Yamaha 30-1 Information, Review, Specs

The genesis of the Yamaha 30-1 in 1978 marked a significant point in Yamaha's marine history, as the company was actively exporting its sailboats to the United States. The design is attributed to the Yamaha Design Group, but it draws heavily on the acclaimed SCAMPI MKIII, designed by the renowned Swedish naval architect Peter Norlin. Norlin's Scampi design, which notably won the Half Ton World Cup in 1971, was his inaugural yacht design, celebrated for its lively and seaworthy characteristics. Yamaha, known for its pioneering adoption and mastery of Fiber Reinforced Plastic (FRP) technology, applied its expertise to the 30-1, allowing for hulls built with remarkable accuracy. This commitment to precision manufacturing underpinned Yamaha's reputation for quality in its boat construction during this period. A tall rig version of the Yamaha 30-1 was also made available, offering variations for different sailing preferences.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Yamaha 30-1, with a length overall of just under 30 feet and a waterline length of 23.58 feet, presents a moderate displacement profile. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 259.16 suggests it is a moderately heavy cruiser-racer, capable of a comfortable motion through the water while still offering good performance. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.05 indicates a balanced sail plan, suggesting moderate performance in lighter winds but also good handling and stability as the wind increases. Owners generally describe the Yamaha 30-1 as a boat that "sails well" and is "very well built—over built really." Its heritage, linked to the "lively and seaworthy" Scampi design, implies a responsive and capable handling experience in various sea states. However, one owner noted that the standard 12 horsepower Yanmar YSM12 engine might struggle to push the boat effectively against strong headwinds (15-20 knots), reducing motoring speed significantly and leading to a preference for sailing. Information regarding the specific ballast weight for the Yamaha 30-1 is not consistently available in the provided data or search results, precluding a precise Ballast to Displacement ratio calculation.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific details on the maximum headroom are not available, the interior of the Yamaha 30-1 is generally praised for having a "clever and modern cabin layout for its time." Typical for sailboats of its size and era, the layout would likely feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees and a table, a compact galley, and a head compartment. References to the engine being located in the bow in some models and the V-berth being a suitable location for a holding tank offer glimpses into its traditional interior arrangement. Owner observations suggest a practical interior, possibly with durable finishes and adequate storage for a boat designed for both cruising and racing. The emphasis on solid construction extends to the interior, implying a well-finished and robust living space, though exact materials like wood trim versus fiberglass are not consistently detailed in available information.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Yamaha 30-1 frequently commend its robust construction, often describing it as "over built." This reputation for solidness contributes to its appeal as a reliable vessel for cruising, with one owner considering it a "fast family cruiser" for areas like the Pacific Northwest. While specific common problems are not widely documented, a general observation from one owner about maintaining dryness below deck suggested that a fitted cover for the coachhouse roof and windows effectively addresses potential leaks, a common maintenance item for many sailboats. The auxiliary engine, typically a Yanmar YSM12 diesel, is generally considered reliable, though its 12 horsepower can be underpowered when facing significant headwinds, leading some owners to prefer sailing conditions whenever possible. Overall, the sentiment among owners points to a durable, capable, and enjoyable sailboat that has stood the test of time.