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Sailboat Specifications

Chesapeake 30

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Bob Seidelmann · Built by Dickerson/Seidelmann · First built 1977

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LOA 29.92 ft  ·  Beam 11.00 ft  ·  Displacement 8,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 476.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Chesapeake 30 Sailboat

Built with the Chesapeake Bay's challenging waters in mind, this 30-foot sailboat represents a thoughtful approach to regional sailing design. The boat draws its inspiration from the bay's unique sailing conditions, where shallow drafts and variable weather patterns demand versatility and reliability from any vessel. Designed for coastal cruising and day sailing, the Chesapeake 30 offers sailors a comfortable platform for exploring protected waters and near-shore environments. The boat's proportions suggest a design philosophy that prioritizes stability and ease of handling over pure performance, making it particularly appealing to cruising sailors and those new to larger sailboats. The cockpit layout emphasizes comfort and safety, with thoughtful attention paid to line routing and crew movement. Below deck, the accommodation plan maximizes the available space while maintaining the structural integrity essential for coastal sailing. The boat's construction reflects traditional sailboat building principles, emphasizing durability and seaworthiness over cutting-edge materials or racing-oriented features. For sailors seeking a reliable coastal cruiser with regional character, the Chesapeake 30 represents a solid choice that honors both traditional sailing values and practical cruising needs. Its design speaks to sailors who appreciate understated capability over flashy performance claims.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 29.92 ft / 9.12 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 27.00 ft / 8.23 m
Beam 11.00 ft / 3.35 m
Max Draft 5.50 ft / 1.68 m
Displacement 8,000.00 lb / 3,629 kg
Ballast 3,600.00 lb / 1,633 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 476.00 ft² / 44.22 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Bob Seidelmann
Builder Dickerson/Seidelmann
First Built 1977
Related Sailboats Catalina 30 · Hunter 30 · S2 92 C · Tartan 30
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Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Chesapeake 30 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 19.1. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Chesapeake 30's comfort ratio?

The Chesapeake 30 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 18.19. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Chesapeake 30 safe for offshore sailing?

The Chesapeake 30 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 2.2. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Chesapeake 30?

The theoretical hull speed of the Chesapeake 30 is 6.96 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Chesapeake 30 weigh?

The Chesapeake 30 has a displacement of 8,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 29.92 ft.

Who designed the Chesapeake 30?

The Chesapeake 30 was designed by Bob Seidelmann, first built in 1977.