Controversy 30

Designed by E.F. Butler and first launched in 1960, this classic wooden sailboat represents the era when traditional construction methods met evolving design philosophies for recreational sailing. Built by Mount Desert Yacht Yard in Maine, the Controversy 30 embodies the craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterized American boatbuilding during the early 1960s. With her masthead sloop rig and fin keel configuration, she strikes a balance between traditional aesthetics and modern sailing performance. The relatively narrow beam of 5.42 feet gives her an elegant profile while contributing to her upwind ability, though this design choice prioritizes performance over interior volume. Her substantial displacement of 11,100 pounds and deep 5.25-foot draft indicate a boat built for stability and seaworthiness rather than shallow-water exploration. The comfort ratio of 64.38 and excellent capsize screening formula of 0.97 suggest she's well-suited for coastal cruising and offshore passages, offering reassuring stability in challenging conditions. Her sail area to displacement ratio of 13.94 indicates moderate power, making her manageable for small crews while still providing respectable performance. This classic design appeals to sailors who appreciate traditional wooden construction and seek a capable vessel for serious coastal and offshore cruising adventures.

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