Gulf Coast 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Gulf Coast 29 emerged from the collaborative vision of Martin Bludworth and Fred Maudlin, founders of Gulf Coast Sailboats in 1971, 13]. Production of the Gulf Coast 29 commenced in 1972, a period when fiberglass construction was rapidly becoming the dominant material for recreational vessels due to its durability and ease of maintenance. As a designer, Martin Bludworth, known for his keen understanding of sailboat performance, instilled in the Gulf Coast 29 a philosophy centered on practical and seaworthy characteristics. The company operated until 1984, dedicating itself to producing robust vessels that offered a rewarding experience without excessive complexity. While specific design variations such as MkI/MkII or tall/standard rigs for the Gulf Coast 29 are not widely documented, the consistent production throughout these years suggests a well-established and reliable design. The Gulf Coast 29 features solid fiberglass for both hull and deck materials, a common and durable choice for boats of its era.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Gulf Coast 29, with its fin keel and spade rudder, was designed to offer a balanced and stable sailing experience. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 398.3 categorizes it as a "heavy cruiser," indicating a robust and forgiving motion, particularly in a seaway. This substantial displacement contributes to reduced capsize vulnerability, making it a solid choice for cruising.

With a reported sail area of 340 square feet and a displacement of 9,500 pounds, the Gulf Coast 29 has a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 12.14. This figure suggests the boat is not primarily a light-air performer, performing more effectively in moderate to heavier winds. While some sources suggest a "slightly more speedy hull design" for its class, its overall characteristics point to a boat built for reliable cruising rather than high-performance racing. The masthead sloop rig provides a straightforward sail plan, often preferred for its simplicity. Its maximum theoretical hull speed is around 6.29 knots.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific detailed interior layouts for the Gulf Coast 29 are not extensively documented in publicly available information, boats of this size and vintage typically feature a practical arrangement designed for coastal cruising comfort. Given its beam of 9.0 feet and a length overall of 29.0 feet, the interior would generally include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, and a modest galley area. A dedicated head compartment would usually be situated, often between the V-berth and the salon or aft near the companionway. Storage would consist of lockers and shelves throughout the cabin. Interior finishes in boats of this era by builders like Gulf Coast Sailboats typically emphasized durable, functional materials, often incorporating some wood trim alongside fiberglass surfaces for a utilitarian yet comfortable environment. Ventilation would likely be provided by deck hatches and opening ports.