Bådmagasinet magazine reviewed the Omega 30A in September 2015.
Easy, spacious, and fast family boat
The Omega 30 is an excellent choice for the family’s first boat, as it is a good-sailing and fast boat built to high quality. It retains its resale value reasonably well and is currently available from 150,000 DKK to just under 300,000 DKK.
Abstract
The Omega 30, designed by Ron Holland in 1983 for Swedish Familjebåtar AB, remains a highly regarded family cruiser and small touring boat thanks to its timeless design, excellent sailing performance, and robust construction. It is fast, well-balanced, and highly maneuverable, making it suitable for both novice and experienced sailors. The boat was innovative for its time, featuring a self-tacking jib and practical layout, with an interior optimized for comfort, including a semi-open aft cabin that children particularly enjoy. Owners appreciate its forgiving handling upwind when sailed slightly lower than maximum height, as well as a simple and reliable rig that is easy to manage for cruising.
Omega 30s are built to high standards, though some weaknesses exist. Original Isomat masts with a single spreader have been prone to breakage, and the sliding hatch design can allow water ingress without a proper cover. Despite its age, well-maintained examples remain comfortable and well-equipped, with modern engines, updated sails, and practical cockpit and cabin amenities. Overall, the Omega 30 is a durable, fast, and family-friendly cruiser with only minor vulnerabilities, particularly in its original rig and hatch design.
Bådmagasinet did a short comparison of the Omega 30, Hanse 320 and Bianca Lido in October 2011, titled Three suggestions for the first boat
Abstract
The Omega 30, designed by Ron Holland in 1982, is a well-balanced, fast, and reliable family cruiser built to high Scandinavian standards. Easy to handle and responsive on the helm, it suits both beginners and sailors with racing ambitions. Around 300 boats were built between 1983 and 1987, most at the renowned Vindö yard, known for its craftsmanship and mahogany-finished yachts. Two interior versions exist: the A-model with an aft cabin accessible from the cockpit, and the later S-model with a larger saloon and modern longitudinal galley. Typical examples are well-equipped and retain their value well. The boat’s only real weaknesses lie in its age and the defunct original builder, but its quality, handling, and timeless design keep it a sought-after classic cruiser.
Owner Testimonials published in the “Min Bat” (my boat) category of a Swedish sailing magazine.
Abstract
Owners of the Omega 30 praise its blend of performance, comfort, and versatility. The boat sails well on all points and in varied winds, with a self-tacking jib simplifying handling and trim options allowing fine-tuning. The spacious cockpit, practical cabin layout, and functional galley make it comfortable for families or small crews, though some note storage could be improved. Build quality is reliable, with minimal maintenance issues. Overall, the Omega 30 is valued as a well-proportioned, all-round yacht suitable for cruising, racing, or extended family sailing.