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Fifteen years after the last Baba was built in Taiwan, the sailboat's traditional styling, large interior and heavy weather performance make it a favorite of cruising couples. Its principal liability is poor light air performance.
The Baba line of boats was conceived in the mid-1970’s by Bob Berg, a Seattle yacht broker who with two business associates formed Flying Dutchman International Ltd. to import traditionally styled cruising boats from Taiwan.
Bob Perry was commissioned to design the boats, which Berg envisioned as a smaller version of the Tayana 37, one of Perry’s most popular designs. Though it is a full-keeled boat, the Tayana 37 has a greater turn of speed than most traditional yachts.
“Our objective was to produce a boat that was faster and less expensive than the Westsail 32 and the Valiant 32,” Berg said. He personally designed the boat’s interior for longdistance cruising. Two versions were offered: a V-berth model, which was popular on the West Coast, and the double berth model that was popular in the East.
Berg chose a propitious time to enter the market. Production began during the heyday of the sailboat industry in 1978 and continued until 1985. More than 230 Baba 30’s were produced. During the later stages of its history, the company produced two stretch versions of the boat-theBaba 35, of which more than 50 were built, and the Baba 40, with more than 150 built. The design of the Baba 40 was reworked twice, first as the Panda 40, and later as the Tashiba 40.
The boats were built in Taiwan for three reasons, Berg said. “Ta Shing boatbuilders were among the best in the world, and the best in Taiwan. Labor was inexpensive. And we enjoyed a favorable exchange rate.”
Ta Shing also built or builds the Mason, Panda, Tashiba and Taswell yachts.
The Baba 30 was introduced with a sticker price of $38,500 in 1977. A subsequent change in the value of the dollar resulted in a price jump to $49,500. That was followed by a 40% devaluation of the Taiwanese dollar and another increase in price.
Two other factors influenced pricing: The builder switched from Volvo engines, installed on early models, to Yanmar, and spruce spars were replaced by aluminum. The last boats sold were priced at $78,000.
In addition to pricing issues, the demise of Flying Dutchman International was accelerated by two other factors: a general slump in the purchase of new boats, and a shift in buyer sentiment. During the mid-1980’s, purchasing patterns shifted to a preference for lighter, faster, sleeker-looking designs.
The Baba 30 continues to have one of the highest resale values in the marketplace. Twenty-year-old boats sell for $55,000 to $60,000; newer models for $60,000 to $65,000. Because Flying Dutchman had dealers on both coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, Great Lakes and Canada, it is possible to find used boats in most areas.
Perry’s design reflects a self-described disdain for the belief that “if it’s a traditional design it will be slow.” His objective was to take a relatively heavy, traditional double-ender and work with the hull lines to “ring every tenth of a knot in speed out of the design that I can.”
He gave the boat an easily driven hull with a prismatic coefficient of .50, “which should take care of performance in light air,” he said. The hull has considerable flair to the topsides, which enhances stability and provides a dry ride when sailing to weather.
He also flattened the bottom more than a typical Colin Archer design in an attempt to avoid hobby horsing and enhance performance. The boat has a full keel with a cutaway forefoot, so it tracks well. One owner, however, described backing up under power as “an adventure,” a typical characteristic of full-keeled boats.
Owners give the boat high marks for its sea kindly motion in all types of sea conditions. They generally agree that it suffers in light air.
Perry was equally attentive to the needs of cruisers in the design of spaces belowdecks. That concern, coupled with a pinched stern, produces a rather smallish cockpit. Its seats are 60″ long and 20″ wide, so realistically has comfortable seating for four adults. The footwell is 44″ long and 28″ wide, but useful space is diminished by the introduction of a steering pedestal. The cockpit is not large enough for sleeping comfortably, but its small size is a safety feature in the event of boarding waves. Also, there are two 2″ scuppers.
The flip side of the minimalist approach to the cockpit is an increase in space belowdecks.
“Anything shorter than 30′ is too small for a long-distance cruiser, unless you are willing to make serious compromises. At 30′, the designer still can create a workable galley, at least four full length berths, and an enclosed head,” Perry said.
The boat has 6′ 4″ headroom and a lot of stowage, even when compared to more recent 32- to 34-footers, but the price of stowage areas is a dramatic increase in displacement. The boat displaces 12,000 lb. on a 24′ 6″ waterline. Perry said that at the time he designed the Baba 30, the average 30- footer displaced about 7 ,000 lb.
“But,” he added, “you will find that the light yacht is short on stowage space, which is fine for short weekend trips and day sailing. I chose a rather beamy double-ender with a healthy displacement-to-length ratio(D/L) of 3 79, which afforded the interior volume to do a comfortable layout.”
