Rhodes Ranger 29 Information, Review, Specs

The Rhodes Ranger 29 began its production in 1960, a period that saw Philip Rhodes actively contributing to the burgeoning fiberglass boat revolution with his diverse yacht designs. Seafarer Fiberglass Yachts, Inc. of Huntington, New York, initially made its mark in the marine industry as a US distributor for several of Rhodes' popular designs, including various "Ranger" models, before transitioning to direct boat building in 1965. The Rhodes Ranger 29, specifically, was imported to the US by Seafarer, with some examples notably built by De Visser in the Netherlands. Rhodes' design philosophy emphasized underlying principles that resulted in well-regarded and aesthetically pleasing vessels, with the Ranger 29 being lauded for its "very pretty design" and appealing sheer line.

Over its production run, the Rhodes Ranger 29 offered some variations to owners. Notably, buyers could choose between iron ballast (1900 lbs) or a heavier lead option (2750 lbs), influencing the boat's stability. Furthermore, the vessel was available with an optional inboard engine, a choice that impacted its handling characteristics, as some versions equipped with outboard engines were noted for a pitching issue. Another version of the boat was also known as the Santander 28 in the UK. The construction of the Rhodes Ranger 29 featured a solid fiberglass hull and deck, indicative of a build quality intended for durability and offshore capability.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Rhodes Ranger 29's specifications reveal a heavy-displacement vessel, a characteristic often associated with a comfortable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of 7,965 pounds and a waterline length of 20 feet, its displacement-to-length ratio of approximately 444 indicates a substantially built cruiser. This heavy displacement, combined with a sail area to displacement ratio of about 12.97, suggests that the Rhodes Ranger 29 is not a light-air performer but is instead designed to handle heavier winds and challenging conditions with stability.

The boat's ballast-to-displacement ratio of around 0.345 provides moderate stability, allowing it to stand up to a reasonable amount of wind. While the boat is listed with a fin keel, its design provides good directional stability, a characteristic typically associated with a longer keel profile. Anecdotal evidence from owners often describes the Rhodes Ranger 29 as "built like a tank" and a "heavy but awesome bluewater boat," suggesting a solid and reassuring feel on the water. While generally well-regarded for its robust build, some owners of versions with outboard engines have reported a pitching issue.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Rhodes Ranger 29, though limited in official specifications regarding maximum headroom, typically reflects the pragmatic and functional layouts common for cruisers of its era. Online depictions and owner accounts suggest a classic arrangement designed for comfortable cruising. The cabin interior often features wooden accents and cushioned berths, providing a warm and traditional aesthetic. Like many sailboats of its size, the layout would typically include a V-berth forward, a main salon area with seating and a table, a compact galley for meal preparation, and a marine head. While specific details on storage and ventilation would vary between individual boats and how they were fitted out, the design priorities would have focused on maximizing usable space within its 8-foot beam for extended periods aboard.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Rhodes Ranger 29 frequently commend the boat for its solid construction and durability. Many describe it as being "built like a tank" and a "heavily built fiberglass boat," highlighting its robust nature and suitability for serious cruising. The design by Philip Rhodes is often praised for its aesthetic appeal, with its "pretty design" and graceful sheer line earning appreciation. Owners who have undertaken restoration projects also attest to the inherent quality of its build, suggesting that even older models can be brought back to excellent condition.

However, like any classic vessel, there are commonly noted points. Some owners have reported experiencing "hull slap," a noise issue that can occur in certain conditions. Furthermore, the versions of the Rhodes Ranger 29 that were fitted with outboard engines have, in some instances, been associated with a "pitching issue," which could affect comfort in certain sea states. Despite these minor points, the collective sentiment among owners often points to a vessel that, with proper maintenance, offers a rewarding and dependable sailing experience, embodying the spirit of classic fiberglass yachting.