Show 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

Production of the Barberis Show 29 commenced in 1975 and continued until 1988. During this period, Cantieri Barberis, under the direction of Giancarlo Barberis, was at its zenith, renowned for exporting "Italian naval art" to the international market. The shipyard embraced fiberglass as its primary construction material, a strategic move that allowed for efficient production while maintaining high standards of design and finish.

The Show 29 was conceived as an IOR 1/2 ton racer/cruiser, reflecting the competitive spirit of the era while still providing comfortable accommodations for overnight stays. Designed by Alain Jezequel, the yacht's lines are indicative of the collaborative design philosophy at Barberis, which often blended performance characteristics with aesthetic appeal. Over its production run, an updated version of the Show 29 appeared in the mid-1980s, featuring a deeper keel, an altered rudder, and an extended forward coachroof, likely aimed at refining its performance and interior volume.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Barberis Show 29's design ratios provide insight into its on-water demeanor. With a Sail Area to Displacement Ratio (SA/D) of 18.64, the Show 29 is classified as a performance-oriented cruiser, suggesting good responsiveness and the ability to perform well in lighter air conditions. This relatively high ratio indicates that the boat carries ample sail power for its displacement.

Its Ballast to Displacement Ratio (Bal/D) of 37.93% points to a respectable level of stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a good breeze and maintain its course with confidence. The yacht features a fin keel and a spade rudder, a combination typically found in performance designs, offering good control and maneuverability. The Displacement to Length Ratio (Disp/LWL) of 234.57 suggests a moderate displacement for its waterline length, indicating a solid yet not overly heavy vessel that can offer a comfortable motion in a seaway while still being capable of good speeds. These attributes, combined with a hull speed of 6.43 knots, paint a picture of a boat that is both engaging to sail and capable of respectable passage times.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its performance aspirations and compact overall length of just over 29 feet, the Barberis Show 29 offers a functional interior designed for cruising comfort. Owners can typically expect a layout featuring a single forward cabin, often configured as a V-berth, providing sleeping arrangements. A salon area serves as the main living space, with settees that may convert to additional berths, contributing to its reported capacity of up to five berths.

The interior usually includes a marine head and a galley, which, while compact, is equipped for basic meal preparation, often with a fridge. Descriptions frequently mention "spacious interiors" for a boat of its size, with features like recent cushions enhancing comfort. The quality of finish, typical of Barberis yachts from its golden age, often includes well-crafted wood trim and robust fiberglass construction, contributing to a durable and inviting living space.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Barberis Show 29 frequently praise its solid construction and engaging sailing characteristics. The enduring quality of Barberis builds from the 1970s and 1980s means these boats remain sought-after classics, appreciated for their timeless design and robust build. Many users laud the boat's handling, describing it as responsive and well-balanced, particularly in varying conditions. Feedback from charter experiences, though limited, suggests a positive overall impression, with the boat performing as described and owners being helpful. The continued presence of Show 29 models in the used boat market and their popularity among enthusiasts are strong indicators of their lasting appeal and the satisfaction they provide to their owners.