Etap 30i

Sailing enthusiasts looking for a blend of performance and comfort may find the Etap 30i an ideal choice. This recreational keelboat, built predominantly from polyester glassfibre with foam-cored sandwich construction, highlights strength and durability. With its sleek design featuring a 7/8 fractional sloop rig and a walk-through reverse transom, the Etap 30i offers a modern aesthetic that appeals to both seasoned sailors and novices alike.

The Etap 30i is renowned for its unsinkable hull, ensuring an extra layer of safety on the water. Built first in the 1990s, this model continues to be popular among cruising aficionados for its balance between speed and stability. The spade rudder and fin keel facilitate easy maneuverability and performance, making it a reliable choice for extended trips or weekend getaways.

Potential buyers can find various Etap 30i models for sale through platforms like YachtWorld, providing options tailored to different budgets and preferences. The combination of innovative design, reliable performance, and strong market presence makes the Etap 30i a compelling option for anyone interested in a versatile cruiser.

Key Takeaways

• The Etap 30i is known for its unsinkable hull design.
• It offers a balance of performance and comfort with a modern look.
• Various models are available for purchase through YachtWorld.

History and Background

Etap Yachting has a rich history in boat manufacturing, with the Etap 30i being one of its notable models. This section explores the origins of Etap Yachting and the evolution of the Etap 30i.

Origins of Etap Yachting

Etap Yachting is a Belgian company that started building boats in the 1970s. Known for its innovative designs, Etap quickly gained a reputation for producing unsinkable sailboats. This reputation set them apart in the boating community.

The company focused on using advanced materials and construction techniques. Polyester glassfibre and foam cored sandwiches were commonly used, enhancing durability and safety. These choices reflected Etap’s commitment to delivering high-quality and safe boats.

Etap’s designs catered to sailors looking for reliability and performance. This focus on safety and innovation helped Etap establish itself as a leader in the sailing world, with a significant presence in markets like the Netherlands and Portugal.

Evolution of the Etap 30i

The Etap 30i was launched in 1995, featuring several unique innovations. With a 7/8 fractional sloop rig, aluminum spars, and deck-stepped mast, it was designed for both performance and convenience in sailing.

A key feature was its unsinkable design, achieved through its foam sandwich construction. This made the boat highly safe for various conditions. The 30i also offered a removable mainsheet track and several wing keel options, adding to its versatility.

From its launch, the Etap 30i was well-received. It was praised for its ease of handling, stiffness, and sea-kindliness under sail. These qualities made it popular among family cruisers and short-handed sailors, cementing its place in Etap's lineup until production ceased around 2007.

Design and Specifications

The Etap 30i is a monohull cruiser sailboat, known for its blend of performance and stability. It was designed by Mortain & Mavrikios and built by Etap Yachting between 1995 and 2005. The boat features a polyester glassfibre-foam cored sandwich construction alongside a comfortable and thoughtful design.

Overall Design

The Etap 30i spans 29 feet 4 inches in length (LOA) with a beam of 10 feet 6 inches. It was engineered for cruising, providing a stable sailing experience. The sailboat has a displacement of approximately 7,496 pounds and carries a ballast of around 2,557 pounds, ensuring good overall stability in various sailing conditions.

The designer, Mortain & Mavrikios, incorporated a fractional sloop rig, optimizing sail area for handling and performance. The sail area/displacement ratio suggests that the Etap 30i is slightly underpowered but suitable for relaxed, easier sailing. A small fuel capacity further emphasizes its role as a day-boat rather than long-range cruiser.

Hull Design and Construction

The hull of the Etap 30i is built predominantly from a polyester glassfibre-foam cored sandwich. This construction method improves the strength and durability of the hull while also ensuring buoyancy. The overall design features clean lines and a practical layout, maximizing both aesthetic appeal and functionality.

