Leisure 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

On the water, the Leisure 29 is defined by its stability and "big boat" feel. Alan Hill’s design prioritizes sea-kindliness over outright racing speed, featuring a moderate-to-heavy displacement and a relatively high ballast ratio. This ensures that the vessel remains stiff in a breeze, often carrying its full main and genoa long after lighter 29-footers have been forced to reef. The boat was offered in both fin keel and twin (bilge) keel configurations; while the fin keel offers superior pointing ability, the twin-keel version is exceptionally popular in the UK and Northern Europe for its ability to dry out in tidal harbors.

According to technical archives maintained by the Leisure Owners Association, the boat tracks well due to its semi-balanced rudder and a skeg-hung arrangement that provides protection and directional stability. Sailors often report that the helm is heavy enough to provide good feedback without being fatiguing. However, with its generous beam and substantial weight, the Leisure 29 can be sluggish in light airs (under 8 knots of wind). It truly comes alive in a Force 4 or 5, where its momentum allows it to punch through choppy coastal seas with minimal slamming.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Leisure 29 was a revelation for its time, utilizing its 9-foot 6-inch beam to create a volume typically found in 32-foot yachts. The layout is a classic of the era: a forward V-berth, a heads compartment that spans the width of the boat (providing significant elbow room for the shower and toilet), and a main saloon with a convertible dinette. A notable feature is the standing headroom, which exceeds 6 feet 1 inch throughout most of the cabin, making it a viable long-term cruiser for taller sailors.

The cabinetry is typically finished in teak or mahogany veneers, providing a warm, traditional nautical aesthetic. Unlike its smaller sibling, the Leisure 27, which was more of a "stretched" 23, the 29 was an entirely new hull form that allowed for a dedicated chart table and a more functional galley with a two-burner stove and oven. In terms of variations, the "SL" (Special Luxury) designations seen in later Leisure models were less defined here, as most 29s were built to a high standard from the outset, though later interior finishes by Brinecraft may show slight differences in joinery compared to original Cobramold hulls.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Leisure 29 with the standard diligence required for 1970s GRP vessels. While the hulls are over-engineered, several age-related areas require inspection:

• Engine Maintenance: Many original units were fitted with the Volvo Penta MD11C or MD7A. While these are workhorses, spare parts are becoming scarce and expensive. Buyers should check for "smoke at start" and signs of salt-water cooling passage blockage.
• Osmosis: While Cobramold hulls are thick, they are not immune to osmotic blistering. A moisture meter check of the hull below the waterline is essential, especially for boats that have remained in the water year-round.
• Keel Bolts: On bilge keel variants, the stresses of drying out on hard sand or mud over decades can strain the keel-to-hull joint. Look for "the smile" (cracking) at the leading edge of the keel joint or rust streaks on the internal backing plates.
• Deck Core: The deck is a sandwich construction. Areas around stanchion bases and the mast step should be checked for "sponginess," which indicates water ingress and core delamination.

Community & Resources

The Leisure 29 benefits from one of the most organized owner-support networks in the maritime world. The Leisure Owners Association acts as a centralized repository for technical manuals, original brochures, and a vast knowledge base of owner-led modifications. This community is particularly active in the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, offering a dedicated forum where members discuss everything from engine swaps to rudder bearing replacements.

The Verdict

The Leisure 29 is a quintessential "honest" boat. It does not pretend to be a regatta winner, but it offers a level of security and interior volume that is difficult to find in more modern, lightweight designs. It remains a top-tier choice for families or couples seeking a budget-friendly cruiser capable of crossing the North Sea or cruising the English Channel in comfort.

Pros:

• Exceptional Headroom: Rare to find such vertical space in a sub-30-foot vintage yacht.
• Seaworthy Design: Heavy GRP layup and Alan Hill’s hull lines provide a very safe feel in rough weather.
• Active Support: The owner's association provides nearly unparalleled technical documentation for DIY owners.

Cons:

• Light Air Performance: Requires a large genoa or cruising chute to move effectively in light winds.
• Aged Systems: Original engines and wiring looms are likely reaching the end of their functional lifespan.
• Beaminess: The wide beam can lead to increased berthing costs in marinas that charge by width in some regions.