Nonsuch 30 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Nonsuch 30 behaves unlike any traditional sloop. Its high Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio, often hovering around 21, provides significant power in light air, while the unstayed mast allows the sail to "spill" air at the tip during heavy gusts, effectively self-reefing to a degree. The handling is defined by its simplicity: there are no stays, no shrouds, and no jib to winch across the deck during a tack. To go about, the helmsman merely turns the wheel; the wishbone boom swings across, and the boat continues on its new tack without the need for a crew.

While the boat is exceptionally stiff and capable of reaching speeds that surprise owners of performance sloops, it does have specific handling quirks. Because there is no headsail, the boat lacks the "slot effect," making it slightly less efficient when pointing extremely close to the wind compared to a modern fin-keeled racer. However, on a reach or a run, the massive mainsail acts like a giant spinnaker. Good Old Boat notes that the boat’s tracking is aided by a deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, though the sheer power of the sail can create significant weather helm if the boat is over-canvassed in heavy air. Owners frequently report that the "sweet spot" for reefing is earlier than expected, usually around 15 to 18 knots of true wind.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Nonsuch 30 is famously comparable to most 35-to-38-foot sloops of the same era. Because the mast is stepped in the eyes of the bow, the entire length of the hull is available for living space. Hinterhoeller produced two primary variations of the interior: the "Classic" and the "Ultra."

The Classic version, produced from 1978 to 1984, features a wide-open layout with two large settees that convert into berths and a spacious galley located midships. This version is favored by those who prefer an airy, loft-like feel. The "Ultra" model, introduced in 1983, revised the layout to include a private forward stateroom with a large double berth offset to one side and a more secluded head. The Ultra also moved the galley further aft, which many cruisers prefer for its proximity to the companionway. Both models benefit from the 6'4" of headroom and the exceptional beam, which allows for a dining table that can comfortably seat six adults. The cabinetry is finished in high-quality teak, reflecting Hinterhoeller’s commitment to premium joinery.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Nonsuch 30 has a storied reputation within the cruising community and is frequently featured in literature concerning "sensible" yachting. It has been a mainstay in the writings of nautical columnists who champion "ease of use" over racing pedigree. The boat’s unique silhouette has appeared in numerous cruising guides for the Great Lakes and the Chesapeake Bay, where its shallow draft (approximately 5 feet for the fin keel, or less for rare centerboard versions) makes it an ideal gunkholer. The model is also the centerpiece of the International Nonsuch Association, which maintains one of the most comprehensive technical archives for any production sailboat.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should focus their inspections on the unique structural requirements of an unstayed rig.

1. Mast Partner & Step: Because the mast is unstayed, all the leverage from the sail is concentrated at the deck partner and the mast step. Inspect the deck around the mast for crazing or compression and check the aluminum mast base for signs of galvanic corrosion.
2. Balsa Core Integrity: Like many Hinterhoeller builds, the decks are balsa-cored. High-stress areas around the oversized mooring cleats and the mast partner are prone to water ingress if the bedding compound has failed.
3. Wishbone Hardware: The wishbone boom relies on specific blocks and a "choker" line to control sail shape. This hardware is under high tension and should be checked for metal fatigue or seized bearings.
4. The "Nonsuch Smile": Some owners report a small crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic, it can indicate the need for retorquing the keel bolts.
5. Engine Access: While generally good, the insulation in the engine box (often a Westerbeke or Universal diesel) may have degraded over time, leading to increased cabin noise.

Community & Resources

The Nonsuch 30 is supported by a remarkably active and technically proficient owner base. The International Nonsuch Association (INA) is the primary hub, providing detailed "maintenance wikis" that cover everything from re-coring decks to sourcing specific wishbone parts. This community is instrumental in keeping the fleet seaworthy, as they have commissioned custom production runs of parts that are no longer available from the original manufacturers.

The Verdict

The Nonsuch 30 remains a premier choice for the cruising couple or solo sailor who values interior volume and mechanical simplicity over traditional lines. It is a "thinking person's boat" that trades the complexity of multiple sails for a single, powerful rig that can be managed entirely from the cockpit.

Pros:

• Enormous Interior: Living space equivalent to a 36-38 foot traditional sloop.
• Simple Sail Plan: Single-sheet trimming and no jib winching make it the ultimate shorthanded cruiser.
• Build Quality: Hinterhoeller’s construction standards ensure the hull remains stiff and durable decades later.

Cons:

• Aesthetic Polarity: The catboat look and wishbone boom are "love it or hate it" features.
• Pointing Ability: Will not point as high as a modern sloop with a tight-luffed headsail.
• Mast Weight: The heavy unstayed mast can contribute to a slightly more rhythmic motion in a seaway compared to a lighter stayed rig.