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Sailboat Specifications

Bristol 30

Masthead Sloop · Fin Keel

Designed by Halsey Herreshoff · Built by Bristol Yachts, Inc. (Usa) · First built 1968

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LOA 30.00 ft  ·  Beam 9.17 ft  ·  Displacement 8,650.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 400  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Bristol 30 Sailboat

Built during Bristol's golden era of yacht construction, this 30-foot sailboat represents the Rhode Island builder's commitment to traditional craftsmanship and seaworthy design. Bristol Yachts earned a sterling reputation for producing well-built cruising boats that balanced comfort with sailing performance, and the Bristol 30 continues this legacy. Designed primarily for coastal cruising and weekend sailing, this model appeals to sailors seeking a manageable size without sacrificing the quality construction Bristol was known for. The boat features the builder's characteristic attention to detail in joinery and finish work, creating an interior that feels both practical and refined for its size. The Bristol 30's moderate displacement and sensible sail plan make it well-suited for both newer sailors developing their skills and experienced cruisers wanting a smaller, more easily handled boat. While not intended as a pure racing machine, the design offers respectable performance under sail with predictable handling characteristics. Like other Bristol models from this era, the 30 has developed a following among sailors who appreciate traditional yacht construction methods and the builder's reputation for creating boats that age gracefully when properly maintained.

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Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 30.00 ft / 9.14 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.67 ft / 6.91 m
Beam 9.17 ft / 2.80 m
Max Draft 4.50 ft / 1.37 m
Displacement 8,650.00 lb / 3,924 kg
Ballast 3,450.00 lb / 1,565 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 400
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Halsey Herreshoff
Builder Bristol Yachts, Inc. (USA)
First Built 1968
Last Built 1978
Number Built 174
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Engine & Accommodations
Horsepower 18
Fuel Capacity 20 gals / 76 L
Water Capacity 35 gals / 132 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bristol 30's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bristol 30 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.24. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bristol 30's comfort ratio?

The Bristol 30 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 28.09. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bristol 30 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bristol 30 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.79. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bristol 30?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bristol 30 is 6.38 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bristol 30 weigh?

The Bristol 30 has a displacement of 8,650.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 30.00 ft.

Who designed the Bristol 30?

The Bristol 30 was designed by Halsey Herreshoff, first built in 1968.