Delphia 29 (2014-2018) Information, Review, Specs

Before its strategic shift towards electric and motor yachts under Groupe Beneteau, Delphia Yachts cultivated a reputation for "mindful cruising," emphasizing comfort, harmony, and relaxation, with a focus on connecting with nature. This ethos is evident in the thoughtful design of the Delphia 29, which was built to provide a serene and enjoyable experience on the water.

History and Design

The Delphia 29 (2014-2018) emerged from a lineage of successful smaller cruisers from Delphia Yachts, a company founded in 1990 by brothers Piotr and Wojciech Kot. The builder's early years were dedicated to creating small sailing boats from their base in Olecko, Poland, a period that saw them grow into a significant manufacturer. The Delphia 29, a product of this sailing-focused era, was designed by Andrzej Skrzat, a designer known for creating vessels with practical and well-utilized spaces.

A key characteristic of the Delphia 29's design is its adaptability, particularly regarding its keel configurations. While the specifies a "wing" keel, the model was also available with fixed and retractable (lifting or swing) keel options, offering varying drafts to suit different cruising grounds. The retractable keel option, with a minimum draft as shallow as 1.31 feet, made the Delphia 29 particularly suitable for navigating shallow waters, canals, and lakes, a common requirement in Poland and surrounding regions. This versatility also included an optional system for quickly tilting the mast for passage under bridges.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Delphia 29 is designed to offer a balanced and enjoyable sailing experience. With a reported sail area of 404.72 square feet and a displacement of 6,834 pounds, its Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) stands at approximately 17.94. This ratio suggests a sailboat with moderate performance capabilities, indicating it should perform adequately in a range of wind conditions without being overly sluggish in light air or demanding in heavier breezes.

The ballast to displacement ratio (B/D) of around 0.29 indicates a design that prioritizes a lighter overall weight, which can contribute to nimbleness. While some sources for an older Delphia 29 variant suggest it is "reasonably stable", owners of the Delphia 29 typically describe its sailing performance as good, nimble, stable, and responsive to the helm, making it a joy to sail and easily handled. Anecdotal evidence also praises its secure and predictable motion, with all lines led aft for convenient single-handed or short-handed operation, complemented by lazy jacks and a lazy bag for ease of sail management.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Delphia 29 is designed to be spacious and practical, making efficient use of available volume for comfortable cruising. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the layout is typically configured with two cabins, providing sleeping accommodations for up to six people.

Owners and reviewers frequently highlight the well-thought-out interior, which offers a stylish and practical environment suitable for both short excursions and longer voyages. Details regarding the finish quality, materials, storage solutions, and ventilation would typically reflect Delphia's commitment to comfort and a quality cruising experience, aligning with their "mindful cruising" philosophy.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Delphia 29 generally speak highly of its attributes, often praising its solid construction and versatile nature. A recurring theme in owner feedback is the boat's secure and predictable sailing behavior, coupled with its practicality, especially for those seeking access to shallow waters provided by the lifting keel options. The ease of handling, with essential controls led back to the cockpit, further contributes to a positive ownership experience. The ability to quickly lower the mast is also a significant advantage for those navigating inland waterways with height restrictions.

While overwhelmingly positive, some discussions among owners have touched upon maintenance aspects, such as questions regarding access to the keel lifting pennant and sheave in models equipped with a lifting keel, suggesting that this mechanism might require attention over time. Overall, the Delphia 29 is regarded as a robust and adaptable cruiser, offering comfort and performance for a variety of sailing conditions.