Elizabethan 29 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Elizabethan 29 begins in 1960, when the renowned British designer C.R. Holman penned its lines. Originally built by Peter Webster Ltd. in Lymington, UK, and later by Drummond Bayne Marine, the Elizabethan 29 was an early adopter of fiberglass construction, with its solid hull providing exceptional durability. Holman's design philosophy for the Elizabethan 29 emphasized strong sailing characteristics, drawing inspiration from the traditional clinker-built Stella class and aiming for a stiff, fast cruiser-racer capable of being driven hard. He also specified relatively small engines, intending to keep the overall weight down and underscore the boat's sailing prowess.

A pivotal moment in the Elizabethan 29's history came around 1965 when Henri Wauquiez, the founder of the nascent Wauquiez shipyard in France, decided to produce the design under license. This marked the debut of Wauquiez as a sailboat builder, laying the groundwork for their future reputation for high-quality, meticulously constructed yachts. This partnership allowed the Elizabethan 29 to benefit from Wauquiez's burgeoning manufacturing ethos, which emphasized durability, robust build quality, and an unwavering commitment to the owner's experience, often utilizing solid fiberglass for both hulls and decks.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 29 feet and a waterline length of 20 feet, the Elizabethan 29 is designed for stability and comfort in a seaway. Its sail area to displacement ratio of approximately 13.54 indicates a boat that, while not a light-air speedster, possesses the power to move reliably in moderate to strong winds. This is complemented by a high ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.43, signifying a very stiff and stable vessel capable of standing up to significant wind and minimizing heel, contributing to a comfortable ride. The displacement to length ratio, calculated at approximately 406.25 (when using long tons), firmly places the Elizabethan 29 in the heavy displacement cruiser category, emphasizing its substantial build and ability to handle rough conditions with a "sea kindly" motion. Owners frequently praise its solid feel and comfortable behavior in challenging seas.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Elizabethan 29 typically offers around 5 feet 9 inches of headroom, a respectable figure for a boat of its size and era. The cabin design, with its angular molding, was sometimes left with a more utilitarian finish on the inside, occasionally appearing almost unfinished apart from a protective coat. While specific interior layouts can vary depending on the original fit-out and subsequent owner modifications, most Elizabethan 29s feature a conventional arrangement for a cruiser of this size. This generally includes a V-berth forward, a marine head, a salon area with settees that may convert into berths, and a galley typically positioned to port or starboard. Storage is usually adequate for coastal cruising, distributed throughout the cabin in lockers and under berths. Ventilation is generally provided by deck hatches and opening ports. Given their age, many Elizabethan 29 interiors may show signs of wear and could benefit from refurbishment.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Elizabethan 29 consistently laud its exceptional seaworthiness and robust construction. The boat's ability to handle heavy weather with a secure and comfortable motion is a frequently cited strength, making it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and forgiving cruiser. Its solid fiberglass hull is often highlighted as a testament to its durable build quality.

However, as with many classic yachts, potential owners should be aware of common maintenance considerations. Some owners have noted that the original engine, typically a smaller unit in line with Holman's design philosophy of prioritizing sailing performance, may feel underpowered by modern standards, though others contend the specified 9hp Yanmar GM10 is more than adequate for its design. Forum discussions also occasionally point to general issues associated with aging fiberglass boats, such as potential for original deck fittings to leak or the need for interior upgrades. The internal iron ballast, mentioned as a potential drawback in some discussions, would require proper sealing to prevent corrosion. Despite these typical considerations for a vintage vessel, a strong community of Elizabethan 29 owners exists, sharing insights and fostering the continued enjoyment of these enduring yachts.