I'm in the market for a J30 and I'd like some feedback on the two different designs. I understand the deck layout is different, but is the hull quality different? Is the 1979-1983 more prone to blistering? Any other opinions or insights would be appreciated.

doesnt make any difference if the boat is 25 years old or 22 years old

all depends on the care, the storage over the winter and a lot of other factors.

New boat has a bigger cockpit.... one less quarterberth and bigger kitchen ..and some kind of an excuse for a coaming ( which some people do NOT like.......
otherwise its the same, except to pay 10 grand more.....

much more important is to find a good solid boat and these can be had in any years

Thor

This forum offers plenty of insight into the potential problems with J/30's. Before you purchase a J/30 you might serve yourself well by reviewing the topics first. Then survey any potential boats for the problems that have been identified by existing J/30 owners.
I own a 1986 vintage J/30 which I bought new. I have given this boat plenty of TLC over the years. For me, this forum has identified the areas to deal with and has helped me to keep a look out for trouble. Thus my boat has had few problems except for bottom blistering.


[This message has been edited by Russ Atkinson (edited 11-14-2005).]