The Baba 30 has a tall cutter rig. The sail area-to-displacement ratio (SAID) is 14.97. “While this may be viewed as a rather low figure,” he said, “it is my contention that at this size the use of a 150% genoa is not prohibitive. My aim was to design a rig compatible with the hull I had designed in terms of deriving maximum performance.”
During our test sail, we discovered that a large genoa or light air drifter contributes significantly to downwind speed in winds under 10 knots. Above 15 knots, the boat can be sailed at hull speed with a jib and staysail.
One owner told us that the boat is easily driven to weather, and will point to within 35 of apparent wind when sails are properly trimmed.
“The result of my design is not a cute cartoon,” Perry concluded, “but a really capable offshore cruising yacht.
Construction
Berg, two professional surveyors, and owners who responded to the PS Boatowner’ s Questionnaire agree that the Baba 30 is a well-constructed, blue-water vessel.
The hulls were constructed of uncored, hand-laid fiberglass using alternating layers of 1. 5-ounce mat and 24-ounce woven roving.
There are six layers in most places, and 10-12 layers in the keel area,” Berg recalled.
The interiors of early boats were smoothed and sprayed with gelcoat, and covered with a quilted vinyl material. Later models were sprayed with a foam that provided insulation and sound deadening.
Newer boats we inspected also have hulls lined with teak battens in the saloon and forepeak, which improve noise insulation and add to the boat’s traditional feel. The cabin sole is teak and holly. Cabinetry and joinery are of a quality typically associated with high-end custom yachts.
Berg disclosed that some of the hulls experienced minor blistering problems, “usually within 12″ of the waterline,” he said.
Ron Reisner, a Seattle-based surveyor and construction consultant with Reisner and McEwen, Inc., oversaw construction of Baba yachts during the 1970’s on two trips to Taiwan. He has since surveyed several used Baba 30’s, including two in 1998.
“The boats were substantially built, and have held up well,” he told us. “The only problem we have discovered is that some chainplate bolts have corroded.” Because the bolts are visible from below, their condition is easy to monitor.
Jerry Edwards, a surveyor with the same firm, concurred. Edwards sold, commissioned and performed sea trials on several boats during three years as a yacht broker, and has surveyed seven since becoming a surveyor.
“The construction is on a par with almost any quality production boat,” he said. “The electrical systems are excellent; the company used high quality wire, which was tagged and bundled. The plumbing system is also good. The blisters we saw were usually 1/8″ inch in size, and usually in small clusters near the waterline. They probably were a function of the company using isophthalic resins, rather than orthophthalic. But my main criticism of the boat is the use of a steel fuel tank.”
We inspected boats constructed in 1979 and 1983, both of which had completed trans-Pacific passages, and found no evidence of cracking or crazing on gelcoat surfaces, or of water leaks around the mast or ports. One still has a good non-skid surface on deck. On the other, its teak decks showed little wear.
The first boats produced were equipped with only one set of shrouds, Berg told us. However, after one owner’s boat was dismasted, fore and aft lower shrouds were added to the single spreader rig.
Later models incorporated a boom gallows.
Deck Layout
One of the Baba 30’s most prominent features is the 4′ bowsprit. It is surrounded by a stainless steel pulpit, and also houses two bow rollers and a large bronze winch.
Most boats were equipped with self-tending staysails, but two we inspected had been retrofitted with furlers on the jib and staysail stays, which simplified sail handling during double-handed passages across the Pacific Ocean.
The rest of the boat’s on-deck systems are rather ordinary; halyards are led to Lewmar 30 twospeed winches mounted on the cabin top, and jib sheets through blocks to Lewmar 40 two-speed winches in the cockpit. Sail tracks, port and starboard, on the coachroof, are for the stay sail sheets. The side decks are 18″ wide. The toerail is 3″ high.
Though tiny, the cockpit is functionally organized. Stowage space includes a port lazarette, two elevated, ovalshaped compartments aft that also provide a backrest for the helmsman and crew, and another vented compartment for a propane tank. Two 14″-wide cubbies with teak covers are good for stowing winch handles and other small items.
Two hatches and four bronze opening ports on each side of the cabin were standard. Two opening skylights over the saloon are 34″ long and 18″ wide; a second 24″ square hatch is located over the forepeak. Additional ventilation is through two 6″ Dorades installed in fiberglass boxes forward of the mast.
One owner mounted a spinnaker pole on a sail track on the front of the mast, which takes no otherwise usable space and eliminates the need to drill holes in the deck.
Accommodations
A number of Baba 30’s have made trans-oceanic passages, carrying adequate provisions for a crew of two. One couple spent 27 days sailing from Hawaii to Seattle.
The layout is fairly straightforward with the galley to port below the companionway, the nav station opposite, and a quarterberth to starboard. An almost triangular-shaped head is to starboard, forward of the saloon, and the V-berth fills the bow. With the exception of countertops in the galley, all of the surfaces are teak, which has aged well on the boats we saw.
