Islander 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Islander 29 is defined by its heavy-displacement characteristics and traditional underwater profile. With a displacement of approximately 8,100 pounds and a relatively short 20-foot waterline, the boat has a high Displacement/Length (D/L) ratio, placing it firmly in the "heavy cruiser" category. In practice, this translates to a motion that is remarkably kind in a seaway. Unlike lighter, modern fin-keel designs that tend to "skitter" over waves, the Islander 29 punches through chop with momentum.

Its full keel and attached rudder provide exceptional directional stability, allowing the boat to track straight for long periods with minimal helm correction—a trait highly valued by solo sailors and long-distance cruisers. However, this design comes with trade-offs. The boat is not particularly weatherly compared to modern designs, and its large wetted surface area means it requires a stiff breeze to overcome initial drag; light-air performance is generally considered sluggish. Maneuvering in tight marinas can also be a challenge, as the attached rudder offers limited authority at low speeds, and the boat exhibits significant prop walk when backing under power.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Islander 29 was considered spacious for a 29-foot boat in 1965, benefiting from the generous beam that McGlasson incorporated into the hull. The layout is traditional, featuring a V-berth forward followed by a marine head (often tucked behind a privacy door) and a main salon with opposing settees. Most models were finished with a significant amount of mahogany or teak trim, providing a warm, shipshape aesthetic that many modern fiberglass boats lack.

There are two primary interior configurations found on the used market. The "Standard" layout features two long longitudinal settees that double as sea berths, while the "Dinette" version utilizes a U-shaped seating area on the port side that converts into a double berth. Because the boat was also marketed in kit form through the "Yachtcraft" subsidiary, interior finish quality can vary wildly between hulls; factory-finished boats generally exhibit more consistent joinery than those completed by original owners. The hull was also marketed as the Wayfarer 29 during the early years of production, though these vessels are functionally identical to the Islander-branded models.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of an Islander 29 should approach the vessel as a vintage restoration project, focusing on the structural integrity of the 1960s laminate.

• Deck Core Sogginess: Like many boats of this era, the Islander 29 utilized a plywood or balsa core for the decks. Over decades, poorly bedded stanchions and chainplates often allow water to ingress, leading to soft spots. A thorough "tap test" with a plastic hammer or a moisture meter reading is essential during inspection.
• The "Atomic 4" Engine: Many Islander 29s were originally equipped with the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine. While these are reliable and simple to maintain, they require careful fuel management to prevent vapor explosions. Buyers should check for the presence of a blower system and inspect the fuel tank for corrosion.
• Chainplate Anchors: The chainplates are bolted to the bulkheads. If the deck seals have leaked, the plywood bulkheads can rot, compromising the structural tension of the standing rigging.
• Hull Osmosis: While Islander used thick, hand-laid fiberglass, boats from this era are prone to osmotic blistering. While rarely structural on a hull this thick, it is a significant factor in maintenance costs.
• Spreaders and Rigging: The original wooden spreaders on some early models are prone to rot and should ideally be replaced with aluminum upgrades.

Community & Resources

The Islander 29 benefits from the larger Islander Yacht community, which remains one of the most active for "orphan" brands. The Islander 36 Association is the most prominent organization and, while focused on the 36-foot model, serves as a primary repository for technical drawings, historical brochures, and maintenance wikis that apply to the 29 and other sibling models.

The Verdict

The Islander 29 is an excellent choice for the traditionalist sailor who prioritizes stability and classic lines over raw speed and modern dockside amenities. It remains a stout, capable pocket-cruiser that, when properly maintained, can handle conditions that would send newer, lighter boats back to the slip.

Pros

• Exceptional Tracking: The full keel makes for relaxed, hands-off sailing on long reaches.
• Timeless Aesthetics: The CCA-era lines and heavy wood interior provide a classic yacht feel.
• Affordability: As an older production boat, it offers one of the lowest price-per-pound entries into coastal cruising.

Cons

• Close-Quarters Handling: Difficult to maneuver in reverse and has a large turning radius.
• Light Air Performance: Requires significant sail area or the engine to move in winds under 8 knots.
• Aging Systems: Most examples require updates to electrical, plumbing, and standing rigging.