Compass 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Compass 29 is widely regarded as a "stiff" and forgiving vessel, a direct result of its significant displacement and ballast ratio. It was not designed as a light-air racer; instead, it excels when the breeze freshens and the sea state becomes choppy. With a long fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, the boat exhibits excellent directional stability, tracking straight with minimal helm effort. This configuration provides a level of protection for the rudder that is often lacking in modern spade-rudder designs, making it a preferred choice for sailors navigating reef-strewn coastal waters.

Handling is characterized by a slow, predictable motion. While the Compass 29 requires a decent breeze to get moving—typically 10 to 12 knots—it holds its momentum well through tacks. According to technical insights from the Compass Yacht Group, the hull's generous beam and substantial GRP layup provide a high degree of form stability. On the wind, the boat is dry and stable, though its relatively shallow draft (approximately 1.3 meters) means it will not point as high as a modern performance cruiser. However, for the cruising sailor, the trade-off is a vessel that feels secure in offshore conditions where smaller, lighter boats might struggle.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the primary selling points of the Compass 29 during its production run was its remarkable interior volume. The designers managed to provide approximately 1.88 meters (6'2") of headroom, a feat rarely seen in yachts under 30 feet from that era. The layout is traditional and functional, typically featuring a V-berth forward, a localized head (bathroom) and hanging locker, and a main saloon with two settee berths. A quarter berth is usually situated to the starboard aft, bringing the total sleeping capacity to five.

The use of molded fiberglass liners made the interior easy to clean and maintain, though high-quality teak trim was often used to provide a warmer aesthetic. Variations of the 29 often focus on the galley arrangement; most models feature a compact longitudinal galley to port, equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep icebox.

The Compass 29 is often compared to its predecessor, the Compass 28. While they share a family resemblance, the 29 is a distinct hull with a revised stern and significantly more internal volume. Another sibling, the Northerly 32, utilized a similar design philosophy but offered more waterline length for those seeking increased hull speed and blue-water capability.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Compass 29 has a significant cultural footprint within the Australian sailing community. It is frequently cited in regional cruising guides as the quintessential entry-level yacht for those looking to explore the Whitsundays or the New South Wales coast. Its reputation for safety has led to several documented solo coastal circumnavigations of Australia by owners who value the boat's "bulletproof" construction over modern amenities.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

When inspecting a Compass 29, several model-specific areas require attention:

• Osmosis: As with many early GRP boats from the 1970s, "osmotic blistering" is a known concern. Prospective buyers should look for signs of hull blistering, particularly in boats that have not had a professional epoxy treatment or have been left in the water for extended periods.
• Mast Step Compression: The mast is deck-stepped, supported by a bulkhead below. Over decades, the compression can lead to slight sagging in the deck or movement in the internal bulkheads. Check for cracks in the gelcoat around the mast base and ensure the cabin doors still align correctly.
• Chainplates and Rigging: The original stainless steel chainplates are known to develop crevice corrosion where they pass through the deck. It is common practice for owners to pull and inspect these every ten years.
• Engine Maintenance: Many Compass 29s were originally fitted with Yanmar or Bukh diesel engines. While these are reliable, accessibility in the engine bay is tight, and a thorough check for salt-water leaks around the heat exchanger and exhaust elbow is advised.
• Window Leaks: The large side windows are prone to leaking if the original seals have perished. This can lead to rot in the interior timber trim and should be addressed promptly to prevent structural damage to the plywood bulkheads.

Community & Resources

The legacy of these vessels is preserved by the Compass Yacht Group, a dedicated technical resource and community for owners of Compass 28s, 29s, and 30s. The group maintains an archive of original brochures, rigging diagrams, and maintenance logs that are invaluable for restoration projects.

The Verdict

The Compass 29 remains a premier choice for the budget-conscious sailor who prioritizes safety and space over racing performance. It is a rugged, honest yacht that has stood the test of time in some of the world's most demanding coastal waters.

Pros:

• Exceptional headroom and interior volume for its length.
• Strong, heavy GRP construction that inspires confidence in heavy weather.
• Predictable handling and excellent tracking thanks to the skeg-hung rudder.
• High resale value and a strong parts-sharing community.

Cons:

• Relatively sluggish in light winds (under 10 knots).
• Potential for osmosis in older, untreated hulls.
• Aged interior woodwork and systems often require modernization.