The nav table is 28″ wide, and 17″ deep. A cabinet 26″ wide, 14″ high and 12″ deep is on the forward edge of the nav station and provides adequate room for VHS, GPS, ham radio or single-sideband and weatherfax. An additional 50″ x 9″ shelf provides room for books and other instruments.
The quarterberth aft of the nav station is 68″ long (plus 12″ of the nav seat) and 30″ wide and has stowage below it.
We found two interesting stowage areas under the companionway-a hanging locker immediately to starboard of the engine compartment that is large enough for two sets of foul weather gear, and another 18″ wide and 12″ high into which one owner had mounted a small microwave oven.
The engine is accessible by removing the companionway steps and cover, though some owners complain that changing oil filters is an acrobatic challenge.
The galley is a typical U-shaped affair with the ice box aft, a gimbaled two-burner stove and a dry locker and sink forward. Countertops are as large as those found on bigger boats.
Living spaces are equally spacious, partially attributable to the boat’s 10′ 6″ beam and 6′ 4″ headroom. The port settee is 6′ long and the starboard settee is 50″. Three storage compartments measuring 20″ wide, 21″ tall and 16″ deep are located on both sides of the boat, above which are enclosed cabinets more than 24″ long.
Water and fuel tanks are located below the settees.
The head is large enough to be functional but has little elbow room. It measures 31″ deep and 42″ wide, and is equipped with a circular stainless sink. The medicine cabinet is large enough for some toiletries, but too small for a cruising medical kit.
The hanging locker to port is 43″ high and 18″ wide-adequate for a small amount of clothing. We think most clothes will be stored in cabinets below the 77″ x 60″ V-berth. The chain locker/forepeak is accessed through louvered teak doors. A drawback is the water that can come aboard with the ground tackle, not to mention the smell of mud.
In our opinion, the spaces belowdecks on this boat are well-organized and adequate for couples planning extended passages, especially compared to newer production boats.
Some owners, however, report that tankage numbers are inaccurate. One told us that the fuel tank holds just 2 7 gallons, not 40 as advertised. Another said the two 40-gallon water tanks hold only 50 gallons combined.
Performance
Our experience aboard the Baba 30, corroborated by PS readers, found that in very light winds she’s an under-performer; above that, she performs on all points of sail, is sea kindly and has an easy helm.
The most cogent comments came from a couple in their mid-50’s who sailed a 1976 model from Hawaii to Seattle. After cruising Hawaiian waters for 18 months, they began the upwind route to the mainland, which took 27 days. The boat was not equipped with a spinnaker, so they used a 150% genoa in light air.
In less than 10 knots of wind the boat made 1-2 knots, steered to within 5 of its intended course for three days by an Auto-helm wind vane. When winds picked up to more than 10 knots, boat speed increased to 5 knots while sailing under the vane on a close reach. Three days from port the boat was struck by a 30-hour storm, during which winds built from 20 to 50 knots.
“The wind vane wasn’t operating properly, so we disconnected it, and steered by hand,” the skipper said. “Aside from general fatigue, we had no problems because the boat was easy to sail and the helm well-balanced; we just tied off the helm and hid behind the dodger, sailing under a double-reefed main and staysail. The ride was very comfortable. It seems as though the more the wind blew, the stouter the boat became.”
Conclusions
We think the Baba 30 will be pleasing to the eye of any sailor with an appreciation for traditional yachts. The construction methods are among the best used during its era, and have aged well; recent surveys of aging boats show them to be structurally sound. Accommodations are spacious and the joiner work is of very good quality. Performance is about what we’d expect for a boat with her displacement, so it’s no surprise that she’s sluggish in 5-10 knots of wind.
The Baba 30 has held its value well; used boats are still commanding prices nearly as high as they were 10 years ago.
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I’ve never seen a 30 – or any baba – with a self tending staysail, nor have i ever heard of it anywhere else. I don’t know where the number of hatches came from either : companionway, forward hatch, and 10 opening windows (all of them). Most 30s have one inline and one aft lower (though a few moved the inline lower shroud forward). Otherwise, this seems mostly accurate. Oh, several dozen hull numbers were skipped so there’s about 150 30s produced i believe.
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T he Baba 30 is a small but serious cruising boat. And it certainly looks the part with a shapely canoe stern, springy sheerline and proud bowsprit. The Baba 30 pedigree arcs through Colin Archer's converted lifeboats of the 19th century to the famed Tahiti ketches that carried early cruisers around the world between wars. More recently, like many small double-enders that sprang to life in the 1970s, the Baba 30 was inspired by the stunning success of the Westsail 32. Baba 30 designer Bob Perry confesses that the Westsail was a role model of sorts for some of his early cruising designs.
