Cal 2-29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Cal 2-29 is renowned for a "dinghy-like" responsiveness that belies its 8,000-pound displacement. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio hovering around 17.5, the boat is remarkably powered for a cruiser of its era, allowing it to ghost along in light airs that leave heavier displacement competitors becalmed. Its Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 234 places it firmly in the medium-displacement category, providing enough momentum to punch through a typical afternoon chop without the jarring motion associated with lighter, modern flat-bottomed designs.

Handling is characterized by the exceptional balance typical of Bill Lapworth’s designs. Under sail, the boat tracks well, though the spade rudder provides immediate feedback; it requires an active hand but rewards the helm with a light, tactile feel. According to historical design notes from C. Raymond Hunt Associates, who later collaborated with Cal on various models, the design philosophy of this era prioritized a hull that could perform across all points of sail. The 2-29 is particularly adept at upwind work, pointing higher than many of its contemporaries. However, because of its relatively high power-to-weight ratio, it carries a fair amount of sail; owners frequently note that reefing the mainsail early—typically around 15 to 18 knots of apparent wind—keeps the boat upright and maintains its optimal hull speed without excessive weather helm.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The "2" in 2-29 signifies the major departure from the original 29-foot model’s interior. While the original Cal 29 was somewhat utilitarian, the 2-29 introduced a more "civilized" layout geared toward the family cruiser. The most significant change was the move to a T-shaped cockpit, which allowed for better engine access and a more ergonomic helmsman’s position. Below deck, the boat features a traditional layout with a forward V-berth, a port-side head, and a main salon with a settee that converts into a double berth.

The use of warm teak bulkheads and trim was a hallmark of the 2-29, moving away from the "all-white fiberglass" look of earlier iterations. Headroom is generous for a 29-footer, topping out at approximately 6' 2" in the main cabin, which contributes to an airy, open feel. While no major hull-length siblings exist for the 2-29 specifically, it shares its design DNA with the larger Cal 2-31 and the more compact Cal 2-27. Unlike the "3-series" boats that would follow, the 2-29 maintained a narrower beam, which benefits its sailing lines but results in a slightly tighter salon compared to the wide-body designs of the late 1980s.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Cal 2-29, the most critical "gotcha" is the mast step and compression post support. Over decades, the wooden block or fiberglass-encapsulated beam beneath the sole can rot or compress due to water ingress, leading to a sagging deck and standing rigging that is impossible to tune properly. Buyers should check for hairline cracks in the gelcoat around the mast base and ensure the cabin door still closes squarely, as a stuck door is a classic symptom of compression issues.

The spade rudder is another area for high-signal inspection. The internal armature is prone to corrosion if water penetrates the fiberglass skin, which can lead to "rudder swell" or, in extreme cases, total failure of the rudder post. Finally, the original Atomic 4 gasoline engines found in many early units require meticulous maintenance of the cooling and fuel systems. Many well-maintained 2-29s have been repowered with Universal or Yanmar diesels; these units are significantly more desirable for long-term reliability and resale value.

Community & Resources

The Cal 2-29 benefits from one of the most dedicated owner communities in the sailing world. The Cal Yachts Owners Association provides a deep repository of technical drawings and historical brochures. Owners also frequently congregate on regional technical wikis, such as the "Cal 29 Web" (a historical owner-maintained technical site), which offers specific guidance on rudder replacement and port-light sealing for this specific model.

The Verdict

The Cal 2-29 is a quintessential "sailor's cruiser," offering a level of performance that modern "charter-style" boats rarely match in this size range. It is an ideal vessel for the budget-conscious sailor who refuses to sacrifice the joy of a well-balanced helm for interior volume.

Pros:

• Exceptional Sailing Characteristics: Fast in light air and incredibly well-balanced on the helm.
• Robust Construction: Hand-laid fiberglass hulls that have proven their longevity over five decades.
• Active Community: Easy access to spare parts advice and DIY restoration guides from fellow owners.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Classic Bill Lapworth lines that remain handsome and "salty" in any marina.

Cons:

• Compression Post Vulnerability: Requires careful inspection of the mast support structure.
• Narrow Beam: The interior feels more cramped than more modern, beamier 29-foot designs.
• Gasoline Engine Risks: Original Atomic 4 engines require more safety vigilance than modern diesels.