Samphire 29 Information, Review, Specs

The production of the Samphire 29 by North Sea Craft commenced in 1978. As part of the esteemed Samphire range, this vessel was conceived by renowned naval architect David M. Cannell, known for his commitment to designing yachts that were both fast and seaworthy. North Sea Craft, a prominent UK builder from the mid-1970s, established a strong reputation for producing characterful and durable vessels by skillfully translating classic yacht lines into modern GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) construction. Their manufacturing ethos during this era focused on creating sea-kindly boats with excellent directional stability, primarily achieved through the use of a long keel, a hallmark of their designs. The Samphire 29 was explicitly developed as an extended variant of the successful Samphire 26, with some versions featuring either an aft or center cockpit configuration, providing versatility in layout.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Samphire 29, with a displacement of 8,512 pounds and a waterline length of 22.16 feet, exhibits a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 349. This high ratio firmly places it in the heavy displacement category, indicative of a substantial and stable cruising platform. Its reported sail area of 290 square feet results in a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of around 11.08. This relatively low SA/D suggests that the Samphire 29 is a sailboat that is generally considered "underpowered" in lighter winds, meaning it may require stronger breezes to achieve its hull speed of 6.31 knots.

Despite being somewhat under-canvassed for light air, the Samphire 29 is praised for its inherent stability and stiffness, making it well-suited for offshore or bluewater cruising. With an estimated ballast-to-displacement ratio of 34% (typical for the Samphire range), combined with its long keel, the boat demonstrates excellent righting capability and a comfortable motion in a seaway. This design philosophy prioritizes seaworthiness and stability over outright speed, appealing to cruisers who value a robust and predictable sailing experience, particularly in challenging conditions. Owners generally find the boat handles predictably, offering reliable directional stability due to its long keel.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific interior headroom is not consistently reported in available data, the Samphire 29, being a traditionally styled cruiser, typically features a practical layout optimized for comfortable living at sea, rather than maximizing standing room throughout. The interior arrangements of the Samphire 29, based on its design as an extended version of the Samphire 26 and offering aft and center cockpit options, would likely influence the aft cabin configuration. A common layout for a vessel of this size from its era would include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and an enclosed head. Details on the specific finish quality or types of materials used (e.g., extensive wood trim vs. more utilitarian fiberglass liners) are not readily available in detailed reviews, but North Sea Craft generally focused on sturdy construction. Some owners have noted that while the aft cabin idea can be appealing for families, it might be somewhat restrictive for an adult liveaboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Samphire 29 consistently praise its solid construction and the enduring quality characteristic of North Sea Craft vessels. The robust build and traditional lines appeal to sailors who prioritize timeless design and seaworthiness over modern trends. The continued presence of these boats on the used market, decades after their initial production, serves as a testament to their durability and the satisfaction of their owners. While specific anecdotal strengths often revolve around its capability as a sea-kindly cruiser, some discussions suggest that the "rear cabin" layout, particularly in aft cockpit versions, might present space challenges for permanent adult liveaboards, though it could be a suitable arrangement for family cruising. The Samphire 29 fosters a sense of community among its enthusiasts, who appreciate its classic appeal and reliable sailing characteristics.