"To sell a cruising design in those days, it had to look something like the Westsail," Perry said.
Indeed, salty double-enders with full keels were de rigueur during those cruising boom years, and not surprisingly they've stood the test of time. Many are still making bluewater passages today. This past summer I noted an older Baba 30 in the anchorage at St. George's, Bermuda. It glistened with fresh varnish and its solo skipper was on his way to the Mediterranean. When American exporter Bob Berg commissioned a small yard in Tainan, Taiwan, to build Perry's design, few would have predicted that Ta Shing, then a fledgling builder of local fishing boats, would develop into one of the world's finest yacht builders. Quoted in Spurr's comprehensive book, Heart of Glass, Perry says that he had to kick the chickens out of the way when walking to the Ta Shing yard in those early days. According to Spurr, the workers couldn't pronounce Bob Berg's name, it came out as "Baba," and it stuck. The Baba 30 sounds better than the Berg 30. Launched in 1978, the Baba 30 was Ta Shing's first sailboat, and by the time production stopped in 1985, 230 had been built. Perry credits Berg with taking the time to overcome communication snafus with the crew at Ta Shing, thus eliminating the construction woes that plagued other Taiwan yards. "Ta Shing essentially required no learning curve," Perry said. "They were great right out of the starting blocks." Ta Shing went on to produce many fine sailboat lines, including Taswell, Norseman and Tashiba.
First impressions
If you're a traditionalist the Baba 30 will stir you. Nicely proportioned and laden with teak, the Baba 30 conjures visions of lush tropical islands. Close your eyes, can you see it, a lovely Baby 30 swinging at anchor in Cook's Bay, Moorea? Once aboard you realize that the Baba 30 isn't really a pocket cruiser. It's a big boat trapped in short body. The 12,500 pounds of displacement and 5,000 pounds of ballast are the telling figures. By way of comparison, other early full-keel 30-footers like the Alberg, Bristol and Cape Dory weigh considerably less. The rig is a classic cutter with 504 square feet of working sail area. Early boats were fitted with wooden spars and came standard with a hanked-on staysail and yankee. Today, most Baba 30s on the used market have furling headsails and some a furling staysail as well. The hull shape features a long bow overhang and gradual sloping forefoot that trails into a long keel section. The rudder is completely protected and the prop is housed in a small aperture. While the Baba 30 is at home in blue water, especially if it's blowing, it's a handful when backing into a slip under power.
Construction
The hull is solid fiberglass, laid up to heavy scantlings. Supposedly the lamination schedule exceeded Lloyd's A-1 specs and some boats were built to Lloyd's 100-A1 and have the certificate to prove it. This process didn't require more fiberglass just more supervision. The deck is cored with either balsa or plywood, in either case end-grain sections were used to prevent the spread of core delamination caused by leaks. Most early boats had teak decks. Love them or loathe them, everybody has an opinion on teak decks. If they haven't gone off yet, they look nice and offer the best nonskid surface ever developed. However, if the bungs are popping, the fasteners are weeping, and the planks are too thin to sand another time, replacing them is an expensive proposition. Even just removing them and switching to a fiberglass or a synthetic nonskid surface like Treadmaster is costly and a lot of work. Later in the production run Ta Shing went with textured nonskid decks and cabintops. That of course didn't mean these models were low maintenance, there's still plenty of teak to keep you busy. The hull and deck are joined chemically and mechanically with stainless bolts. The teak caprail covers the joint. Although some older boats featured solid teak staved bulkheads, most Baba 30s have teak-faced plywood bulkheads, which are preferred. There is a lot of solid teak below and the overall joinerwork is superb. The internal ballast consists of a single cast iron ingot placed in the keel cavity and glassed over. The bowsprit is robustly constructed of laminated wood and anchored by an impressive samson post.
What to look for
Baba 30s demand steady maintenance. If the external teak is not kept up the boat can look shoddy. Conversely, an investment of time and sandpaper can make the boat look stunning again. The basic construction was first rate, and for the most part the boats have held up very well, especially considering many have completed extensive cruises. Naturally there are certain items to watch for when purchasing a Baba 30. As noted above, early boats often came with wooden spars. I'd look for a boat with an aluminum mast and boom. If you need to replace a wooden spar contact Forespar; they built most of the later aluminum masts. In a perfect world I'd also look for a model without teak decks. However, that will limit your choices. Other documented problems concern the fuel and water tanks. The fuel tank was black iron, and although diesel is a wonderful lubricate, these tanks do rust because they are situated in the bilge and the Baba 30 bilge drainage system is not the best. Water tanks were often an inferior stainless steel and should be checked as well. Replacing the tanks is a big job that usually requires cabin sole surgery. Naturally, all age-related items should be inspected carefully, including the standing and running rigging. The chainplates deserve close scrutiny as they're prone to crevice corrosion and there have been some documented failures. The Baba owners' Web site, www.babaowners.org , offers maintenance tips and other more involved retrofit suggestions.
