Ericson 30+ Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ericson 30+ is widely regarded for its "sweet-sailing" characteristics, a hallmark of Bruce King’s naval architecture. With a displacement-to-length ratio that places it firmly in the performance-cruiser category, the boat tracks well and remains remarkably balanced even as the breeze freshens. The hull’s moderate beam and relatively deep fin keel (a shoal draft version was also produced) allow for competitive upwind performance, typically carrying a PHRF rating in the 160 to 170 range.

Under sail, the boat feels stiff and responsive, largely due to the TAFG system which minimizes hull flexing. Many owners note that the 30+ handles predictably under a variety of sail configurations; it is not a boat that "loads up" on the tiller or wheel excessively when over-canvassed. While the sail area-to-displacement ratio is conservative enough for short-handed cruising, the boat rewards an active trimmer. According to technical data hosted by the Ericson Yachts Information Exchange, the vessel’s ballast ratio of roughly 40% ensures a high degree of stability, making it a "sea-kindly" platform that avoids the jarring motion often found in lighter, more modern flat-bottomed designs.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "Plus" designation in this model’s name signifies a significant upgrade in interior volume and amenities compared to the 1970s-era Ericson 30. The layout is a classic example of early 1980s offshore design, featuring a functional U-shaped galley to port and a dedicated navigation station to starboard. The use of extensive teak joinery and a teak-and-holly sole provides a warm, traditional atmosphere that is often missing from contemporary production boats.

Accommodations include a comfortable V-berth forward, separated from the main salon by a full-width head and hanging locker. The main cabin utilizes a settee to starboard and a L-shaped dinette to port, which can often be converted into an additional double berth. A notable variation in the 30+ line is the quarter berth arrangement; most hulls feature a generous double quarter berth tucked behind the nav station, though some earlier versions may show slight modifications in cabinetry. Headroom is generous for a 30-foot vessel, consistently measuring around 6'2", which contributes to the open feel of the cabin.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

While the Ericson 30+ is a robustly built vessel, prospective buyers should focus on several age-related areas during a pre-purchase survey.

• TAFG Grid Integrity: While the Tri-Axial Force Grid is a major strength, it is critical to inspect the bonding of the grid to the hull. In boats that have suffered a hard grounding, the grid can occasionally separate or "pop" its tabbing, which requires professional fiberglass repair to restore structural stiffness.
• Deck Coring: Like most boats of this era, the 30+ uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step is common. Soft spots in the cockpit sole or around the forward hatch are high-signal indicators of core rot.
• Chainplate Leaks: The stainless steel chainplates pass through the deck and are bolted to the TAFG or reinforced bulkheads. If the deck seals have not been regularly maintained, water can migrate down the plates, potentially leading to crevice corrosion or bulkhead rot.
• Rudder Bearings: Owners frequently report play in the rudder post. On wheel-steered models, the radial drive and steering cables should also be checked for "meat hooks" or fraying, as many of these components are reaching the end of their service life.

Community & Resources

The Ericson 30+ benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the sailing world. The EricsonYachts.org website serves as a primary technical repository, offering digitized copies of original brochures, wiring diagrams, and a highly active forum where owners share DIY solutions for model-specific repairs. Because many Ericson yachts share components (such as the Universal diesel engines and Kenyon masts), the wealth of knowledge spans the entire Ericson line, from the smaller 25+ to the larger 38.

The Verdict

The Ericson 30+ remains a top-tier choice for sailors who prioritize build quality and aesthetic appeal over the "condo-on-the-water" volume of modern cruisers. It is a boat that rewards the sailor with its performance while providing a safe, comfortable interior for coastal exploration.

Pros:

• Exceptional Build Quality: The TAFG system provides a rigid, durable hull that has stood the test of time.
• Classic Aesthetics: Bruce King's designs are timeless, avoiding the dated looks of many 1980s competitors.
• Balanced Handling: Performs well in both light and heavy air, making it a versatile coastal cruiser.

Cons:

• Aging Systems: Most examples will require updates to original Universal engines and electrical panels.
• Balsa Core Vulnerability: Requires diligent maintenance of deck hardware to prevent expensive core repairs.
• Tight Engine Access: Like many 30-footers, the engine compartment can be difficult to access for major maintenance.