Design and Construction
The Sunbeam 30 carries what the designer treated as an average hull form, neither radical nor bloated. The length-to-beam ratio is 3.08, and the layout is roomier than half of comparable designs. The wetted surface below the waterline measures about 26 square meters, or 279 square feet. The keel type is unknown. The draft runs about 1.50 to 1.60 meters, or 4.92 to 5.22 feet, depending on load. The immersion rate is about 179 kilograms per centimeter, equivalently 1007 pounds per inch.
Rig and Handling
The jib and genoa sheets each run about 9.1 meters with 12-millimeter diameter; the mainsheet is 22.8 meters and the spinnaker sheet 20.0 meters at the same diameter. The Sail Area Displacement ratio is 18.97. The capsize screening value is 1.96, by which formula alone the boat could be accepted to participate in ocean races.
Accommodations
The Sunbeam 30 is equipped with five berths, fitting its moderate length and the roomier-than-half comparison.
Known Issues
The keel type is unknown. The only caution beyond that is the saildrive transmission noted below.
Refits and Ownership
The Sunbeam 30 may be fitted with an inboard engine, and where fitted the transmission is a saildrive. A saildrive leg sits below the waterline and requires periodic seal inspection.
The Verdict
The Sunbeam 30 is a competent middle-of-the-road cruiser. Its numbers show a balanced hull, manageable draft, and a stability index clearing ocean-race screening, with a five-berth interior roomier than half its peers.
Pros
- Capsize screening value of 1.96, clearing ocean-race formula thresholds
- Draft of 4.92 to 5.22 feet keeps it in most marinas
- Five berths with interior roomier than half of comparable designs
- Sail Area Displacement ratio of 18.97 for able cruising performance
Cons
- Keel type not documented in the available record
- Saildrive transmission where an inboard is fitted demands periodic underwater-seal service