The cockpit of the Baba is designed for offshore sailing as defined in the 1970s. Translation: It's cramped and uncomfortable but offers little volume for water to accumulate should a wave crash aboard. This is a tradeoff you just have to live with and try to make things better with cockpit cushions. Steering can be either tiller or wheel. I prefer the tiller for simplicity and because it occupies less space, especially in port when it can be pushed aft out of the way. However, because the Baba 30 can carry a lot of sail in a blow, it can also develop biceps-building weather helm and that gets tiring with a tiller. Like any serious cruising boat, reliable self-steering is vitally important. The canoe stern is well suited for fitting a wind vane. There is a stout bridgedeck and I like the teak doors that are always ready to close if things turn snotty. The deck feels secure as you make your way forward. The small bulwark, well-supported stanchions and lifelines and a long teak grabrail combine to give you something to lean on when you leave the cockpit. The headsail lead tracks are mounted on the side decks while the staysail track is on the coachroof. There's plenty of clutter on deck, including a large wooden hatch forward, a lovely butterfly hatch over the saloon, dorade vent guards and other assorted bits and pieces. But that's part of the charm too. You don't choose a Baba 30 if you're looking for a sleek, modern deck profile. The mainsheet traveler is forward of the companionway. Some boats will have sail controls led aft, which is convenient if not wildly efficient.
While the layout is predictable, the workmanship is remarkable. The interior fairly drips with teak. White mica surfaces in the galley are about the only areas below that are not finished in teak. It's impressive how well many of the 30s still look. This is a testament to excellent original construction and to building boats that didn't leak. Nothing spoils a handsome teak interior faster than leaky decks and overhead fittings. While the interior is a bit dark by today's standards, it's also warm and inviting in colder climates. There's good ventilation provided by two huge overhead hatches and opening bronze portlights. The layout features a U-shaped galley to port including double stainless sinks, a full-sized stove and oven and ample storage. This is a galley more likely found aboard a 36-foot cruiser. Opposite is a quarterberth that forms the seat for the nav station. This berth usually turns into a storage bin. The chart table is also well-sized with a couple of shelves above. The electrical panel is positioned so that it is easy to accidently trip breakers when seated at the nav station, but this is easily corrected. There's also a draining wet locker to starboard of the companionway. Later boats featured a bulkhead-mounted fold-up table in the saloon, freeing up valuable space. Some early boats had fixed tables. The port settee makes the best sea berth and there are lockers and bins above each. Some boats will have retrofitted mica surfaces around the portlights, a practical move that brightens the boat. There are stout overhead grabrails throughout. The head is forward to starboard and includes a shower sump. The V-berth is spacious with lockers below and louvered shelves to port and starboard.
Ta Shing used a variety of engines during its seven-year production of the Baba 30, including Volvo, Westerbeke and Yanmar. The last engine, the Yanmar 3GMF 27-horsepower is probably the best, at least it's less expensive to maintain. Buying parts for old Volvos and Westerbekes can break your heart. I know, I've owned both. Access is from the behind the companionway steps, and it helps to be small and nimble when it's a time to work on the engine. The Baba 30 performs surprisingly well under power, at least in forward, with owners mentioning 6 knots as comfortable cruising speed. The fuel tank holds 40 gallons. If it's the original tank, it is baffled and has a large inspection plate, allowing you to peer in and see if the external corrosion has reached the inside of the tank.
The Baba 30 won't win many races but it will carry you across an ocean safely and, considering it's just 30 feet, in relative comfort. The boat is at its best on a reach, and can carry full sail up to around 20 knots. Sail handling depends on how the boat is set up. If you have a genoa forward, you'll use the staysail less than if you are using the working yankee. Most Baba 30 owners seem to have opted for furling genoas. By the way, a partially furled genoa raises the center of effort making them quasi-yankee-like. On a deep reach, some owners prefer a reacher, others a cruising spinnaker, and others a poled out genoa. For an ocean crossing I'd opt for a lightweight reacher for light winds and a robust genoa that can ride poled out day and after day withstanding stiff trade winds and putting miles below the keel.
Sailing upwind, the Baba 30 becomes more efficient as the wind pipes up. Owners report that it becomes necessary to reef the main when the wind pipes up to 20 knots when working headsails are flying, and a bit earlier with a genoa. The main is best trimmed with the traveler when sailing to weather, to balance the natural weather helm. In heavy air, the Baba 30 handles well with a double-reefed main and staysail. The hull shape is well suited for heaving-to and this should be your first option when things get ugly.
