The design goal in creating the Mumm 30 was a state-of-the-art One Design keelboat that would be fast and exciting, yet uncomplicated and economical. We set about the design of the Mumm 30 with a 'clean sheet of paper' in that there are no rating rule driven compromises in performance.

Experience

Our experience in Whitbread 60's and America's Cup boats gave us confidence that incredible light air speed does not necessary dictate large overlapping jibs. Fractional rigs are preferred over masthead for performance and handling, but with no arbitrary rule restrictions, masthead spinnakers will turbo-charge the boat down wind. The symmetrical vs. asymmetrical masthead spinnaker debate is a non-issue. Each has its advantages and place so we have allowed for both, making the Mumm 30 today's most versatile boat. During design conferences, we applied a simple test for complex issues, "will this detail or feature make the boat more fun to sail?" Time and again, we found that the simplest solution was the best one. For example, there are no running backstays. The extra crewman needed for the runners, and the chance of losing the rig if the runners aren't set up properly are eliminated.

The boat has a very high righting moment because high stability means speed upwind and a boat that is easier to get in the groove. In order to achieve high stability with a minimum amount of weight and drag, we have employed a keel reminiscent of our Whitbread 60 designs. A large lead bulb is supported by a cast steel fin which produces a reliable, durable structure with maximum righting moment. High stability also means less need for a lot of people on the rail. The low overlap headsails mean that the winches are tiny and dexterity take precedence over power: smaller crew, and smaller sail budgets!

Simplicity

Simplicity of function comes from elegance of design, but neither comes easily. Meticulous care has been taken in the engineering and construction of every component in the Mumm 30. The rig is simple to use, but is state-of-the-art carbon fibre laminate, tested and refined to suit the boat perfectly. The hull is carefully built of vacuum bagged wet pre-preg epoxy and post cured in an oven with the same materials and processes so well developed in the Mumm 36. The rudder stock is autoclaved carbon fibre: strong, light, and virtually maintenance free. Complex technology is employed intelligently to yield simplicity.

The Mumm 30 has amazed competitors on the race course with its speed in all conditions, but the real test is when sailors actually take the helm. The boat has balance and superb control both upwind and down. It accelerates like a dinghy, but feels like a big boat going upwind in a breeze. The cockpit is a marvel of comfort and efficiency from the innovative folding foot tracks, to the internal sail controls. "Everything is easily at hand, functional and smooth. This sailing machine will be easy for less experienced crews to handle, and will never stop rewarding the most experienced sailor."
Bruce Farr. President, Bruce Farr & Associates Inc.

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