Martin 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Martin 29 is characterized by its agility and exceptional light-air performance, a necessity for the varied conditions of the Pacific Northwest. It typically features a fractional rig with a large mainsail and a manageable headsail, allowing for precise depowering in heavy gusts and easy handling for short-handed crews. The hull is a moderate-displacement design with a relatively low wetted surface area, which translates to a boat that accelerates quickly and tracks well upwind.

According to technical reviews from regional publications such as Pacific Yachting, the Martin 29 is noted for its stiffness and "big boat" feel under sail, despite its modest length. The deep fin keel provides a low center of gravity, while the balanced spade rudder offers immediate feedback to the helm. Unlike many 29-footers of its generation that struggle in downwind legs due to narrow stern sections, the Martin 29 carries sufficient beam aft to remain stable and controllable when surfing in a blow.

Interior Comfort & Variations

Unlike the stripped-out interiors of pure racing machines, the Martin 29 was designed with "fast cruising" in mind. The layout is traditional yet functional, maximizing the 10-foot plus beam. Most hulls feature a comfortable V-berth forward, followed by a marine head and a main salon with opposing settees. A notable feature for a boat of this size is the approximately 6-foot headroom in the main cabin, which significantly enhances the livability for overnight trips.

Materials used in the interior typically include teak veneers and molded fiberglass liners, providing a balance of warmth and ease of maintenance. The galley is generally located aft, near the companionway, featuring a sink, icebox, and stove. While there were no major structural variations produced by the factory, some owners have modified the interior storage to suit long-distance racing (such as the Van Isle 360) versus family cruising. Sibling models built on similar design principles include the Martin 242, which is a dedicated one-design racer, and the larger Martin 32, which offers more substantial cruising amenities on a more powerful hull.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Martin 29 should conduct a thorough survey, focusing on the following areas typical of Martin Yachts’ composite construction from this era:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this vintage, the Martin 29 uses a balsa or foam core in the deck. Inspections should focus on high-load areas around the chainplates and stanchion bases for signs of delamination or moisture ingress.
• Rudder Bearings: The spade rudder is known for its responsiveness, but the bearings can wear over decades of use. Any "slop" or vibration at the helm may indicate the need for bearing replacement.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: Given the boat’s racing pedigree, it is essential to inspect the keel bolts and the "smile" at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. Any signs of movement suggest a history of hard groundings or the need for re-bedding.
• Rigging and Chainplates: Since these boats are often sailed hard in competitive environments, the standing rigging and the attachment points for the chainplates should be checked for fatigue and stress cracks in the fiberglass.

Community & Resources

Owners of the Martin 29 often find technical support and social connection through the broader Martin Yachts community. While it does not have the massive one-design association of the Martin 242, it is a frequent participant in events hosted by the Royal Vancouver Yacht Club and other regional sailing organizations. Technical discussions and historical data are often archived by local sailing associations in British Columbia and Washington State, where the majority of the fleet remains active today.

The Verdict

The Martin 29 remains a highly regarded choice for the sailor who refuses to sacrifice performance for comfort. It is a "sailor's boat" that rewards a fine touch on the helm while remaining forgiving enough for a family getaway.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and agility.
• High-quality composite construction for its era.
• Surprising interior headroom and volume for a 29-foot performance hull.
• Strong pedigree from a renowned designer.

Cons:

• Limited production numbers make finding one on the used market difficult.
• Potential for deck core issues if not meticulously maintained.
• Requires active sail trimming to perform at its peak potential.