The Baba 30 is a capable, high-quality cruising boat. Yes, it's on the small side, but that also makes it affordable. You can find a nice Baba 30 in the $60,000 range, and when you compare other cruising boats available for the same dollars the value becomes apparent. Plus, it's nice to have other sailors ooh and ahh every time you pull into a new harbor.
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The Baba 30 is a 29.75ft cutter designed by Robert Perry and built in fiberglass by Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. between 1976 and 1986.
170 units have been built..
The Baba 30 is a heavy sailboat which is slightly under powered. It is very stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a bluewater cruising boat. The fuel capacity is originally small. There is a short water supply range.
Baba 30 for sale elsewhere on the web:
Main features
| Model | Baba 30 | ||
| Length | 29.75 ft | ||
| Beam | 10.25 ft | ||
| Draft | 4.75 ft | ||
| Country | Taiwan (Asia) | ||
| Estimated price | $ 0 | ?? |
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| Sail area / displ. | 15.03 | ||
| Ballast / displ. | 40 % | ||
| Displ. / length | 379.46 | ||
| Comfort ratio | 33.38 | ||
| Capsize | 1.77 |
| Hull type | Monohull long keel | ||
| Construction | Fiberglass | ||
| Waterline length | 24.50 ft | ||
| Maximum draft | 4.75 ft | ||
| Displacement | 12500 lbs | ||
| Ballast | 5000 lbs | ||
| Hull speed | 6.63 knots |
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| Rigging | Cutter | ||
| Sail area (100%) | 504 sq.ft | ||
| Air draft | 0 ft | ?? | |
| Sail area fore | 294.28 sq.ft | ||
| Sail area main | 210 sq.ft | ||
| I | 39.50 ft | ||
| J | 14.90 ft | ||
| P | 35 ft | ||
| E | 12 ft |
| Nb engines | 1 | ||
| Total power | 23 HP | ||
| Fuel capacity | 35 gals |
Accommodations
| Water capacity | 80 gals | ||
| Headroom | 0 ft | ||
| Nb of cabins | 0 | ||
| Nb of berths | 0 | ||
| Nb heads | 0 |
Builder data
| Builder | Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. | ||
| Designer | Robert Perry | ||
| First built | 1976 | ||
| Last built | 1986 | ||
| Number built | 170 |
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- Sailboat Guide
1977 Baba 30
- Description
Seller's Description
1977 Ta Shing Baba 30 Robert Perry, the designer of this fine yacht, is one of the best-known and most prolific American designers and has become one of the leaders of performance oriented cruising yachts. Built by Ta Shing, the Baba 30 was the first boat they built. Ta Shing was a builder of local fishing boats and has become one of the worlds finest yacht builders. The Baba 30 is a cutter rig with a canoe stern and bow sprit. Considered a great offshore boat for the solo skipper, she sleeps 4 in a lush double cabin with 64 headroom. Laden with teak, the traditionalist loves this boat and they love the increased displacement for offshore conditions.
A true blue water cruiser, capable of world voyaging. Ochento is rugged and well equipped. We are selling because of health and she is ready for someone to love her as much as we have.
Rig and Sails
Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.
The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.
Classic hull speed formula:
Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL
Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL
Sail Area / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.
SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
- SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
- D : Displacement in pounds.
Ballast / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.
Ballast / Displacement * 100
Displacement / Length Ratio
A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.
D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
- LWL: Waterline length in feet
Comfort Ratio
This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.
Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
- LOA: Length overall in feet
- Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet
Capsize Screening Formula
This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.
CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)
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Baba 30 Sailboat
Description.
The Baba 30 is a Robert Perry designed, cutter rigged, heavy displacement blue water cruising sailboat. With a canoe stern and cut away full keel she is described by Blue Water Sailing as “serious go-anywhere boat”
Traditionally styled beautiful boat above and below deck. Teak decks replaced with glass Overall condition of boat is excellent.
SAILS & RIGGING:
All sails are cruising weight in good or very good condition..
Front sail is yankee cut on a harken roller furler. Roller furler new 2021. Staysail is a hank on sail and is currently rigged for self tending. Mainsail has two reef points. Jiffy reefing system and lazyjacks installed 2021. Storm jib, 48 sq ft, and trysail, 67 sq ft, in excellent condition.
Mast and boom are aluminum. Standing rigging is stainless steel wire with sta-lock fittings. These and chain plates new 2019. Most running rigging lines and all halyard lines new 2021.
DECK AND COCKPIT:
Deck is fiberglass, installed 2019. Deck non-skid paint is kiwi grip cream 2019. Depth gauge and compass on binnacle. Barient winches for all sails.
Stainless framed sunbrella bimini and dodger. Lateral sunbrella panels on full cockpit enclosure.
Cockpit cushions, new 2019.
Two stainless steel mounted Siemans solar panels of 75 watts each mounted over bimini.
