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22data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this ETCHELLS 30 buyer’s report
ETCHELLS 30

ETCHELLS 30

· Design: Skip Etchells
from 1970
$1.5K – $4.0K est. annual maintenance
Racer/CruisermonoMasthead SloopFin

Specifications

Hull

LOA29.95 ft
LWL25 ft
Beam8.67 ft
Draft4.58 ft
Displacement5,720 lb
Ballast2,699.8 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.7 kn

About the ETCHELLS 30

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Etchells 30 is a 29.95 ft masthead sloop designed by Skip Etchells and built in 1970, with an unknown total hull production count. It features a fin keel and a displacement of 5720.0 lb, balancing performance with moderate comfort.

Best for:
This boat suits experienced sailors seeking a high-performance racer-cruiser with a 19.97 SA/D ratio, particularly those prioritizing speed and handling over heavy bluewater comfort.
Bluewater capability:
With a low 1.94 capsize ratio and 163.43 D/L ratio, the Etchells 30 is better suited for coastal cruising and racing than extended offshore passages due to its lighter displacement and fin keel design.
Comparables:
Comparable to other 1970s performance-oriented 30-footers like the Pearson 303 or O'Day 302, though the Etchells 30 distinguishes itself with a lighter 5720.0 lb displacement and higher sail area.

Performance

Comfort18.8
Capsize1.94
SA/Disp20.0
Disp/Len163
Bal/Disp47.2

Pricing

We don't have market pricing data for the ETCHELLS 30 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 29.95ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.5K – $4.0K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
N/A
No price data available

Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

4 reported issues across 3 systems for the ETCHELLS 30, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

1 critical2 major1 minor
Rudder2Rigging1Keel1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a ETCHELLS 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 4 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

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Which engine powers your ETCHELLS 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.

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

Used sails that fit the ETCHELLS 30

Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…