Nicholson 30 Mk II Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Nicholson 30 Mk II is characterized by its high-aspect masthead rig and a relatively high ballast ratio, which provides the stiffness necessary to carry sail in a blow. Unlike the Mk I, which occasionally struggled with balance in heavy gusts, the Mk II benefited from subtle refinements in weight distribution and a revised rudder profile. On the water, the boat feels responsive and communicative through the tiller; it tracks well for a fin-keeled vessel but requires active trimming to maintain its "groove" when sailing upwind.

With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the performance-cruiser category, the Mk II excels in light-to-moderate air, a trait often noted in technical retrospectives by Yachting Monthly. The boat's IOR heritage is most evident when sailing downwind, where the pinched stern and wide beam amidships can lead to a rhythmic "rolling" if over-canvassed, a common quirk of 1970s racing designs. However, for the modern cruiser, this is easily managed by early reefing, which the boat handles with grace, maintaining its speed while significantly flattening the angle of heel.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nicholson 30 Mk II is a masterclass in maximizing limited volume without succumbing to the "cluttered" feel of many contemporary 30-footers. The layout typically features five berths: a double V-berth in the forward cabin, two settee berths in the saloon, and a generous quarter berth to port. The use of high-quality teak joinery and a functional, sea-going galley—complete with a deep sink and insulated cool box—reflects the manufacturer's refusal to compromise on offshore practicality.

Significant variations exist between the Mk I and Mk II interiors. The Mk II replaced the somewhat cramped linear galley of its predecessor with a more ergonomic "L-shaped" arrangement, improving the workflow for the cook while under sail. Headroom is respectable for a performance-oriented 30-foot boat, though those over six feet tall may find the forward cabin and heads compartment somewhat restrictive. While the Nicholson 31 was the dedicated cruiser of the family, the 30 Mk II remains a viable coastal voyager for a small family or couple, offering a level of interior finish that exceeds modern mass-produced equivalents.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Nicholson 30 Mk II with a focus on the structural elements typical of late-70s GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction. While Camper & Nicholsons hulls are famously robust, several "gotchas" have been documented by the owner community:

• Osmosis: Like many British-built yachts of this era, the hull is prone to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural, a moisture meter test and a visual inspection for "wicking" are essential.
• Deck Compression: The mast is stepped on deck, supported by a compression post that terminates near the keel. Inspect the deck area around the mast step for sagging or crazing, which may indicate a compressed core or a failing support structure.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder design puts significant stress on the upper and lower bearings. Any "slop" or vibration in the tiller while underway suggests the bearings require replacement.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The fin keel is bolted to a reinforced stub. Check for the "Nicholson smile"—a hairline crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—which may indicate that the keel bolts require tightening or that the sealant has failed.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Nicholson 30 Mk II are supported by a dedicated network of enthusiasts. The most prominent is the Nicholson 31 Association, which, despite its name, serves as a primary technical repository for the Nicholson 30 and 32 models as well. This association provides access to historical brochures, original Raymond Wall drawings, and a community of owners who specialize in the restoration and maintenance of these classic hulls.

The Verdict

The Nicholson 30 Mk II remains one of the most accessible entries into the world of classic British yachting, offering a blend of racing pedigree and artisan craftsmanship.

Pros:

• Excellent build quality and high-grade interior joinery.
• Agile and rewarding performance in light-to-moderate winds.
• Compact enough for easy single-handed sailing.
• Strong resale value due to the Camper & Nicholsons brand heritage.

Cons:

• The spade rudder and fin keel are less forgiving than the Nicholson 31’s long keel in heavy offshore conditions.
• The IOR-influenced hull shape can be "rolly" when sailing downwind in a swell.
• Limited headroom for taller sailors compared to modern high-volume cruisers.