Columbia 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Columbia 29's production ran from 1961 to 1965, emerging during a transformative period for sailboat manufacturing as fiberglass began to supplant traditional wooden construction. The project, designated S&S #1501, was adopted by Glas Laminates (later Columbia Yachts) from a previously stalled venture, quickly becoming one of their signature models. Its success was instrumental in the company officially adopting "Columbia Yachts" as its corporate name in 1962.

Columbia Yachts, under the guidance of Richard "Dick" Valdes, was an early pioneer in leveraging fiberglass for mass production, aiming to deliver classic designs with comfortable interiors and what were considered luxurious bluewater capabilities for the era. The collaboration with Sparkman & Stephens, known for their emphasis on professional design, lent the Columbia 29 a reputation for good performance and seaworthiness. Olin Stephens, in particular, was known for his thoughtful approach to yacht design, often documenting his most important works.

During its production run, the Columbia 29 saw a few significant variations. In 1963, a raised deck version was introduced, known as the Columbia 29 Defender, which offered more interior room. Following this, a styling change occurred in 1965, bringing a new, more streamlined deck and coach roof, which marked the introduction of the Columbia 29 MkII. The MkII continued production until 1969.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Columbia 29 is characterized by its traditional long keel and masthead sloop rig, a configuration that contributes to its reputation for stability and comfortable motion. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 16.06, the Columbia 29 offers moderate performance, suggesting it is a capable all-around performer rather than a dedicated light-air racer. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 42.1% indicates a stiff and stable boat, well-equipped to stand up to a good breeze and handle various sea states with confidence. Furthermore, a displacement to length ratio of approximately 290 suggests she is a heavier, more traditional cruiser, emphasizing seaworthiness and a solid feel over nimble, light-displacement performance.

Owners and reviewers frequently describe the Columbia 29 as sailing well, being safe, and reliable in diverse conditions, including open sea voyages. Its hull form and long keel contribute to a steady helm and predictable tracking, making it a forgiving boat for cruising. These characteristics align with the Sparkman & Stephens design philosophy of producing well-engineered yachts capable of offshore passages and comfortable cruising.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures for the original Columbia 29 MkI are not readily available in the provided data, the design priorities of Columbia Yachts during this era focused on creating comfortable interiors suitable for cruising. The Columbia 29, including its variations like the Defender with its raised deck, offered interior layouts considered rational and practical for a boat of its size.

Typical accommodations for a vessel of this type and era would include a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a compact galley. Interior finishes likely featured a combination of fiberglass liners with wood trim, reflecting the common practices of early fiberglass production yachts. While not designed for expansive living, the Columbia 29's interior would provide adequate space and storage for coastal cruising or extended weekends, emphasizing functionality and robustness for its intended purpose.

Owner's Perspectives

The Columbia 29 has garnered a loyal following among sailors, often praised for its durability and seaworthiness. Owners frequently highlight the boat's solid construction and its ability to handle challenging conditions, providing a sense of security on the water. Many consider the Columbia 29 a durable and affordable yacht that offers good sailing characteristics.

While specific recurring problems are not widely documented, the general consensus among owners points to a robust and reliable vessel for its age. The enduring affection for the Columbia 29 within the sailing community underscores its successful blend of Sparkman & Stephens design expertise and Columbia Yachts' pioneering fiberglass construction.