The deep L-shaped keel in the deep draft version provides enhanced upwind capabilities. Designed with a low righting capability, it's engineered to be stable and stiff but not overly heavy. The light displacement allows for a responsive and agile sailing experience.

The Etap 30i's hull length on deck (LOD) is comparable to its LOA, underscoring its honest build in accordance with accepted industry standards. This kind of transparency reflects the reputable and consistent standards maintained by Etap Yachting.

Performance and Capabilities

The Etap 30i is known for its strong sailing performance and safety features, making it a reliable choice for both day sailing and coastal cruising. Despite its smaller fuel capacity and light build, it offers a comfortable and stable sailing experience.

Sailing Performance

The Etap 30i is a 29.33 ft fractional sloop designed by Mortain & Mavrikios. It is built from fiberglass, which makes it a lightweight sailboat. As a result, it is slightly underpowered, but this does not significantly impact its performance in most conditions.

The boat features a hull speed of around 6.8 knots. Its performance ratios, like the SA/Disp and Disp/Length, suggest that the Etap 30i can handle moderate weather efficiently.

The 30i is equipped with a deep draft option, which includes an L-shaped keel. This enhances its upwind performance by providing better stability. The boat has a moderate spin and is easy to handle, making it suitable for both novices and experienced sailors.

Comfort and Safety

Comfort on the Etap 30i is enhanced by several features. The boat has a stable platform that minimizes excessive rolling, contributing to a more comfortable sailing experience. It is well-suited for short-handed cruising, adding a layer of convenience for smaller crews or families.

Safety is a key aspect of the Etap 30i. With its stiff and sea-kindly build, it ensures better handling in harsh conditions. The boat includes safety features like the 'EVS' steering system and options for wing keels.

The Etap 30i's capsize screening formula indicates that it has a low righting capability if capsized, making it safer for coastal cruising rather than ocean passages. Nevertheless, its design helps in maintaining stability, ensuring a safe environment for all aboard.

On-Board Features

The Etap 30i is designed for recreational sailing with features that make it both comfortable and practical. This sailboat comes equipped with a cozy cabin, a well-thought-out galley, and a functional cockpit and deck layout.

Cabin and Accommodations

The cabin of the Etap 30i is designed with comfort in mind. It offers ample sleeping space with multiple berths available, making overnight trips enjoyable. The interior is trimmed with wood, giving it a warm and inviting feel.

There is a spacious saloon area for socializing or dining, fitted with a foldable table for convenience. The boat's construction includes a foam-cored sandwich hull, contributing to its unsinkable design. Storage compartments are efficiently integrated, providing plenty of room for personal belongings.

Galley and Equipment

The galley in the Etap 30i is compact yet fully equipped for extended cruises. It includes a stove, a sink with running water, and a sufficient amount of counter space for meal preparation.

There is also a refrigerator to keep perishable food items fresh. The design ensures that everything is within easy reach, making it practical for cooking while at sea. Storage lockers are available for kitchenware and provisions. Additionally, the water tank provides an adequate supply of fresh water.

Cockpit and Deck Layout

The cockpit of the Etap 30i is designed for both comfort and functionality. It features comfortable seating for crew members, with storage lockers under the seats. The layout is optimized for smooth sailing with easy access to all key controls and equipment.

The deck includes a walk-through reverse transom for easy boarding and disembarking. It also comes with various rigging options like swept spreaders and a 7/8 fractional sloop rig.

Safety features, such as sturdy handrails and non-slip surfaces, are incorporated to ensure secure movement on deck.

Technical Details

The Etap 30i is a well-designed sailboat that focuses on reliable performance with careful attention to details in its engine and propulsion, as well as its fuel, water, and electrical systems.

Engine and Propulsion

The Etap 30i is equipped with a diesel engine that ensures dependable power. This engine drives a fixed, two-blade propeller, offering a balance between efficiency and performance.

The diesel engine provides enough power for smooth cruising under motor, while remaining fuel-efficient.

