Phobos 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Phobos 29 entered production in 2007, marking a continued expansion of Dalpol Yacht's successful Phobos series. Dalpol Yacht, having transitioned from yacht repair to manufacturing in 2001, established a strong reputation for accessible and well-crafted sailing vessels. The company's manufacturing ethos, which emphasizes practical designs and comfortable cruising capabilities, is evident in the Phobos 29. Designed by Jerzy Pieśniewski, a distinguished yacht designer with whom Dalpol has collaborated extensively, the Phobos 29 was conceived as a versatile cruiser. Pieśniewski's design philosophy for this model aimed to create a stable yacht with a spacious interior and cockpit that could be easily sailed. A notable design feature of the Phobos 29 is its adaptability, being offered with both a swing keel (wing keel option in the provided specifications, often described as a ballast-daggerboard cruiser) and an optional fixed keel, allowing it to cater to both shallow inland sailing and more demanding sea voyages.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Phobos 29, with its design focusing on comfort and ease of handling, demonstrates a balanced performance profile for a cruising yacht of its size. With a sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 18.84, she exhibits good potential for performance in lighter winds, suggesting she can get underway with relative ease. Her ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.334 indicates a moderate level of stiffness, characteristic of a comfortable cruiser designed for stability. This is further supported by a displacement to length ratio of approximately 305.2, categorizing her as a heavier, more traditional cruiser. This weight contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway, prioritizing stability over outright speed. Despite her cruising orientation, the Phobos 29 is reported to achieve speeds of over 7 knots with ease during test sails, affirming her capable performance. Her design, featuring a functional deck and a well-thought-out cockpit layout, ensures the helmsman maintains an unimpeded view and comfortable control, making her an easy yacht to handle.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Phobos 29 is designed for comfort and practicality, aiming to maximize usable space within its approximately 30-foot length. The cabin is typically finished with HPL-faced plywood, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface. The layout generally features a double V-berth in the bow, providing comfortable sleeping quarters forward. A double aft berth offers additional sleeping capacity, making the boat suitable for families or groups. The saloon area typically incorporates a fiberglass module for seating, designed for comfort and ease of maintenance. The galley includes a sink and cooker, along with space for other kitchen essentials, supporting extended stays on board. A dedicated WC cabin with a sink enhances onboard convenience. Owners and charterers often praise the Phobos 29 for its spacious and comfortable interior and cockpit, a testament to Dalpol Yacht's focus on livability.