GK 29 (Westerly) Information, Review, Specs

The creation of the Westerly GK 29 was rooted in the popular International Offshore Rule (IOR) Half-Ton class, a highly competitive racing category of its era. The prototype, aptly named "Giant Killer," first appeared in 1976 and set the stage for the production model. Designed by Mike Pocock of Laurent Giles and Partners, the GK 29 aimed to bring IOR-inspired performance to a broader market. Westerly Marine Ltd., known for dominating the UK leisure yachting industry in the late 1970s and early 1980s, applied their established manufacturing ethos to the GK 29, producing 182 units during its four-year run [14, 18,.

While the standard GK 29 was often configured as a masthead sloop, a racing version was also available, featuring a deeper 5.75-foot lead keel (compared to the standard 5.25-foot iron keel) and, in some instances, a fractional rig [4, 7, 10,. This flexibility allowed the GK 29 to cater to different sailing priorities, from pure racing to a more balanced cruising experience.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Westerly GK 29, with a length overall of 29 feet and a waterline length of 27.58 feet, offers spirited performance for its size. Its calculated Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.39 suggests a boat capable of respectable performance in lighter winds, while still being manageable when the breeze picks up. A high Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of 50% indicates excellent stiffness and stability, allowing the GK 29 to stand up to a good deal of wind without excessive heeling [4,. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of around 286 places it in the moderate-to-heavy cruiser-racer category, suggesting a solid feel and comfortable motion through a seaway rather than a light, skittish ride.

Owners frequently praise the GK 29 for its fast and fun sailing characteristics, noting it is easily tamed and boasts good sailing performance. Its transom-hung rudder contributes to responsive steering, making the boat engaging to sail [4,. Anecdotal evidence suggests the GK 29 handles well in various sea states, offering a secure feel offshore.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing heritage, the Westerly GK 29 was also marketed as a family cruiser, boasting a remarkably spacious interior for a 29-foot boat. While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior layout is often described as being similar to other popular Westerly models like the Fulmar and Konsort, suggesting a well-thought-out arrangement.

Typically, the interior features a V-berth forward, a saloon with settees that often convert into berths, a galley, and a separate head compartment. Storage is generally ample, with dedicated spaces beneath settees and open storage behind backrests. A cavernous sail locker to starboard also incorporates the fuel tank, optimizing space utilization. The general finish quality would align with Westerly's 1970s production standards, often incorporating wood trim alongside fiberglass. Ventilation would typically be provided by deck hatches and opening ports.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Westerly GK 29 consistently praise its robust construction and solid sailing performance, often highlighting its capabilities as a fast cruiser-racer. Many appreciate the spaciousness of the interior for a boat of its size, making it a viable option for weekend cruising or longer passages.

However, some common points of maintenance or concern have emerged over time. A recurring issue noted by owners across many Westerly models, including the GK 29, is the tendency for original headlinings to degrade and require replacement. Additionally, some owners have reported that the GK 29 can be prone to deformation when standing on its keel, which is an important consideration for haul-outs and long-term storage. Owners of older models, particularly those with the original Lister Petter engine, often consider repowering due to the age and potential maintenance issues of the original machinery. Despite these points, the GK 29 generally holds a strong reputation for being a reliable and enjoyable sailing yacht.