The propeller design minimizes drag and enhances maneuverability, making docking and tight quarters navigation easier. The engine and propeller work together seamlessly, ensuring the Etap 30i performs well under various conditions.

Fuel, Water, and Electrical Systems

The Etap 30i has a fuel capacity that is quite small compared to other boats its size.

This limits long-distance cruising without refueling but is suitable for day trips and short coastal journeys. The fuel tank is made from durable materials and connected with robust hoses to ensure safety and reliability.

The boat also includes water tanks that provide fresh water for onboard usage. These tanks are designed to be easily accessible for refilling and maintenance.

The electrical system on the Etap 30i includes batteries that power onboard electronics and lighting. A simple yet effective setup ensures that all essential systems function smoothly, while being easy to maintain.

Ownership Experience

The Etap 30i is popular for its solid construction and unique unsinkability feature. This section covers key aspects that new and potential owners should be aware of.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Owning an Etap 30i comes with a few maintenance tasks that need to be regularly addressed. The hull’s durability is a significant advantage, and due to the boat's double-skinned construction, issues like osmosis are less common.

Routine checks for the tiller, rigging, and sails are essential to ensure safety and performance. The fittings in the cockpit are over-engineered, reducing the frequency of repairs. Regular cleaning and timely inspections are necessary, especially to maintain the fuel system. Basic upkeep can prevent significant future expenses, making ownership more manageable.

Market Availability and Value

Etap 30i boats have seen variable availability in the market. They are often found on platforms like YachtWorld, where their unique features attract buyers. The market value of an Etap 30i often remains strong due to its reputation for safety and build quality.

When compared to models like the Etap 24i or 37s, the 30i holds its value well. The unsinkability aspect is a significant selling point, making it a dependable option for family voyages. On the downside, finding specific parts can sometimes be challenging, but the boat's robust design usually mitigates the need for frequent replacements.

Frequently Asked Questions

These FAQs address key aspects of the ETAP 30i sailboat, including its unique features, performance, pricing, considerations for buyers, owner experiences, and ETAP Yachts' production history.

What are the distinguishing features of the ETAP 30i compared to earlier models like the ETAP 30?

The ETAP 30i, introduced in 1995, was designed by Mortain & Mavrikios. It features a 7/8 fractional sloop rig, aluminum spars, and a deck-stepped mast. The construction includes polyester glassfibre and foam-cored sandwich, enhancing durability and insulation compared to the earlier ETAP 30 model.

How do the sailing performance and handling characteristics of the ETAP 30i compare with other similar models?

The ETAP 30i is known for its seaworthiness and stability, thanks to its fin keel. It offers good maneuverability and a safe, deep cockpit. Although some similar models may have a long keel offering greater directional stability, the ETAP 30i's design strikes a balance between performance and handling.

What is the average market price for a used ETAP 30i sailboat?

As of the current market, the price of a used ETAP 30i can vary widely depending on the boat's condition, age, and location. On average, buyers can expect to pay between $30,000 and $50,000 for a well-maintained model.

What should potential buyers consider when looking at ETAP 30i sailboats for sale?

Potential buyers should inspect the boat for signs of good maintenance. Key areas to check include the hull integrity, rigging, sail condition, and electronics. It's also essential to verify that all fittings and equipment are in good condition, as the quality of upkeep significantly affects the boat's value and longevity.

Can owners share their experiences regarding the long-term maintenance and durability of ETAP 30i boats?

Owners often report that ETAP 30i boats are durable and relatively low-maintenance due to quality construction materials. Regular maintenance tasks include checking the rigging, cleaning the hull, and servicing the engine. Owners appreciate the overall robustness and seaworthiness of the ETAP 30i.

What led to the discontinuation of the ETAP Yachts production, and how does it affect current owners?

ETAP Yachting ceased production in the late 2000s due to financial difficulties. This affects current owners primarily in the availability of original spare parts and service. However, many owners still find support through dedicated online communities and aftermarket suppliers.