San Juan 29 Information, Review, Specs

The lineage of the San Juan 29 began in 1977 with the introduction of the San Juan 28, a "large racer-cruiser" designed by Don Clark of the Clark Boat Company. Clark Boat Company, founded by Bob Clark, was celebrated for producing "well made, easily sailable boats that provided a solid value for the family sailor," a philosophy that clearly influenced the San Juan 28/29. The company was known for its robust hand-laid fiberglass construction, ensuring durable hulls.

In the spring of 1984, the Clark Boat Company was sold to San Juan Manufacturing. It was at this point that the San Juan 28 became known as the San Juan 29, continuing production with essentially the same design. Don Clark, having also designed the popular San Juan 21, applied his performance-oriented approach to the 28/29, aiming for a boat that could perform well while offering cruising amenities., 2] There is no indication of significant variations like MkI or MkII during its production run, as the transition from 28 to 29 largely represented a change in manufacturer and name rather than a major redesign.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The San Juan 29 exhibits a commendable blend of speed and stability, making it a capable performer in various conditions. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/D) of approximately 18.24, the boat is generally considered to have good light-air performance, suggesting it can move well in lighter breezes, a characteristic of performance-oriented cruiser-racers. Its high ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of 0.50 indicates exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing it to stand up to a significant amount of wind and providing a comfortable motion in a seaway.

The displacement to length ratio (D/L) of approximately 248.38 places the San Juan 29 in the moderate weight category, further reinforcing its status as a performance cruiser/racer. Owners consistently describe the San Juan 28 (and by extension, the 29) as a "good performer" that is "very well balanced and tracks very well upwind," particularly in moderate winds of 5-15 knots with a full main and a 120% headsail. While it excels going upwind, some owners note that it "can be a handful downwind with a spinnaker," suggesting it requires active steering in those conditions. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration further enhance its maneuverability.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the San Juan 29 is designed to offer comfortable, if compact, accommodations typical of a performance-oriented cruiser of its size and era. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout is generally defined by a white liner accented by a teak-and-holly sole, providing a classic and durable finish.

Drawing from typical arrangements for sailboats of this length, the San Juan 29 likely features a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley area, and a navigation station. A private head compartment would generally be located opposite the galley or forward. Storage space is usually well-integrated throughout the cabin for cruising gear and provisions. Given its design as a racer-cruiser, the interior would balance functionality for offshore or extended sailing with the need for comfort at anchor.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the San Juan 29, and its closely related predecessor the San Juan 28, frequently laud the boat for its "solid construction" and dependable sailing characteristics. Many appreciate its ability to perform well in a variety of conditions, particularly its upwind prowess and balanced helm. The robust fiberglass hull, a hallmark of Clark Boat Company construction, means that few owners report issues with blistering.

However, like many boats of its vintage, recurring maintenance is a common theme among owners. A "common complaint" among current owners is "an ongoing need for inspection," suggesting that diligent upkeep of older systems and fittings is necessary. Some owners of the San Juan 28 have noted that original engines, such as the Atomic 4, are reliable if well-maintained, though repowering considerations are sometimes discussed for older vessels without current power plants. The overall consensus points to a durable and enjoyable sailboat that continues to offer excellent value on the used boat market, supported by active owner communities.