Mull Ranger 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Ranger 29 is widely regarded as a "stiff" and powerful sailor, largely due to its exceptional ballast ratio of nearly 47%. With roughly 3,130 pounds of lead encapsulated in its keel against a total displacement of 6,700 pounds, the boat stands up well to a breeze and offers a sense of security often lacking in lighter 29-footers. Its displacement-to-length ratio falls in the moderate category, providing enough momentum to punch through chop while remaining responsive in light air.

On the water, the boat tracks well and maintains a balanced helm, provided the sail plan is managed correctly. While the boat is seaworthy enough for significant coastal passages, owners often note that it can become tender if over-canvassed, suggesting a "reef early" philosophy in winds exceeding 15 knots. Its PHRF rating, typically ranging between 180 and 195, keeps it competitive in modern club racing, where it is known for its ability to out-point many contemporary cruisers of the same size.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of its vintage and size, the Ranger 29 offers surprising interior volume, highlighted by a generous 6'2" of standing headroom. The layout is a classic example of early 1970s design: a forward V-berth followed by a private marine head and a hanging locker. The main salon features two straight settees that double as berths, with a fold-down table that clears the floor space during the day.

The galley is positioned aft, near the companionway for ventilation, typically featuring a two-burner stove and a stainless steel sink. A notable sibling variation is found in the Ranger 33, which utilized a very similar layout but with expanded proportions, while the newer Ranger 28 introduced more "tumblehome" (hull curvature) and a bolt-on keel compared to the Ranger 29's encapsulated design. Materials throughout the interior emphasize utility and warmth, using teak bulkheads and trim against a white fiberglass overhead liner.

Popular Mentions & Media

The Ranger 29 maintains a quiet but dedicated following in the "classic plastic" community. It has gained minor fame in the Pacific Northwest and California cruising circuits for its durability in expedition-style sailing. One notable example, the "Great Blue Heron," documented thousands of miles of coastal cruising in the remote waters of British Columbia, demonstrating the boat's capability for extended voyages beyond simple weekend use. The model is also occasionally cited in historical contexts regarding the Single-Handed Transpacific Race (SHTP), where Mull-designed Rangers have a history of participation.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach the Ranger 29 with a focus on its structural "bones," specifically regarding 50-year-old fiberglass and hardware.

• Compression Post Fatigue: A primary concern is the base of the deck-stepped mast compression post. Over time, the fiberglass and wood at the cabin sole can compress or rot, causing the deck to sag. Look for hairline cracks in the gel coat or doors that no longer close properly.
• Keel Sump and Tabbing: Unlike the Ranger 28, the Ranger 29 features an encapsulated keel. However, the internal structural grid and bulkheads that provide rigidity to the keel sump can suffer from de-tabbing (the fiberglass "tape" peeling away from the hull). A "wobble" in the keel during a survey lift is a high-signal indicator of this failure.
• Window Leaks: The Ranger 29 uses distinctive curved window frames that are notoriously difficult to seal or replace. Because the cabin house has a significant radius, standard off-the-shelf portlights will not fit without custom modifications.
• Deck Core Delamination: The decks are typically cored with marine plywood or balsa. Stress points around stanchion bases and the chainplates are common entry points for moisture, leading to soft spots that require labor-intensive core replacement.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for owners is the Ranger Yachts Owners group and various regional "Mull Design" enthusiast forums. While there is no longer a factory-supported association, the community is active in sharing technical drawings and solutions for repowering the original Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engines with modern diesel alternatives like the Beta 20 or Yanmar 2GM20F.

The Verdict

The Ranger 29 is a stout, performance-minded cruiser that excels in coastal conditions and light-to-moderate racing. It offers a rare combination of "big boat" headroom and a high ballast ratio in a compact, manageable package.

Pros:

• Excellent 6'2" headroom for its size.
• High ballast ratio (47%) provides a stable, stiff sailing platform.
• Encapsulated keel eliminates the risk of keel-bolt failure.
• Competitive PHRF rating for club racing.

Cons:

• Original Atomic 4 gasoline engines require rigorous maintenance or costly replacement.
• Curved cabin windows are difficult to repair or replace.
• Susceptible to compression post and keel sump structural fatigue.
• The "stern-heavy" look when at rest can be aesthetically divisive.