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120data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this BALLAD 30 (ALBIN) buyer’s report
BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)

BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)

Albin Marine/Shipman Marine🇸🇪· Design: Rolf Magnusson
1971–19821,500 built
$1.4K – $3.8K est. annual maintenance
Racer/CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin
Half Ton Class

Specifications

Hull

LOA29.99 ft
LWL22.64 ft
Beam9.71 ft
Draft5.09 ft
Displacement7,275.25 lb
Ballast3,417.2 lb
Material30’9.14 m
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.4 kn

Rig & Sails

Mainsail171.15 sq ft

Accommodation

Cabins1
Berths4
Heads1
Water17.2 L
Fuel8.7 L
CE category21.7

About the BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)

One of the most popular sailing yachts of this size ever built in Scandinavia. An evolution of the JOKER S30(1968). (IOR 1/2 ton) After Albin Marine went out of business in 1982, the molds were acquired by the Ballad One-Design Association and leased to a number of different yards in Sweden that built a few more boats until 1998. "Reported" sail area is based on Main + 135% Genoa Sail area: -Main: 15.9 m² / 171 ft² -Genoa (105%): 25.2 m² / 271.25 ft² -Genoa (135%): 28 m² / 301.4 ft² OE Auxiliary Power (Volvo Penta): Boats built / Model / HP 1971-75 / MD 6A / 10 1976-77 / MD 6B / 10 1977-78 / MD 7A / 13 1978-84 / MD 7B / 17 1984- / VP 2002 / 18

Sailpages Buyer's Take

Designed by Rolf Magnusson and built by Albin Marine/Shipman Marine (SWE) from 1971–1982, the Ballad 30 is a robust cruiser with 1500 hulls produced. Its heavy displacement of 7275.25 lb and fin keel configuration provide a stable, comfortable ride favored by long-term owners.

Best for:
This boat suits coastal cruisers and those seeking a sturdy, traditional sailing experience, particularly those willing to perform diligent maintenance on aging fiberglass structures.
Bluewater capability:
With a capsize ratio of 2.01 and a D/L ratio of 279.88, the Ballad 30 demonstrates strong offshore stability and resistance to capsizing, making it suitable for bluewater passages if structural integrity is verified.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include the Cal 30 and O'Day 302, which share similar beam widths and displacement characteristics from the same era, offering comparable interior volume and cruising comfort.

Performance

Comfort21.9
Capsize2.01
SA/Disp20.2
Disp/Len280
Bal/Disp47.0

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the BALLAD 30 (ALBIN) yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 29.99ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.4K – $3.8K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Articles & Reviews

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

19 reported issues across 6 systems for the BALLAD 30 (ALBIN), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

7 critical12 major
Structural6Engine4Deck3Rigging3Rudder2Hull1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • All 19 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
  • Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep

One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep

Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)?

We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Volvo Penta, Beta — is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the BALLAD 30 (ALBIN)

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