Sailing Performance & Handling
The Ohlson 29 is defined by its "big boat" feel, characterized by a high ballast ratio and a traditional underwater profile that includes a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder. With a displacement that leans toward the heavier side of the cruiser-racer spectrum, the boat exhibits remarkable sea-kindliness, slicing through chop rather than pounding over it. Its handling is often described as "stiff," a result of its deep-set ballast, which allows it to carry full sail longer than more modern, light-displacement hulls.
When sailing upwind, the Ohlson 29 tracks exceptionally well, requiring minimal helm correction once the sails are trimmed. This tracking ability is a hallmark of Einar Ohlson’s designs, which were often refined for the unpredictable conditions of the North Sea. While it may not possess the explosive off-the-wind speed of a modern planing hull, its performance in a breeze is formidable. Anecdotal evidence from long-term owners suggests the boat feels most at home in 15 to 20 knots of wind, where its momentum and balanced sail plan allow it to maintain high average speeds. The rig is typically a masthead sloop, which provides a powerful headsail area, making a high-quality furling system a common and necessary upgrade for short-handed sailors.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The interior of the Ohlson 29 reflects the craftsmanship of the Artekno shipyard, featuring extensive use of teak and mahogany that provides a warmth often missing in modern production boats. The layout is traditional, usually configured with a V-berth in the bow, a central saloon with a folding table, and a compact galley located near the companionway. Because of its narrow beam and low profile, headroom is functional but may feel restrictive for taller sailors, typically hovering around 5'10" (1.78m).
Storage is a notable strength of the design, with deep lockers and cubbies integrated into the cabinetry, intended for the "proper" offshore cruising that the boat’s hull is capable of. While most hulls follow the standard five-berth layout (including two settee berths and a quarter berth), Artekno occasionally varied the finishes depending on the specific export market. The Ohlson 29 is often compared to its smaller sibling, the Ohlson 8:8, which shares a similar aesthetic but offers a slightly different internal volume distribution. Another sibling of note is the larger Ohlson 38, which scaled this design philosophy into a world-class blue-water cruiser.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of an Ohlson 29 should focus on the technical realities of a boat built during the transition to mass-produced fiberglass. While the hulls are generally overbuilt and solid, specific areas require scrutiny:
- Deck Delamination: Artekno utilized a balsa-cored sandwich construction for the decks to save weight. Over decades, hardware such as stanchions or cleat mounts can develop leaks, leading to core rot. Soft spots on the side decks are a common "gotcha" that requires expensive repair.
- Rudder Assembly: The skeg-hung rudder is robust, but the internal framework and the bushings can wear over time. Any significant "play" in the tiller or vibration while under power should be investigated.
- Original Engines: Many Ohlson 29s were originally fitted with Volvo Penta MD7A or similar small diesel engines. While reliable, these units are now reaching the end of their mechanical lifespan; buyers should check for cooling passage blockages caused by salt-water scale.
- Mast Step Compression: The mast is deck-stepped, and the support post or the underlying structural grid can show signs of compression or fatigue if the rig has been consistently over-tensioned.
Community & Resources
The Ohlson 29 benefits from a dedicated following, particularly in the United Kingdom and Scandinavia. Technical information and heritage details are often maintained by the Ohlson 38 Class Association, which, despite its focus on the larger model, serves as a repository for Einar Ohlson’s design history and general technical specifications for the 29. In Finland, the Artekno heritage is still celebrated by local sailing clubs, where these boats are frequently seen participating in classic yacht regattas.
The Verdict
The Ohlson 29 is an ideal choice for the sailor who values traditional aesthetics, structural integrity, and superior upwind performance over modern "apartment" style interior volume. It is a sailor's boat, rewarding those who appreciate a well-balanced helm.
Pros:
- Exceptional heavy-weather stability and tracking.
- High-quality Finnish construction with beautiful interior joinery.
- Timeless, classic lines that stand out in a modern marina.
- Manageable size for solo or shorthanded sailing.
Cons:
- Limited interior headroom and narrow living quarters.
- Potential for balsa core issues in the deck.
- Slower in light air compared to modern light-displacement designs.
- Replacement parts for original Scandinavian hardware can be difficult to source.
