HURRICAN ISLAND 30

About the HURRICAN ISLAND 30

Also known as PRESTO 30.

The Hurricane Island 30 is a lightweight, unstayed cat-ketch designed by Rodger Martin and built by Southport Marine Island LLC in 2006. With a displacement of 3126.0 lb and a beam of 8.45 ft, this single-year production model offers a unique sailing experience distinct from traditional stayed rigs.

Best for:

This boat suits coastal cruisers and single-handers who prioritize ease of handling and low maintenance over heavy offshore endurance. Its light displacement and unstayed rig make it ideal for relaxed, short-to-medium range cruising where quick setup and takedown are valued.

Bluewater capability:

With a low displacement of 3126.0 lb and a comfort ratio of 9.93, the boat is best suited for protected coastal waters rather than extended bluewater passages. The unstayed rig eliminates standing rigging failure risks but requires careful sail management in heavy weather, limiting its offshore suitability compared to heavier, stayed-rig contemporaries.

Comparables:

Comparable boats include other Rodger Martin designs like the Hurricane Island 36 or 33, which share the same unstayed cat-ketch rig philosophy and lightweight construction ethos. It also compares to other 30-foot fractional sloop or ketch designs from the mid-2000s, though those typically feature heavier displacement and traditional standing rigging.