Westerly 30 Information, Review, Specs

The Westerly 30 emerged from Westerly Marine Ltd., a company founded in March 1963 by Commander Denys A. Rayner, the boat's designer, and Hilary Scott. Rayner, an established yacht designer, was instrumental in Westerly's early success, focusing on GRP (glass reinforced plastic) construction from the outset. The builder's ethos during the 1960s was characterized by a move towards modern factory production and a focus on durable, family-friendly cruising sailboats, which earned them a strong reputation in the UK leisure yachting industry.

The design philosophy behind the Westerly 30 was ambitious: to integrate "the spirit of a racer, the power of a motor boat, and the stability and comfort of a family cruiser." This quest for versatility resulted in a "fast twin-keel" vessel, a popular choice for navigating tidal waters and allowing the boat to be beached. While specific variations like MkI or MkII are not widely documented for the Westerly 30, Westerly did occasionally tweak interior layouts in other models during production runs, suggesting potential minor refinements over its brief production period.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly 30's design brief prioritized a balanced blend of speed and comfort, reflected in its calculated performance ratios. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.79, the Westerly 30 offers respectable performance, capable of moving well in a breeze without being a dedicated light-air racer. Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/Disp) of 0.44 indicates a highly stable and stiff boat, well-equipped to stand up to significant wind and provide a comfortable motion in a seaway. Furthermore, a Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 184.27 suggests a moderately displaced hull for its length, enabling a reasonable turn of speed for a cruiser of its size and era, avoiding the sluggishness sometimes associated with heavier designs.

Despite its twin keel configuration, which inherently introduces more wetted surface area than a single keel, the Westerly 30 was still considered a capable sailing boat, with its design aiming for both speed and stability. Owners often find Westerly yachts of this period to offer solid handling characteristics, providing a secure and predictable feel under sail. The twin keels were particularly valued for their ability to allow the boat to take the ground in tidal areas, a significant advantage for many European sailors.

Accommodations and Layout

Designed for family cruising, the interior of the Westerly 30 offers practical accommodations with notable headroom in the main cabin. The layout typically includes a functional galley, providing essential amenities for extended trips. Sleeping arrangements often feature two quarter berths, contributing to its family-friendly capacity.

While detailed specifications on interior materials are not universally standardized for this model, Westerly Yachts of this era were known for their robust, if sometimes utilitarian, fiberglass construction with practical finishes. The design incorporates thoughtful elements like a large, offset forehatch, which not only provides easy access to the foredeck but also allows for convenient handling of sails. Owners often report that Westerly boats, including models of similar length, tend to offer a sense of space that can feel larger than their actual dimensions suggest.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Westerly yachts, including the Westerly 30, frequently praise their solid construction and seaworthiness. Many appreciate the brand's reputation for building durable boats capable of handling various conditions with confidence. The Westerly Owners' Association serves as a valuable resource and a testament to the enduring appeal and community surrounding these vessels. While specific common issues for the Westerly 30 are not widely highlighted, general maintenance points for boats of this vintage often include the need to address original deck fittings to prevent leaks or updating older systems. Overall, the Westerly 30 is regarded by many as a reliable and comfortable cruiser, embodying the practical and robust qualities for which Westerly Marine Ltd. became known.