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10data points analyzed by Sailpages.com to compile this FORMOSA 30 buyer’s report
FORMOSA 30

FORMOSA 30

$129,167 avg$60,000 – $229,000 (3 listings)from 1972
$1.7K – $4.5K est. annual maintenance
Offshore CruisermonoMasthead KetchFull/Long

Specifications

Hull

LOA29.58 ft
LWL25 ft
Beam10.5 ft
Draft3.5 ft
Displacement10,800 lb
Ballast4,000.3 lb
Hull speed1.34·√LWL6.7 kn

About the FORMOSA 30

Sailpages Buyer's Take

The Formosa 30 is a classic 1972 ketch designed by Alden and built by Formosa Boat Building Co. Ltd., with an unknown total hull production count. Its authoritative specifications list a LOA of 29.58 ft, LWL of 25.0 ft, and a displacement of 10800.0 lb, reflecting a heavy, full-keel design typical of its era.

Best for:
This vessel suits traditionalists and coastal cruisers who prioritize seakworthiness and comfort over high-speed performance, given its high comfort ratio of 27.62 and low capsize ratio of 1.9.
Bluewater capability:
With a displacement of 10800.0 lb, a full/long keel, and a low capsize ratio of 1.9, the Formosa 30 is well-suited for offshore passages, offering excellent stability and motion comfort.
Comparables:
Comparable boats include other Alden-designed ketches from the early 1970s and similarly heavy-displacement full-keel trawlers, as they share the Formosa 30's emphasis on stability and offshore capability.

Performance

Comfort27.6
Capsize1.90
SA/Disp15.9
Disp/Len309
Bal/Disp37.0

Estimated Value

Low Confidence
Based on 3 listings
Low
$61,577
Estimated Value
$76,534
High
$127,233
Inflation-adjusted to 2026 USD

Estimated Cost of Ownership

Based on 29.58ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.

$/ft/mo
Annual Maintenance
$1.7K – $4.5K
Hull, rigging, sails, engine service
Annual Docking
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Annual Insurance
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Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection

2 reported issues across 2 systems for the FORMOSA 30, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.

1 critical1 major
Hull1Engine1

Unlock the full inspection report

Thinking of buying a FORMOSA 30? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for β€” so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.

  • βœ“ All 2 specific issues β€” severity, symptoms & fixes
  • βœ“ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
  • βœ“ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor β€” yours to keep

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Similar Sailboats

Which engine powers your FORMOSA 30?

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

Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Universal, Perkins β€” is it one of these?

Already know your engine? Search all engines β†’ to find its exact parts.

Used sails that fit the FORMOSA 30

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