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Sailboat Specifications

Rawson 30

Masthead Sloop · Long Keel

Designed by William Garden · Built by Ron Rawson, Inc. · First built 1958

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LOA 30.50 ft  ·  Beam 9.00 ft  ·  Displacement 12,000.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 424.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Long Keel
About the Rawson 30 Sailboat

William Garden's design philosophy of blending traditional aesthetics with practical seaworthiness shines through in this classic cruising sailboat from the late 1950s. Built by Ron Rawson, Inc. over a remarkable 26-year production run, this masthead sloop represents an era when builders prioritized solid construction and time-tested design principles over racing performance. The long keel configuration and substantial 5,000-pound ballast provide exceptional directional stability and contribute to the boat's reputation as a capable offshore passage maker. With a displacement of 12,000 pounds and a comfort ratio of 40.46, this design clearly favors cruising comfort over speed, making it well-suited for extended coastal cruising and offshore voyaging. Garden's attention to seaworthy proportions is evident in the conservative sail area-to-displacement ratio and favorable capsize screening numbers, characteristics that have earned these boats respect among serious cruising sailors. The fiberglass construction ensures durability while maintaining the classic lines Garden was known for. With 252 hulls built during its production run, this model represents one of the more successful interpretations of Garden's traditional design approach, offering modern sailors a taste of classic yacht design with proven ocean-going capabilities.

Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 30.50 ft / 9.30 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.00 ft / 6.71 m
Beam 9.00 ft / 2.74 m
Max Draft 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 12,000.00 lb / 5,443 kg
Ballast 5,000.00 lb / 2,268 kg
Ballast Type Concrete
Sail Area (Reported) 424.00 ft² / 39.39 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Long Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer William Garden
Builder Ron Rawson, Inc.
First Built 1958
Last Built 1984
Number Built 252
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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Palmer
Engine Type Gas
Horsepower 22
Fuel Capacity 37 gals / 140 L
Water Capacity 40 gals / 151 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Rawson 30 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 12.99. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Rawson 30's comfort ratio?

The Rawson 30 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 40.46. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Rawson 30 safe for offshore sailing?

The Rawson 30 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.58. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Rawson 30?

The theoretical hull speed of the Rawson 30 is 6.29 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Rawson 30 weigh?

The Rawson 30 has a displacement of 12,000.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 30.50 ft.

Who designed the Rawson 30?

The Rawson 30 was designed by William Garden, first built in 1958.