Chaser 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the Chaser 29 exhibits the classic characteristics of a Peterson design, which revolutionized IOR racing with boats like Ganbare. With a displacement of 6,600 lbs and a deep 5.58-foot draft, the vessel is optimized for upwind performance. The high-aspect-ratio rig and significant ballast-to-displacement ratio allow it to point exceptionally high and maintain stiffness in a breeze. Owner experiences, often shared in regional sailing circles, suggest the boat "punches above its weight" in light to moderate air, a trait common to Half Tonners of this vintage.

However, the IOR-influenced hull shape—featuring a wide beam at the waterline that narrows significantly toward the deck and stern (tumblehome)—presents specific handling challenges. Like many of its siblings from the mid-70s, the Chaser 29 can become "squirrelly" when sailing deep downwind in heavy seas, as the narrow stern provides less buoyancy and tracking stability than modern wide-transom designs. Sailors accustomed to modern hulls will find that the Chaser 29 requires active helm work and precise sail trimming to manage its tendencies toward rhythmic rolling when under spinnaker.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a 29-foot boat designed primarily for racing, the Chaser 29 offers a surprisingly functional interior that reflects the "cruiser-racer" compromise of the 1970s. The layout typically follows a standard plan: a V-berth forward, followed by an enclosed head to port and a hanging locker to starboard. The main salon features opposing settees, with the port side often doubling as a pilot berth or convertible double.

Materials used in the Chaser 29 are characteristic of Canadian builds of the era, utilizing a mix of fiberglass liners and teak trim to create a warm, albeit compact, living space. Headroom is adequate for a vessel of its size, though it tapers significantly toward the bow. While the Chaser 29 was the primary focus of the yard, Chaser Yachts also produced the larger Chaser 33, which utilized a similar design philosophy but offered significantly more "standing room" and a dedicated offshore galley, making it the preferred choice for owners looking for a true coastal cruiser rather than a club racer.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Chaser 29 with the diligence required for any 50-year-old fiberglass vessel. Five primary areas require inspection:

1. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats from the mid-70s, Chaser Yachts used balsa-coring in the decks. Over time, moisture can penetrate through improperly bedded stanchions or deck hardware, leading to delamination and "soft spots."
2. Keel-to-Hull Joint: The deep 5.58-foot fin keel exerts significant leverage on the hull structure. Inspect the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-hull joint and check the interior backing plates and keel bolts for signs of stress or weeping.
3. Rudder Bearings and Core: The spade rudder is a performance-oriented feature but is prone to water ingress and internal corrosion of the rudder post. Any play in the steering or signs of "weeping" from the rudder blade when hauled out should be investigated.
4. Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates on the Chaser 29 are bolted to internal bulkheads. Leaks at the deck level can lead to rot in the structural bulkheads, which is a labor-intensive repair.
5. Original Engine Condition: Many Chaser 29s were originally equipped with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine or early small Yanmar diesels. Buyers should verify the cooling system and exhaust manifold condition, as parts for older Atomic 4s are becoming increasingly specialized.

The Verdict

The Chaser 29 remains a compelling choice for the budget-conscious sailor who values performance pedigree and the aesthetic of the "golden age" of IOR racing. While it requires a skilled hand to manage downwind, its upwind capabilities and solid Canadian construction make it a resilient performer on the club racing circuit.

Pros:

• Peterson Pedigree: Exceptional upwind performance and historical significance.
• Solid Construction: Robust fiberglass layup typical of 1970s Canadian builders.
• Value: Offers a high performance-to-cost ratio on the used market.

Cons:

• IOR Quirks: Prone to rolling and sensitive handling when sailing downwind in heavy air.
• Maintenance Intensive: Age-related issues like deck core moisture and engine wear are common.
• Tight Quarters: The pinched stern limits cockpit space and aft interior volume compared to modern 29-footers.