Moniter stainless steel windvane mounted on stern. Windvane needs new bushing and lines to wheel installed; parts are on boat.
Navico WP 5000 wheelpilot with H 5000 hand programmer.
Stainless steel crane and rail mounted starboard plate on guard rail for dinghy motor lift and storage, new 2020.
Deck shower, hot and cold.
Bottom coated with west system epoxy and painted with petit SR Trinidad paint, 2019
25 lb CQR, mounted on bowsprit roller, with 20 ft of chain and 200 ft of rode.
35 lb CQR, mounted on bowsprit roller, with 100 ft of chain and 100 ft road, this new in 2021.
Anchor wash out.
Simpson and Lawrence double action windless
Yanmar, 3 cylinder, 27.3 HP model 3GM30 diesel, carefully maintained, and runs perfectly. Generator new 2022.
Under power, cruising speed is approximately 5.5 knots at 2,400 rpm; fuel consumption at is approximately 1/3 to 1/2 gal/hr.
Archilles model HB-300FX, 9’10” hypalon fabric, fiberglass bottomed dinghy, new 2020. Yamaha, model F4, 4 HP, 4 stroke, outboard motor, refurbished 2021.
Two, 40 gallon each, water tanks.
Fuel tank with fuel gauge, 45 gallons, new 2019.
Holding tank with y-valve.
Propane 2 burner stainless steel range with oven. Top loading refrigerator with Adler Barbour cold machine. Double stainless steel sink with covers, faucet new 2021. Hot water heater.
Navigation station equipment:
Furuno model GP-1971F chart plotter, 2020, with C-map navigation charts for entire east coast to Cuba and for entire Caribbean Sea including Central America.
Furuno model FM-4800 VHF radiotelephone with GPS, AIS receiver, and automatic DSC calling NMEA 0183 and NMEA 2000 networking 2020.
Em-trak B954 Class B Transreciever with integrated splitter, WiFi and bluetooth. High 5 W transmission.. NMEA 0185 and NMEA 2000 networking 2021.
Digital Yatch NMEA2000 backbone cable interface 2021.
Battery charge monitor for 2-deep cycle batteries with battery selector switch. Extra deep cycle battery on boat.
Port and starboard seating with teak folding leaf table. Cushions new 2019. 24” flat screen TV, mounted. 6’3” headroom throughout. Teak and holly sole. Butterfly hatch. Full sized head with sink and hot water shower.Large V-berth with teak storage cabinets and hatch.
Two installed automatic pumps. One large capacity, built in, manual pump
MISCELLANEOUS:
Spare parts ….
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COMMENTS
BABA 30. Save to Favorites . Beta Marine. BOTH. US IMPERIAL. METRIC. Sailboat Specifications Definitions Hull Type: Long Keel: Rigging Type: Cutter: LOA: 29.75 ft / 9.07 m ... First (30) boats were built by Shing Sheng Ltd. Later built by Ta Shing? Delivered with Westerbeke, Yanmar, and others. aka FLYING DUTCHMAN BABA 30 (1981).
The Baba 30 continues to have one of the highest resale values in the marketplace. Twenty-year-old boats sell for $55,000 to $60,000; newer models for $60,000 to $65,000. Because Flying Dutchman had dealers on both coasts, the Gulf of Mexico, Great Lakes and Canada, it is possible to find used boats in most areas.
Boats Group does not guarantee the accuracy of conversion rates and rates may differ than those provided by financial institutions at the time of transaction. Baba 30 By Condition. Used Baba 30 1 listing. Find Baba 30 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Baba boats to choose from.
The baba is a classic looking modern yacht. The Baba 30 was the smallest craft in the range but very popular, with some 170 having been built. They were built as sturdy vessels suitable for making long offshore and ocean passages needing only a couple of people to crew the boat. Although capable of sleeping 5 people they are generally sailed by ...
Baba 30 is a 34′ 6″ / 10.5 m monohull sailboat designed by Robert Perry and built by Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. between 1976 and 1986. Great choice! Your favorites are temporarily saved for this session.
The Baba 30 Boat Review. I have a friend who, at the age of 35, after sailing a 27-footer to Bermuda, declared that he would never again sail a boat offshore that was shorter in length than his age. This made sense at the time, but more than 20 years later, may not be practical. Despite her size, the Baba 30 is a legitimate go-anywhere ...
Baba 30. Baba 30. 2008 July 27. By John Kretschmer. A bluewater beauty that was built to last. T he Baba 30 is a small but serious cruising boat. And it certainly looks the part with a shapely canoe stern, springy sheerline and proud bowsprit. The Baba 30 pedigree arcs through Colin Archer's converted lifeboats of the 19th century to the famed ...
