Huzar 30 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Huzar 30 is built for speed in light-to-moderate conditions, featuring a displacement/length (D/L) ratio of approximately 235, which places it firmly in the category of moderate-performance cruisers. With a sail area-to-displacement (SA/D) ratio of 17.1 (increasing to nearly 20 when equipped with a 135% genoa), the boat is notably responsive and is often described as "over-rigged" for its size. This allows it to maintain momentum in light air where heavier traditional cruisers might stall.

The hull is typically equipped with a deep fin keel and a spade rudder, providing excellent maneuverability in tight marinas but requiring active attention at the helm when sailing off the wind. According to technical assessments from delivery professionals, such as those documented by Captain Radek, the boat handles sea trials well in coastal conditions, though its light-to-moderate ballast ratio of 31% means it becomes tender quickly as the wind rises. Early reefing—typically around 15–18 knots—is essential to maintain control and reduce weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 30-foot vessel, the Huzar 30 offers a surprisingly voluminous interior, often cited as feeling larger than its 9.1-meter length suggests. The layout typically features two private cabins—a V-berth forward and a large double cabin tucked under the cockpit on the port side. The salon uses the boat’s 3.22-meter beam effectively, providing a central folding table and settee berths that can accommodate extra guests, bringing the total sleeping capacity to six.

Materials usually include teak or mahogany veneers paired with white GRP headliners to brighten the space. The "Ocean Plus" variant often included higher-end amenities such as a Webasto heating system, pressurized hot water, and upgraded Mylar sails. The galley is functional for coastal hops, equipped with a two-burner stove and a refrigerator, though storage for long-range provisioning is limited by the fuel and water capacities (typically 70 liters and 100 liters, respectively).

The Huzar 30 has two notable siblings: the Huzar 28, a "gentleman’s racer" daysailer with a more aggressive rig and optional lifting keel, and the smaller Huzar 21. While the 28 focuses on regatta performance with an open transom, the 30 prioritizes the "hotel" aspects of cruising.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Huzar 30 gained significant notoriety in the UK yachting press, specifically in Yachting Monthly, following a feature article titled "When my Dream Boat Became a Nightmare." The article detailed the structural failure of a specific hull named Prospero, which suffered from extensive foam-core delamination. This editorial coverage remains a primary touchstone for buyers researching the model and led to a temporary decline in the brand’s resale value during the early 2010s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers must approach the Huzar 30 with a rigorous inspection protocol, specifically focusing on the construction methods used by EM Yachts.

• Hull Delamination: The most critical "gotcha" for this model is the bonding of the sandwich foam core. Buyers should commission a surveyor to perform comprehensive moisture testing and "tap testing" (percussion) across the topsides and deck. There have been documented cases where the core was not properly bonded to the fiberglass skins.
• Steering Linkage: Vessels equipped with wheel steering use a push-rod or cord system that is prone to wear. Professional delivery reports have noted the need to replace steering cords and tighten rudder bearings on older models to eliminate "slop" in the helm.
• Chain Plates: Inspect the U-bolt style chain plates for signs of stress or water ingress. Like many Polish-built boats of this era, the hardware bedding may require re-sealing to prevent core rot around the mounting points.
• Engine Access: While the 20hp Beta Marine or Yanmar engines are generally reliable, the engine box configuration can make reaching the raw water impeller and aft mounts difficult, leading to neglected maintenance in these areas.

The Verdict

The Huzar 30 is a stylish, fast-sailing cruiser that offers exceptional living space for its size, but its history requires a buyer who values due diligence over a bargain price.

Pros

• Exceptional light-air performance and acceleration.
• Modern, spacious interior layout that rivals 32-footers.
• Often found with high-quality deck hardware (Harken/Selden).

Cons

• History of manufacturing inconsistencies (foam core delamination).
• Light ballast makes the boat tender in heavy weather.
• Relatively small fuel and water tanks for "Ocean" branding.