FASTBACK 30

About the FASTBACK 30

Twin keels in hulls with a daggerboard in the starboard hull.

The Fastback 30 is a 30.5 ft wide-beam catamaran designed by John Gross and built by Fastback Catamarans, with production years and total build counts currently unverified in available data. Owners report a lightweight displacement of 5400.0 lb and a high sail area-to-displacement ratio of 29.2, indicating a performance-oriented platform that requires diligent maintenance of its structural components.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and performance-oriented sailors who prioritize speed and interior volume over heavy offshore ruggedness, particularly those willing to manage the higher maintenance demands of a wide-beam catamaran.

Bluewater capability:

With a low capsize ratio of 3.65 and a lightweight displacement of 5400.0 lb, the Fastback 30 is generally considered suitable for coastal and nearshore cruising rather than extended bluewater passages, as its narrow hulls and high freeboard may pose stability challenges in heavy offshore conditions.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include other 30-foot performance catamarans from the same era, such as the Lagoon 30 or Beneteau First 30, which share similar beam dimensions and racing-focused hull forms, though the Fastback's specific build quality and structural integrity issues distinguish it from more mass-produced European rivals.