We’ve been eyeing these rugged Finnish Targa boats for a few months since the local dealer Cardinal Yacht Sales took on the line. The new Targa 30.1 is one of the builder’s touted designs.
The 30.1 is a lot of boat in a modest package, with a LOA of 33’ 1” and a generous beam of 10’ 7”. Much of that beam is taken up by the signature Targa deck layout, with deep-set, gigantic walkways on both port and starboard that lead between an open cockpit with swim step aft and a large foredeck forward. Interestingly, wraparound group seating is in the foredeck, not the cockpit at the stern.
The cockpit features bench-style seating near the stern and base of the open tophouse, where a humble two-step ladder leads one to the seating and helm above. The cockpit floor opens up to access the twin Volvo Penta inboard diesel engines (with options). The 30.1 has a handsome look to it, despite the length-to-beam ratio that may sound boxy on paper.
The novel quirks of the exterior are only magnified in the interior, in a good way. Cabin access from both starboard and port doors, unlike the classic aft entrance from the cockpit, leads right into the nav station, chart table, galley, and entrance to the v-berth (with two berths within).
That’s right, the Finns have somehow combined all these things in a compact, and somehow perfectly functional and good-looking, layout. Going aft, one passes the dinette (with foldable table and convertible seats) and then ends up in the aft cabin, where two more berths and an enclosed head are located.
A written description doesn’t give all the clever, unorthodox, and refreshing tweaks of the Targa 30.1 justice. If interested, you can can find out more info and pricing details at cardinalyachtsales.com.
