Bayfield 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Bayfield 29 emerged during a period when Bayfield Boat Yard Ltd., founded by Ted Gozzard in 1970, was establishing itself as a significant fiberglass sailboat manufacturer. Ted Gozzard's overarching design philosophy for Bayfield yachts emphasized a unique traditional aesthetic, characterized by elements such as long keels, clipper bows, and bowsprits, which gave his boats a "miniature traditional ship" appearance. Crucial to his designs, including the Bayfield 29, was an optimization for cruising, prioritizing more headroom below decks and practical liveability.

During its production run from 1978 to 1983, approximately 350 units of the Bayfield 29 were built. The builder was known for constructing boats that were reportedly heavier and stronger than their design specifications initially called for, contributing to their robust reputation notes]. An unusual feature for a boat of its size, the Bayfield 29 was rigged as a cutter, providing flexible sail-handling options. While there's no indication of distinct "MkI" or "MkII" variations, the model is often associated with its characteristic long bowsprit.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Bayfield 29's design priorities clearly leaned towards comfortable cruising rather than outright speed. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 16.12, she exhibits moderate performance in lighter winds, often described by owners as sailing remarkably well in such conditions. Her Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of around 35.29% indicates a good level of stability, allowing her to stand up to a reasonable breeze, though not making her an exceptionally stiff boat.

The yacht's Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 368.4 signifies a heavy displacement vessel, a characteristic that translates into a comfortable and steady motion, particularly in a seaway. This heavy, full-keel design provides excellent directional stability, which is highly valued for long-distance cruising. While some owners acknowledge that the Bayfield 29 is not a fast boat and may be described as a "slow poke," her handling characteristics are geared towards reliability and ease of management in various conditions, rather than high performance. The relatively shallow draft afforded by her long keel is also frequently cited as an appealing feature, enhancing her versatility for exploring shallower waters.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Bayfield 29 is notably designed to maximize living space, reflecting Ted Gozzard's emphasis on headroom and liveability. Many reviews praise its "brilliant layout" for a boat of its size. Unlike many designs that sacrifice forward space for a traditional V-berth, the Bayfield 29 often reconfigures this area to provide more usable volume.

The standard interior configuration typically includes a functional salon, a galley, and a dedicated head compartment, alongside berths that comfortably accommodate a cruising couple. While the clipper bow might slightly impact the absolute forward interior space, the overall layout is generally well-regarded by owners for its practicality. The finish quality often features a good deal of brightwork, contributing to a classic aesthetic, though some owners note this requires consistent maintenance. Prioritizing interior volume results in a comparatively smaller cockpit, a common design compromise for comfort below decks.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Bayfield 29 consistently highlight its robust construction and seaworthiness as primary strengths. Many praise its comfortable motion in a seaway and good directional stability, making it a reliable choice for extended cruising. The well-thought-out interior layout is frequently lauded for its surprising spaciousness and liveability for a boat under 30 feet, appealing particularly to those seeking a comfortable cruising platform. Its ability to perform remarkably well in light air also garners positive comments.

However, the Bayfield 29's design choices, favoring comfort and stability, mean she is not known for speed, with some owners openly referring to her as "slow" or a "pig". The cockpit is often described as small, a trade-off for the generous interior volume. Another recurring observation by some owners is the considerable amount of brightwork, which, while aesthetically pleasing, demands ongoing maintenance. Despite these points, the Bayfield 29 continues to be a respected and sought-after vessel in the used boat market, reflecting a strong community of owners drawn to its enduring charm and practical nature.