Moody 30- Opinions and alternatives ?

[blackdogsailing]

Hello everyone,
I went with some good friends of mine to look at a 1977 Moody 30 they are thinking of buying. It ticked all thier boxes (see below) and seemed an ok boat. I was a bit concerned about the engine, an original Volvo.
Anyone any experience with these boats and what alternatives are there ?
The boast must have wheel steering, a good size saloon where 4 preople can sit comfortably, and a safe cockpit. Sailing performance is secondary, having said that they do enjoy the sailing so don't want a 'tub'.
Any comments/suggestions very welcome.
Chris

 

[Tranona]

Most of its contemporary competitors did not have wheel steering. That was one of its selling points - it was a 33 with a bit chopped off the back. It is much wider beam than most 30 footers so more space. The old Volvo will always be an issue on boats that age. Has a good sailing reputation despite its somewhat awkward looks, product of a top designer in his time.

 

[Rossynant]

Well, there were some with wheels - but in this size wheel is not much needed, unless a heavy powerfull boat. Wheel steering may be installed in most others anyway, should one want it; some were fitted with wheels, so can be found.

If it's about safe, protected cockpit with wheel - you will not find safer than two now for sale (in sail-away state, happen to know myself) - Deep Seadog and Barbary Ketch. Or take for instance Benetteau Evasion. All rather different from Moody... but saloon spacious too. In similar prices, 15-20k.

PS why would I forget to advertise Contests? In case a fast, racing (but still quality and comfort) is sought. With wheel http://conyplexcontest33forsale.blogspot.com/

 

[Archiee]

Moody 30, cruiser class, fin keel. Well cared for and meticulously maintained.

 

[Jim@sea]

I bought a 1977 Moody 30 Brand New. I wish I had it now. (Still got the original invoice as a memento) This had wheel steering. The Volvo engine was great until I let a boatyard get their hands on it. I part exchanged the Moody 30 for a Brand New Princess 33. Which after taking delivery went back as "Not of being of merchantable quality" and "Not as described" so I got my money back. And as they had not sold the Moody 30 which I had put in PX I got the Moody 30 back. Then I found that after I Part Exchanged the Moody they had not "Winterised" the engine and the block had a 6" crack.
So if anyone asked me what the Moody was like I would say "Perfect" but check the block for frost damage,

PS. I tried one with a tiller. The wheel was perfect, just the right size and in 1977 Auto pilots were in their infancy and I got a Autohelm, attached it to the steering wheel turned West out of Holyhead harbout, switched it on and 13 hours later, with a flat calm sea arrived at S Ireland. Brilliant. I can see the trip now after 36 years. Good boats do that to you.