CAL 30
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 30 ft |
| LWL | 24.5 ft |
| Beam | 10 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 9,600 lb |
| Ballast | 3,500.2 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 37 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 32 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 14.3 ft |
| FLforestay | 12 ft |
| Mainsail | 436.8 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 210 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 357 sq ft |
About the CAL 30
Alternate tall rig: I: 37.0' J: 12.0' P: 32.0' E: 14.3' Replaced with another 30 footer, the CAL 2-30, in 1968.
Designed by Lapworth and built by Jensen Marine (USA) from 1961–1967, the CAL 30 is a classic heavy-displacement cruiser with 123 hulls produced. Its substantial 9600.0 lb displacement and 3500.2 lb ballast provide a stable, comfortable platform that remains popular among owners seeking a robust, traditional sailing experience.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize comfort and stability over high-speed performance, as well as those willing to invest in ongoing maintenance of its aging systems.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a D/L ratio of 291.42 and a Capsize ratio of 1.89, the CAL 30 possesses the heavy displacement and low center of gravity necessary for safe offshore passage making, provided critical structural components are sound.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 32 and Pearson 303, which share similar heavy-displacement characteristics and masthead sloop rigs from the same era, offering comparable interior volume and cruising comfort.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 4 | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 | 24 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 3.4 | 4.5 | 5.3 | 5.9 | 6.2 | 6.3 | 6.4 | 6.5 | 6.4 |
| 60° | 3.6 | 4.8 | 5.6 | 6.1 | 6.4 | 6.5 | 6.6 | 6.7 | 6.7 |
| 75° | 3.7 | 5.0 | 5.8 | 6.2 | 6.5 | 6.7 | 6.8 | 7.0 | 7.0 |
| 90° | 3.6 | 4.9 | 5.8 | 6.4 | 6.7 | 6.9 | 7.0 | 7.3 | 7.4 |
| 110° | 3.6 | 4.9 | 5.9 | 6.5 | 6.8 | 7.1 | 7.4 | 7.7 | 8.0 |
| 120° | 3.4 | 4.7 | 5.7 | 6.3 | 6.7 | 7.1 | 7.4 | 7.9 | 8.4 |
| 135° | 3.1 | 4.3 | 5.2 | 6.0 | 6.5 | 6.8 | 7.2 | 7.8 | 8.4 |
| 150° | 2.5 | 3.6 | 4.6 | 5.5 | 6.1 | 6.5 | 6.9 | 7.5 | 8.1 |
| Beat VMG | 2.2 | 3.0 | 3.6 | 4.0 | 4.3 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.4 |
| Run VMG | 2.2 | 3.1 | 4.0 | 4.8 | 5.4 | 6.0 | 6.4 | 7.0 | 7.5 |
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 30ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
28 reported issues across 9 systems for the CAL 30, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAL 30? 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 28 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 CAL 30?
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, Westerbeke, Universal, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the CAL 30
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…