Martin 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The genesis of the Martin 29 in 1972 marked Cooper Enterprises' foray into building its own designs, moving beyond its initial focus on licensed American models like the Catalina series. Designed by Don Martin, the boat was specifically crafted to compete in the then-popular IOR Half Ton class, a highly competitive racing category that influenced many designs of the era. Cooper Yachts, under Forbes Cooper's leadership, was known for producing well-regarded vessels that offered a blend of robust construction and functional layouts, typically aiming for accessibility and popularity within the Canadian market. The Martin 29 reflects this ethos, presenting a boat that, while not intended to be a high-end luxury yacht, provided a solid and capable platform for its target audience. Available information does not suggest significant variations or mark changes during its production run.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 28.58 feet and a waterline length of 22.50 feet, the Martin 29 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat that delivers reasonably good performance. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement ratio of approximately 16.86 suggests it is a competent performer, capable of moving well in a range of wind conditions without being an extreme light-air specialist. The boat's Ballast to Displacement ratio, at an impressive 0.403 (or just over 40%), indicates a high degree of stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a good breeze and maintain a more comfortable angle of heel. This contributes to a secure and stable feel on the water.

The Displacement to Length ratio, around 273.6, positions the Martin 29 as a moderate-to-heavy displacement vessel for its size. This characteristic typically translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway and good seakeeping abilities, rather than extreme light-weight speed. Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, the Martin 29 is designed for responsive handling and good maneuverability, characteristics valued in both racing and cruising. While generally stable, some analyses suggest it has a lower ultimate righting capability if completely capsized. The Martin 29 features a masthead sloop rig, providing a robust sail plan.

Accommodations and Layout

The Martin 29, with a beam of 9.25 feet, offers a practical interior for a boat of its size and era, though detailed layouts are not extensively documented in available public records. While specific headroom figures are not provided, boats of this class and vintage typically feature a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a small galley, and a compact head compartment. Interior finishes for Cooper Yachts of this period generally emphasized functionality and durability, often utilizing fiberglass with wood trim accents. Storage solutions would be integrated throughout the cabin, catering to the needs of a racer-cruiser intended for weekend trips or short coastal voyages. Ventilation would likely be provided by deck hatches and opening ports, typical of designs from the early 1970s.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Martin 29 generally regard it as a solid, if somewhat utilitarian, vessel. It is often perceived as a "price point boat" from Cooper, indicating good value for its construction quality, though not aspiring to the premium fit and finish of more expensive brands. Anecdotal evidence suggests that many older Martin 29s can be found in relatively decent shape on the used market, often at affordable prices, a testament to their enduring build. As with any boat of its age, owners frequently undertake "improvements" and maintenance to keep them in good condition. The Martin 29 remains a viable option for those seeking a capable and stable sailboat with a racing heritage for coastal cruising or club racing.