional sloop rig, which generally offers easier sail handling and enhanced control over the mainsail.

Anecdotal reports suggest that the Ticon 30 handles well, providing a surprisingly comfortable ride for a boat of its size. Its generous 11-foot beam and relatively high topsides contribute to a sense of expansiveness and stability on the water.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ticon 30 is renowned for its surprising volume and comfort, making it feel considerably larger than its 30-foot length suggests. With a maximum headroom of 6.25 feet, the main cabin offers ample standing room, a significant advantage for a boat of this size.

Typical interior layouts of the Ticon 30, often shared with its Chrysler CY-30 and TMI-30 predecessors, generally feature a V-berth forward, followed by a marine head. The main salon typically includes opposing settees that can often convert into berths, with a central drop-leaf table. The galley is usually positioned to one side, offering a functional space for meal preparation. The general impression of roominess in the main cabin is enhanced by an unusually large main companionway hatch and an opening mid-hatch, along with several other opening ports (especially on Ticon-produced models with the Atkins & Hoyle option), which ensure good ventilation throughout the interior. While specific details on material finishes can vary, the overall design prioritizes practicality and comfort for extended cruising.