Bayfield 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Bayfield 29 is characterized by its high displacement-to-length ratio and its full keel with a shoal draft of only 3 feet 6 inches. This combination makes it an exceptional "gunkholer," capable of entering shallow bays and estuaries that are off-limits to more modern, fin-keel designs. However, the trade-off for this stability and shallow-water access is a lack of agility in light air. According to a review in Sailing Magazine, the boat requires a stiff breeze—typically 10 to 12 knots—to truly find its stride.

The boat was typically rigged as a "cutter-headed sloop," utilizing the bowsprit to extend the sail plan and allow for a larger headsail. This configuration helps counteract the weather helm that can develop in stronger gusts. On the water, the Bayfield 29 is known for its excellent tracking; once the sails are trimmed, the long keel allows it to hold a course with minimal intervention from the helm. While it will not win races against modern performance cruisers like a Catalina or Beneteau, its motion in a seaway is remarkably comfortable, lacking the "jerky" motion often found in lighter, flat-bottomed hulls.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 29-foot boat, the Bayfield offers a surprisingly voluminous interior, a result of Ted Gozzard’s focus on "liveability." The cabin features 6 feet 1 inch of headroom, a rare find in this size class from the late 1970s. The layout is traditional but thoughtfully executed, featuring a V-berth forward, followed by a head and hanging locker that separate the sleeping quarters from the main salon. The salon typically includes two settee berths, with a fold-down table that clears the floor space when not in use.

The cabinetry is dominated by warm teak, giving the interior a cozy, ship-like atmosphere. One notable variation in the Bayfield lineup is the evolution from the Bayfield 29 to its larger siblings, the Bayfield 30 and 32. While the 29 uses a standard forward-cabin layout, the Bayfield 32 moved the head into the forepeak, a design choice that was polarizing among owners. The 29 is often considered the most balanced of the "small" Bayfields, providing a dedicated V-berth that remains a preferred configuration for many cruisers.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Bayfield 29 with a checklist focused on the longevity of its 40-year-old systems and construction methods.

• Deck Coring: Like many boats of this era, the Bayfield 29 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the chainplates, stanchion bases, or the bowsprit attachment points can lead to core rot. A percussion test or moisture meter is essential during a survey.
• Chainplates: The chainplates on the 29 are known to be difficult to inspect where they pass through the deck. Over time, salt water can cause crevice corrosion. If there is evidence of rust staining on the interior bulkhead, the chainplates may require pulling and replacement.
• Bowsprit Integrity: The wooden bowsprit is a structural component of the rig. If the wood is allowed to rot or if the bolts have loosened, the integrity of the entire forestay is compromised.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Bayfield 29s were equipped with Yanmar diesel engines (often the 1GM or 2GM series). While these are robust, buyers should check the exhaust elbow for carbon buildup and ensure the motor mounts are not severely corroded from bilge water.

Community & Resources

Owners of these vessels are supported by a dedicated community of enthusiasts. The Bayfield Yachts Owners Group is a primary hub for technical advice, offering a repository of original manuals and advice on sourcing hard-to-find parts for the Gozzard-designed hulls. Additionally, because Ted Gozzard went on to found Gozzard Yachts, some technical lineage and philosophy are preserved through the Gozzard family's continued presence in the marine industry.

The Verdict

The Bayfield 29 is an ideal coastal cruiser for those who prioritize character and comfort over speed. It is a robustly built vessel that can handle heavy weather with more grace than most modern boats of the same length, though it requires patience in light winds.

Pros:

• Classic, timeless aesthetic with beautiful woodwork.
• Excellent 6'1" headroom and interior volume for its size.
• Shoal draft (3'6") allows for superior shallow-water cruising.
• Strong tracking and predictable handling in heavy seas.

Cons:

• Sluggish performance in light air (under 10 knots).
• High maintenance requirements for exterior teak and bowsprit.
• The long keel makes backing up under power difficult and unpredictable.