Ohlson 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Ohlson 29 was in production from 1970 to 1975, primarily built by Artekno OY in Finland. Einar Ohlson, a prolific designer, developed several models in this size range to meet the growing demand for recreational sailboats. Artekno OY, a company with a strong reputation for producing durable and well-engineered fiberglass vessels, applied its expertise to the Ohlson 29, aligning with their philosophy of creating practical boats suitable for both cruising and occasional racing.

During its production run, the design saw some evolution. Notably, the rights to the design were acquired by Winga Marin in 1975, leading to a modified version known as the Winga 29, which subsequently achieved greater popularity. This transition suggests a continuous refinement of the original Ohlson 29 concept, with variations possibly including different keel designs as indicated by existing drawings.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of just under 30 feet and a waterline length of 24 feet, the Ohlson 29 is characterized by a moderate-to-heavy displacement, reflected in its Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 229. This suggests a solid, sea-kindly vessel designed for comfortable passage making rather than high-performance racing. Its Sail Area to Displacement ratio of around 15.7 indicates a boat that, while capable, is somewhat underpowered in very light air but will remain manageable as the wind builds.

Despite a ballast-to-displacement ratio of roughly 29.5%, the Ohlson 29 is described as reasonably stable and stiff, possessing good righting capability. This suggests that Einar Ohlson's hull form provided inherent stability, allowing the boat to stand up to its rig well. The masthead sloop rig offers simplicity and efficient use of sail area, contributing to its ease of handling. Owners typically find the Ohlson 29 to be a well-balanced and predictable boat, making it suitable for both experienced sailors and those looking for a forgiving platform.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Ohlson 29, typical for boats of its era and size, emphasizes functionality over expansive luxury. While specific details on maximum headroom are not consistently documented in available specifications, boats of this type generally offered standing headroom in the main salon for average-height individuals, though this can vary by specific model and year.

The layout typically features a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a salon with settees that may convert into berths, and a galley area. Storage is usually adequate for coastal cruising, distributed throughout the cabin in lockers and under berths. Fresh water capacity is approximately 7 gallons. Given the era of its construction, the interior finish likely featured a combination of fiberglass liners with wood trim, offering a durable yet practical living space. Owners often personalize and update the interiors of these classic vessels, leading to variations in specific finishes and amenities over time.