Yankee 30 Mk II 98+ Information, Review, Specs

The Yankee 30 Mk II emerges from a period (1970-1975) when its builder, Yankee Yachts Inc., under the leadership of John Schumaker, was known for prioritizing craftsmanship. The company, which operated for a decade from 1965, built vessels with a steadfast commitment to high standards, including one-piece, hand-laid-up fiberglass hulls for exceptional durability and structural integrity. The Yankee 30 model, specifically Sparkman & Stephens design #1999, was a cornerstone of this era, evolving from earlier models to incorporate fiberglass decks and aluminum masts, a transition from the wooden superstructures of Yankee Yachts' earliest offerings.

The Yankee 30 line saw several iterations, including the Mk I, Mk II, and Mk III, primarily differentiated by incrementally taller rigs and subtle changes to the interior layout. The Mk II, in particular, represents a refined version within this successful series, maintaining the core design philosophy of a well-balanced and seaworthy cruiser-racer.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Yankee 30 Mk II's design ratios provide insight into its sailing characteristics. With a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 16.32, it offers a moderate sail plan, suggesting a balanced performance profile that can perform adequately in light air but truly shine as the breeze builds. Its Ballast to Displacement ratio (Bal/D) of around 47.47% is notably high, indicating excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to more wind and maintain its sail plan without excessive heeling. This high ballast ratio places its righting moment higher than 82% of similar sailboat designs, contributing to its ability to resist heeling significantly.

The Displacement to Length ratio (D/L) of approximately 319.22 categorizes the Yankee 30 Mk II as a moderately heavy cruiser. This suggests a solid, comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability and strength over ultra-light performance. Owners generally concur that the Yankee 30 strikes a "happy medium between sprightly performance and comfort in a seaway," exhibiting good balance even when heeled in heavy seas. Its fin keel and skeg-hung rudder contribute to responsive handling and good directional stability. The boat is commonly described as seaworthy and capable of handling significant wind and large swells. Power is typically provided by a Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom data is not consistently available, the interior of the Yankee 30 Mk II is generally configured for comfortable cruising. Typical layouts usually feature a V-berth forward, a head, a salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley, and potentially quarter berths aft. Reviews and listings for Yankee 30s suggest a functional and well-appointed interior, often with a traditional feel, reflecting the build quality of Yankee Yachts. The emphasis is usually on solid construction and practical use of space, with good storage for extended trips. Owners often highlight the well-thought-out interior design for a boat of its size, though specific details like finish materials and ventilation can vary based on individual boat upkeep and owner modifications.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners frequently praise the Yankee 30 for its solid construction, seaworthiness, and comfortable motion offshore, often considering it a capable cruiser and even a budget-friendly offshore option. It has earned a reputation as a balanced boat, with some owners noting its ability to be steered by an autopilot even when heeled in heavy seas. The enduring quality attributed to Yankee Yachts' refusal to compromise on construction standards means these boats remain robust and desirable.

However, common issues noted by owners, particularly on earlier models, can include water intrusion into the deck core along the hull-deck joint. This often requires re-bedding of fittings or sealing to prevent further problems. Another point mentioned by owners, though less common, relates to the placement of the prop far forward from the rudder on some models, which could potentially impact maneuverability under power in tight quarters. Despite these potential maintenance items, the general consensus among owners points to the Yankee 30 Mk II as a well-designed, sturdy, and enjoyable sailboat for both coastal cruising and longer passages.