Finnsailer 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

To understand the Finnsailer 29’s motion at sea, one must look at its underwater profile: a long, shallow keel and a heavy displacement hull. While specific technical ratios for this model place it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category, its sailing performance is best described as steady rather than spirited. The boat tracks exceptionally well thanks to the long keel, making it an easy vessel to manage for solo sailors or couples. However, the high freeboard and the substantial windage of the wheelhouse mean that the Finnsailer 29 does not point particularly high into the wind.

Under sail, the boat requires a stiff breeze to come alive. In light airs, most owners find themselves relying on the auxiliary power—traditionally a Perkins or Volvo Penta diesel—to maintain progress. When the wind picks up to 15 knots or more, the hull stabilizes, and the boat exhibits a reassuringly low heel angle. The steering is typically hydraulic, which provides a smooth, if somewhat disconnected, feel compared to cable or tiller steering. This lack of feedback is a common trade-off in motorsailers of this vintage, as the hydraulic system allows for dual-station steering (inside the wheelhouse and in the cockpit) without complex mechanical linkages.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Finnsailer 29 is where the influence of Angus Primrose is most evident, maximizing every inch of its roughly 9-foot beam. The layout is centered around a traditional maritime aesthetic, featuring high-quality Finnish joinery and a logical flow. Most models feature a V-berth forward, a central saloon with a folding table that converts into a double berth, and a compact but functional galley. The defining characteristic of the model is the semi-enclosed wheelhouse, which serves as a transition zone between the interior cabin and the elements. This area provides a sheltered spot for the helmsman, significantly extending the cruising season in northern latitudes.

Fiskars produced several "siblings" and variations within the Finnsailer line. The 29 shares its DNA with the smaller Finnsailer 24 and the significantly larger Finnsailer 35 and 38 models. While the 35 often featured a separate aft cabin, the 29 focuses its volume in the main saloon and cockpit. There are also variations in the cockpit enclosure; some hulls were delivered with a hard-top wheelhouse, while others utilized a heavy-duty canvas "doghouse" on a stainless steel frame.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Finnsailer 29 should approach the vessel with an eye toward its 1970s origins. While the hull is historically overbuilt, the secondary systems often require attention.

1. Hydraulic Steering Leaks: The hydraulic lines connecting the inner and outer helm stations are prone to weeping at the seals or developing "soft" steering if air enters the system. Inspect the reservoir and all visible connections for fluid residue.
2. Window and Hatch Seals: The large windows of the wheelhouse are a hallmark of the design but are notorious for developing leaks as the original rubber gaskets perish. Evidence of water ingress is usually visible in the wood paneling below the window frames.
3. Engine Longevity: Many Finnsailer 29s still carry their original Perkins 4.108 engines. While these are legendary for their durability, they are also known for oil leaks and "wet stacking" if run at low loads for too long. A cold-start test is essential.
4. Hull Osmosis: While Fiskars used high-quality resins, any boat of this age is susceptible to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter test on the hull below the waterline is recommended during a survey.
5. Chainplate Inspection: Because the 29 is often used as a motorboat, the standing rigging can sometimes be neglected. Check the chainplates where they penetrate the deck for signs of crevice corrosion or moisture in the deck core.

Community & Resources

Owners of these Finnish classics often find support through broader Nordic boat associations. While there is no longer a dedicated factory portal, the Finnish Classic Yacht Association remains a high-authority resource for technical history on vessels produced by Fiskars and other regional yards of that era. Additionally, technical documentation for the Angus Primrose designs can often be found through the archives of the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, which holds various historical yachting records.

The Verdict

The Finnsailer 29 is a rugged, honest vessel that prioritizes the comfort of its crew over the speed of the passage. It is an ideal choice for a coastal cruiser who wants the security of a "little ship" feel in a sub-30-foot package.

Pros:

• Exceptional build quality and heavy GRP layup.
• The wheelhouse provides excellent protection from rain and wind.
• Highly stable hull with predictable tracking.
• Spacious interior for its length, suitable for extended coastal cruising.

Cons:

• Poor light-wind sailing performance.
• Large turning circle due to the long keel.
• High windage can make docking in a crosswind challenging.
• Aging mechanical systems and potential for window leaks.