Alberg 30 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Alberg 30 began in late 1961 when Kurt Hansen, the owner of Whitby Boat Works, commissioned Carl Alberg to design a 30-foot sailboat. Production commenced in 1962 and continued for an impressive 25 years, concluding in 1987, with over 700 units built. Carl Alberg, known for his significant influence in early fiberglass boat design, brought his philosophy of elegant lines, moderate displacement, and excellent performance to the Alberg 30. Whitby Boat Works, under the Hansens, had a reputation for building solid, well-regarded fiberglass sailboats that prioritized seaworthiness and comfort, a ethos perfectly aligned with Alberg's design for this model.

Throughout its long production run, the Alberg 30 saw some notable variations. Earlier versions featured a laminated wood mast brace and lacked a molded fiberglass liner. Their decks were cored with masonite and drained directly overboard under the toe rail. These boats also had an upright icebox accessible from both the cabin and the cockpit. Later models incorporated an aluminum mast brace enclosed within a molded fiberglass liner. Their decks transitioned to balsa coring and drained through hoses to the cockpit scupper drains. Additionally, a molded fiberglass pan formed the cabin sole and furniture supports, and the icebox became top-loading. A few transition boats also exhibit characteristics of both early and later designs. Various auxiliary engines were fitted during its production, including the Gray Marine Gas 22hp, Universal Atomic 4 Gas 30hp, and later, Bukh (single cyl) Diesel 12hp and Volvo Penta MD7A and 2002 Diesel engines [15,.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Alberg 30 is renowned for its forgiving sailing characteristics and comfortable motion, particularly in a seaway. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 15.15, the Alberg 30 offers moderate performance, meaning it's not a pure light-air speedster but will perform capably in a range of conditions. Its ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.37 indicates decent stability, allowing it to stand up well to a blow without excessive heeling. The high displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 395 confirms its identity as a heavy, traditional cruiser, contributing to its comfortable ride and robust feel at sea. Owners frequently describe the boat as easy to handle and well-balanced, especially with a main and working jib. Its full keel design, while contributing to its stability and tracking, means it won't spin on a dime, but rather holds a course with authority.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its classic narrow beam by modern standards, the Alberg 30 provides a functional and often cozy interior that has served countless cruisers. A typical layout features generous berths to port and starboard in the main salon, with a comfortable headroom of six feet, three inches. Forward of the main salon, the head is usually positioned to one side, often with a hanging locker opposite. While interior details can vary, especially between earlier and later models, the finish is generally described as modest but solid. Materials often include wood trim, contributing to a warm, traditional aesthetic. Storage is typically adequate for coastal cruising, though some owners might find it limited for extended offshore voyages. Ventilation, a crucial aspect of comfort, depends on the number and placement of hatches and portlights, which varied slightly with production years.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently praise the Alberg 30 for its rugged construction, seaworthy design, and admirable sailing qualities. Many appreciate its classic styling and the sense of security it provides in adverse conditions. The boat's fundamental solidity and lack of significant structural problems, beyond normal wear for a vintage vessel, are frequently highlighted. It is often cited as an excellent value on the used market, making capable cruising accessible.

However, some owners note that the interior can feel "incredibly small by modern standards" due to its narrow beam. Another recurring issue mentioned by owners, particularly on older models, is the attachment of the forward lower chainplates, which can be inadequately supported belowdecks. The original deck fittings on some models may also require re-bedding over time to prevent leaks. Despite these common considerations, the Alberg 30 maintains a strong and active owner community, who value its enduring qualities as a reliable and capable cruising sailboat.