Nicholson 30 Mk I Sailboats for Sale

Drawing Diagram

Builder drawing

Hull Type

Monohull · fin

Rig

Masthead Sloop

LOA

29' · 8.84 m

Disp.

7,280 lbs · 3,302 kg

First year

1972

The Nicholson 30 Mk I emerged in 1971 as a pivotal design for the Camper & Nicholsons yard, representing their foray into the highly competitive Half Ton class of the International Offshore Rule (IOR) era. Designed by Raymond Wall, who was then the chief designer for the firm, the 30 Mk I was intended to bridge the gap between a purebred racing machine and a comfortable coastal cruiser. While many of its contemporaries were being built with thin, lightweight laminates for speed, Camper & Nicholsons maintained their reputation for robust construction, resulting in a yacht that was significantly more durable—and heavier—than most dedicated IOR racers of the time. This build quality has allowed the 30 Mk I to age more gracefully than many of its 1970s peers, making it a soughtafter classic for sailors who value pedigree and structural integrity.