30'. '. '. California. $45,000. Description: This is beautiful restored 1978 BABA 30 from Robert Perry design a sturdy vessel suitable for making long offshore and ocean passages. Restoration was completed in late 2020 from brand new Yanmar diesel 30hp engine with only 120 hrs, new fuel tank, new upholstery, electrical, solar panel, electronic ...
1983 Baba 30. US$48,500. SEA Marine | Hansville, Washington. <. 1. >. * Price displayed is based on today's currency conversion rate of the listed sales price. Boats Group does not guarantee the accuracy of conversion rates and rates may differ than those provided by financial institutions at the time of transaction. Baba 30' By Condition.
The Baba 30 is a 29.75ft cutter designed by Robert Perry and built in fiberglass by Ta Shing Yacht Building Ltd. between 1976 and 1986. 170 units have been built. The Baba 30 is a heavy sailboat which is slightly under powered. It is very stable / stiff and has an excellent righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a bluewater ...
Baba 30 preowned sailboats for sale by owner. Baba 30 used sailboats for sale by owner.
Baba boats for sale on YachtWorld are available for a swath of prices from $7,500 on the more modest side, with costs up to $144,000 for the most advanced and biggest yachts. What Baba model is the best? Some of the most iconic Baba models now listed include: 40, 30, 35 and Tashiba 40. Baba models are available through yacht brokers, dealers ...
1977 Baba 30. Seattle, WA, US. Listed Sep 27. Expired. $17,500 USD. Seller's Description. 1977 Ta Shing Baba 30 Robert Perry, the designer of this fine yacht, is one of the best-known and most prolific American designers and has become one of the leaders of performance oriented cruising yachts. Built by Ta Shing, the Baba 30 was the first boat ...
The Baba 30 is a Robert Perry designed, cutter rigged, heavy displacement blue water cruising sailboat. With a canoe stern and cut away full keel she is described by Blue Water Sailing as "serious go-anywhere boat". Traditionally styled beautiful boat above and below deck. Teak decks replaced with glass Overall condition of boat is excellent.
1981. 30'. 10.'. 4.9'. Florida. $47,500. Description: The Baba 30 is a Robert Perry designed, cutter rigged, heavy displacement blue water cruising sailboat. With a canoe stern and cut away full keel she is described by Blue Water Sailing as serious go-anywhere boat.
Baba 30 boats for sale 1 Boats Available. Currency $ - USD - US Dollar Sort Sort Order List View Gallery View Submit. Advertisement. Save This Boat. Baba 30 . St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. 1981. $7,500 Seller Harbor Shoppers 59. Contact (800) 484-0367. ×. Advertisement. Request Information. Contact Seller X * We weren't able to post your ...
Find Ta Shing Baba 30 boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Ta Shing boats to choose from. ... 1977 Ta Shing Baba 30. US$35,000. ↓ Price Drop. La Paz Yacht Sales | La Paz, Mexico. Request Info; Sponsored Boats | related to your search. 2023 Sea Hunt Escape 250. US$99,950. Bluewater Yacht ...
Full Specs. FULL SPECS. A classic Baba 30 is for sale in Langkawi, Malaysia! A rare find in this part of the world, she is vessel of charm, character and known sailing ability. This vessel has had only two owners since new. She has a long pedigree that places her among the best sailing crafts available in her size.
Explore the reliable and enduring Baba 30 sailboats available at Harbor Shoppers in the Virgin Islands. These vessels, with over 20 years of experience and many successful voyages, are constructed with durable fiberglass cloth and polyester resin. With proper care, this vessel can become an excellent blue water sailing boat once again.
1981 Baba 30. US$8,500. Harbor Shoppers | St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Request Info. <. 1. >. * Price displayed is based on today's currency conversion rate of the listed sales price. Boats Group does not guarantee the accuracy of conversion rates and rates may differ than those provided by financial institutions at the time of transaction.
Baba-Panda-Tashiba Sailboat Website For sailors interested in Baba, Panda, and Tashiba sailboats. Menu Skip to content About; Activity; ... Search for: Baba 30. Drawing; Pictures; Standard Features and Equipment; 2 thoughts on " Baba 30 " Philip says: September 11, 2022 at 3:43 am. How often do you see Baba 30s come up for sale under 20k ...
Find Sail Baba boats for sale in your area & across the world on YachtWorld. Offering the best selection of Baba boats to choose from. ... 1981 Baba 30. US$7,500. ↓ Price Drop. Harbor Shoppers | St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands. Request Info; Sponsored Boats | related to your search. 2002 PDQ 32 Passage Maker. US$224,900.
Explore the reliable and enduring Baba 30 sailboats available at Harbor Shoppers in the Virgin Islands. These vessels, with over 20 years of experience and many successful voyages, are constructed with durable fiberglass cloth and polyester resin. With proper care, this vessel can become an excellent blue water sailing boat once again. ...