Compass 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Compass 29's creation is intertwined with its slightly smaller sibling, the Compass 28. Introduced in 1974, the 29 was developed from the hull of the Compass 28, featuring increased freeboard, a revised deck layout, and a more spacious interior. Despite being intended as a replacement for the 28, the more traditional aesthetics of the earlier model led Compass Yachts to produce both boats concurrently for a period.

Compass Yachts, co-founded by Don Lees and Gunther Heuchmer, adopted fiberglass as a revolutionary material for production yachts, aligning with a global trend towards more durable, lower-maintenance vessels. The company's design philosophy, deeply influenced by Heuchmer and Lees, focused on creating practical, robust, and affordable cruising yachts. This ethos is evident in the Compass 29's construction, which utilized heavily hand-laid fiberglass, contributing to its renowned structural integrity and suitability for the often challenging conditions found in Australian and New Zealand waters.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 12.26, the Compass 29 leans towards being a heavier displacement cruiser, suggesting a steady and comfortable motion in a seaway rather than exhilarating light-air performance. Its substantial ballast-to-displacement ratio, reported at around 47.89%, indicates excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up well to a breeze. The displacement-to-length ratio, calculated at roughly 306.6, further classifies it as a moderately heavy cruiser, reinforcing its role as a sturdy and seaworthy vessel.

While generally considered a well-built and seaworthy boat, some owners have noted that the Compass 29 may suffer from considerable weather helm and can be less adept at pointing close to the wind. However, others describe a well-balanced helm, indicating that setup and sail trim can significantly influence its handling characteristics. The design, featuring a more traditional cruising keel, is geared towards simplified cruising and offers capabilities for twilight racing, emphasizing ease of use and safety for its intended purpose.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Compass 29 is typically described as functional and surprisingly spacious for a boat of its size, often maintaining a classic layout. While specific headroom figures are not readily available in the provided data, reviews suggest the interior feels practical and well-arranged. Many Compass 29s feature a conventional layout that often includes a V-berth forward, a head compartment, a salon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley, and potentially a quarter berth. The finish quality generally reflects the builder's focus on robust, no-frills cruising, with an emphasis on durability over luxury, often featuring classic wood trim combined with fiberglass surfaces. Owners have praised the well-laid-out interiors and the boat's ability to offer functional amenities within its compact package.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Compass 29 consistently laud its solid construction and robust build, often citing the heavily hand-laid fiberglass hull for its longevity and resistance to common issues like osmosis. Many appreciate the boat's seaworthy nature and its ability to handle various conditions, making it a trusted companion for inshore and coastal cruising. The strong owner community surrounding Compass yachts speaks to the enduring quality and practical appeal of these vessels, providing a valuable resource for maintenance and shared experiences.

However, some common themes emerge regarding potential challenges. A frequently mentioned characteristic is the boat's tendency for weather helm and its limited performance when sailing directly into the wind. Another recurring issue noted by some owners involves engine overheating, suggesting that attention to the propulsion system is a common maintenance point. Despite these considerations, the collective sentiment is generally positive, with owners valuing the Compass 29 as a reliable, affordable, and capable cruiser that offers good value in the second-hand market.