Islander 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Islander 29's production years of 1968 and 1969 fall within a pivotal era for Islander Yachts, a company that grew from Joseph McGlasson's early successes in fiberglass boat building following his wooden boat origins., 2] During this time, Islander Yachts was known for its dedication to solid construction and practical design. The Islander 29 was originally produced by the Wayfarer Yacht Corporation before the company officially embraced the Islander Yachts name in 1965, with Joseph McGlasson remaining a key designer for many early models., 2, 3] A notable variation of this design is the "Wayfarer 29," and a raised-deck version was also marketed as the "Islander 30."

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a total calculated sail area of approximately 392 square feet and a displacement of 7,800 pounds, the Islander 29 exhibits a sail area to displacement ratio of around 15.7. This suggests a boat with moderate performance characteristics, capable of moving well in a variety of conditions but not optimized purely for light-air racing. The ballast to displacement ratio, at about 0.32, indicates a moderately stiff and stable vessel for its era, designed to stand up to a decent breeze. Furthermore, its displacement to length ratio of approximately 274 classifies it as a medium-heavy displacement cruiser, aligning with a more traditional and comfortable motion in a seaway rather than a light, skittish feel. Owners have anecdotally described the Islander 29 as "very stable and fast" and known for its "offshore safety and sailing," suggesting a reassuring and capable ride for its size.

Accommodations and Layout

The Islander 29, with a length overall of just over 29 feet and a beam of 8.83 feet, was designed to maximize interior volume for comfortable cruising. While specific detailed layouts are not extensively documented in widely available resources, it is known that the interior typically features sleeping accommodations for four, with a dinette table that can be lowered to form an additional berth. The general ethos of Islander Yachts during this period emphasized comfortable interiors, often featuring practical layouts suitable for extended coastal cruising. Owners often find the cabin to be functional, though detailed information regarding specific materials, finish quality, storage solutions, or ventilation systems for the Islander 29 specifically is not readily available through general searches.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Islander 29 frequently praise its robust construction and solid sailing characteristics. Many describe the boat as stable and surprisingly fast for a vessel of its size and vintage, noting its reliability for both coastal cruising and demonstrating a degree of offshore capability. The enduring appeal of the Islander 29 is evident in the active community of owners who connect through online forums and associations, reflecting a strong sense of pride and shared experience. While specific common problems are not widely documented for the Islander 29 in general owner reviews, the longevity of these vessels on the water speaks to their fundamental build quality and the dedication of their caretakers.