HELMS 30
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 30 ft |
| LWL | 23.42 ft |
| Beam | 9.33 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 9,600 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 40 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.85 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 35 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 10 ft |
| FLforestay | 12.9 ft |
| Mainsail | 446 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 257 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 436.9 sq ft |
About the HELMS 30
Designed by John Holmes and built by Jack A. Helms Co. (USA) in 1976, the Helms 30 is a robust masthead sloop with a displacement of 9600.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 29.83. While the exact hulls built count is unknown, this single-year production run represents a distinct era of American fiberglass construction known for heavy, safe offshore characteristics.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for experienced coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater sailors who prioritize structural integrity and seakeeping over high-speed performance. Its heavy displacement and fin keel make it ideal for those seeking a stable, comfortable platform for long-range cruising rather than racing.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 1.76 and a substantial displacement of 9600.0 lb, the Helms 30 is well-suited for offshore passages, provided the hull-deck joint and keel attachment are structurally sound.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 30 and O'Day 302, which share similar dimensions and heavy-displacement cruising philosophies from the mid-1970s. These vessels are comparable because they all prioritize safety and comfort with high D/L ratios (333.63 for the Helms) and moderate sail area-to-displacement ratios (15.35).
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HELMS 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 30ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
13 reported issues across 8 systems for the HELMS 30, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HELMS 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 13 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 HELMS 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, Universal — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the HELMS 30
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