Sailing Performance & Handling
As a dedicated motorsailer, the Evasion 29 possesses a hull form that favors stability and buoyancy over agility. With a displacement-to-length ratio that leans toward the "heavy cruiser" end of the spectrum, the boat is designed to plow through chop rather than skip over it. The sail plan is typically a sloop rig, though its primary purpose is often perceived as a "steadying" or "auxiliary" power source rather than the sole means of propulsion.
In handling, the Evasion 29 is characterized by its dual-steering capability—a feature highly prized by coastal navigators. It features an internal steering station within the protected pilothouse for inclement weather and a traditional tiller in the aft cockpit for fair-weather sailing. Because of its relatively high freeboard and large pilothouse structure, the boat can experience significant windage, making docking in a crosswind a maneuver that requires decisive throttle work. While it will not win races to windward, the boat tracks reliably on a reach. Technical documentation from the era suggests that while the boat is seaworthy, it is best operated as a 50/50 hybrid, utilizing its Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesel engine to maintain speed when the wind falls below 10 knots or turns directly onto the nose.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Evasion 29 is where the model truly distinguishes itself from the more spartan "First" series of the same era. By moving the primary living space into a raised deck saloon, André Bénéteau created an environment flooded with natural light, offering 360-degree visibility that is rare for a vessel under 30 feet. This layout fundamentally changes the "basement" feel common in traditional sailboats, allowing the crew to enjoy the scenery even while sheltered from rain or spray.
The standard configuration includes a compact galley, a dinette that can often be converted into an additional berth, and a dedicated helm seat to starboard. Below the pilothouse level, the boat typically offers a forward V-berth and a surprisingly spacious aft cabin for a 29-footer, tucked under the cockpit sole. The use of warm teak veneers was standard for the period, providing a nautical aesthetic that has aged better than the plastics used in some contemporary rivals. The Evasion 29 refined the layout of its predecessor, the Evasion 28, by optimizing the transitions between the cabin levels and improving the ergonomics of the galley and head compartment.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of an Evasion 29 should approach the purchase with a focus on the specific vulnerabilities of 1980s fiberglass construction and the unique requirements of a motorsailer.
- Window Seals and Scratches: The large acrylic or polycarbonate windows of the pilothouse are the boat’s greatest asset and its most common point of failure. Over decades, UV degradation can cause "crazing" (fine internal cracks), and seal failure often leads to leaks that can damage the teak cabinetry below.
- Engine Maintenance: Because motorsailers rely heavily on their powerplants, the engine often has higher hours than a pure sailboat of the same age. Buyers should check for exhaustive service records, particularly regarding the cooling system and heat exchangers, as the engine spaces in these models can be tight and prone to heat buildup.
- Osmotic Blistering: Like many production boats from the early 1980s, Beneteau hulls of this era can be susceptible to osmosis. A professional moisture meter reading of the hull below the waterline is essential during a survey.
- Deck Core Integrity: The Evasion 29 utilizes a sandwich construction in the deck for stiffness. Areas around stanchion bases, the mast step, and the windlass should be checked for "soft spots" or delamination, which indicates water ingress into the balsa or foam core.
- Dual Steering Linkage: The transition between the internal wheel steering and the external tiller must be inspected for play or corrosion. Cables and sheaves can stretch or fray over forty years, leading to a loss of "feel" at the helm.
Community & Resources
The primary hub for technical support is the Beneteau Owners Association, which maintains a repository of manual scans and owner-contributed modifications for the legacy Evasion line. Additionally, because the Evasion series was particularly popular in France, the "Association des Propriétaires de Bénéteau" provides a wealth of European-specific knowledge regarding original parts and rigging specifications.
The Verdict
The Beneteau Evasion 29 is a niche vessel that excels at its specific mission: providing a dry, comfortable, and visible platform for coastal exploration. It is an ideal choice for a cruising couple who value the "trawler" lifestyle but still wish to have the option of setting sail when the breeze is favorable.
Pros:
- Exceptional Visibility: The pilothouse design offers panoramic views and protection from weather.
- Dual Helm Stations: Flexibility to steer from the warmth of the cabin or the fresh air of the cockpit.
- Interior Volume: Feels significantly larger than 29 feet due to the raised saloon and clever aft-cabin placement.
Cons:
- Sluggish Performance: High displacement and windage mean it is not a spirited sailor in light airs.
- Age-Related Maintenance: Large windows and aging engines require consistent financial attention.
- Aesthetic Niche: The "utility" look of the motorsailer is polarizing compared to the sleek lines of modern cruisers.
