Sunbeam 29.1 Information, Review, Specs

The Sunbeam 29.1 emerged in 2023, reflecting Sunbeam Yachts' ambition to create a vessel that goes beyond a mere daysailer, providing enhanced comfort and flexibility for its users. The collaboration with naval architects J&J Design was central to its creation, ensuring a design philosophy centered on excellent handling, maximum control, and agility. Sunbeam Yachts, with roots tracing back to a carpentry workshop in 1838 and formally established as a boatbuilder in 1957, brought over 65 years of yacht development experience to the project. This extensive background instilled a commitment to high-quality construction and a blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation, often utilizing fiberglass (GRP) for hulls as seen in their contemporary models.

A key design innovation of the 29.1 is its hydraulic swivel keel, offering a flexible draft from 2.79 feet to 6.07 feet (0.85m to 1.85m). This feature allows owners maximum flexibility in choosing sailing areas, adapting to shallow waters or deeper drafts for enhanced performance. The standard rig includes a square-top main and a self-tacking jib, lauded for its combination of performance and ease of handling, especially for single-handed sailing. Optional configurations, such as the GT model, can incorporate a larger gennaker or spinnaker for boosted downwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Sunbeam 29.1 is characterized by an extremely lively and responsive sailing experience, even in challenging conditions. Its design targets superior sailing performance and ease of handling, reflecting a balance between a light, performance-oriented hull and stable characteristics. With a Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 113.1, the 29.1 falls into the category of very light, performance-driven boats, suggesting quick acceleration and an agile feel on the water. The Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio, around 30.13, is notably high, indicating excellent performance in light air and overall spirited sailing capabilities. While the Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of about 0.35 suggests moderate stability, test sails have shown the boat remains stable and responsive even in gusts exceeding 30 knots, highlighting its well-engineered balance.

The combination of a square-top mainsail and a self-tacking jib significantly contributes to its ease of handling, making it suitable for single-handed operation. The electric motor, often a prominent feature, underscores its eco-friendly design and quiet auxiliary power. The twin rudder configuration, though not explicitly detailed in the provided data, is typical for modern, performance-oriented designs, contributing to enhanced control and maneuverability, especially when heeled.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its classification as a "weekender" and "daysailer," the Sunbeam 29.1 offers a thoughtfully designed and comfortable interior. The boat's design emphasizes maximizing usable space on deck through its "Open Cockpit Concept". Inside, the accommodations typically revolve around a triangular double berth located at the forward end of the saloon, serving as the primary sleeping area.

While the exact headroom is not specified in the initial data, the interior is crafted to provide comfort for short cruises. The modular interior concept allows for flexibility, with some configurations potentially foregoing a traditional galley in favor of space for a gennaker or spinnaker recovery bag, catering to sailors who prioritize performance and streamlined utility over extensive cruising amenities. Sunbeam's reputation for exquisite interior finishes and beautiful construction suggests high-quality materials and craftsmanship are evident throughout the cabin, contributing to a premium feel. The overall approach strips away unnecessary "cruising clobber" to allow owners to simply step aboard and enjoy, aligning with its weekender philosophy.