Samphire 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Samphire 29 is defined by its long keel and heavy displacement, characteristics that dictate a deliberate and predictable motion at sea. With a high ballast ratio, the boat is exceptionally stiff, often carrying full sail well after lighter cruisers of similar length have been forced to reef. This stability is a hallmark of David Cannell’s design philosophy, which focuses on creating vessels that look after their crew in heavy weather.

In terms of handling, the Samphire 29 is a superlative tracker. Once the sails are trimmed, she will hold a course with minimal helm input, making her an ideal candidate for windvane self-steering. However, this directional stability comes with the classic trade-off common to long-keelers: maneuverability in tight marinas can be challenging. Stern-board control is limited, and the boat often requires a proactive approach to prop-walk when backing into a berth. Under sail, she excels on a reach or a run, where her momentum allows her to punch through head seas that would stop lighter boats in their tracks. While not a "greyhound" in light winds, owners frequently note that the 29 maintains a respectable average speed over long distances because she does not need to deviate for comfort.

Interior Comfort & Variations

For a vessel of 29 feet, the interior of the Samphire 29 feels remarkably cavernous, a result of the generous beam and relatively high topsides. The layout typically follows a traditional offshore arrangement designed for safety at sea. Most models feature five berths: a V-berth in the forward cabin, a dinette in the saloon that converts to a double, and a wide quarter berth to starboard, tucked behind the navigation station.

The joinery is predominantly teak or mahogany, reflecting the era’s preference for warm, substantial wood finishes. Unlike the Samphire 23, which can feel cramped for a family, the 29 offers genuine standing headroom—often exceeding six feet—throughout the main cabin. The galley is usually positioned to port, featuring a deep sink and a gimballed stove, positioned near the companionway for optimal ventilation. While the Samphire 26 was often criticized for its tight heads compartment, the 29 utilizes the extra three feet of hull length to provide a more functional marine toilet and wet locker arrangement. No significant hull variations were produced, though some owners have retrofitted the vessel with a cutter rig to improve sail handling options in heavy weather.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers of a Samphire 29 should focus their inspection on the structural integrity of the hull and the condition of the original machinery.

1. Osmotic Blistering: Like many British GRP boats built in the late 1970s, the Samphire range can be prone to osmosis. While rarely a structural failure, a hull survey should check for moisture levels in the laminate.
2. Deck Core Condition: The decks are typically balsa-cored. Buyers should check for "soft spots" around high-load fittings, such as the stanchion bases and the mast step, where water ingress may have delaminated the core over the decades.
3. Engine Longevity: Many 29s were originally fitted with Bukh or Yanmar diesel engines. While robust, these units may be reaching the end of their service life. Evidence of consistent maintenance or a recent repower adds significant value.
4. Rudder Hardware: The transom-hung or skeg-supported rudders on these models should be inspected for play in the pintles and gudgeons. Any significant "wobble" suggests the need for bushing replacement.
5. Chainplate Leakage: Ensure that the stainless steel chainplates, which penetrate the deck, have been regularly re-bedded. Undetected leaks here can lead to hidden rot in the bulkheads to which they are bolted.

Community & Resources

Owners of Samphire yachts often find technical support through the broader community of David Cannell design enthusiasts. While North Sea Craft is no longer in operation, technical drawings and design specifications are occasionally available through the archives of naval architects specializing in traditional GRP yachts. The Samphire Owners Association historically served as a hub for the 23, 26, and 29 models, providing a repository for manual scans and restoration advice.

The Verdict

The Samphire 29 is a robust, "proper" yacht for the sailor who values security and classic aesthetics over modern planing performance. She is a vessel that encourages voyaging beyond coastal waters, offering a level of comfort and safety rarely found in modern 29-footers.

Pros:

• Exceptional sea-kindliness and heavy-weather stability.
• Timeless, traditional aesthetics that turn heads in any harbor.
• Solid GRP construction with high-quality interior joinery.
• Excellent directional tracking, reducing helm fatigue.

Cons:

• Difficult to maneuver in reverse due to the long keel.
• Relatively sluggish performance in light air (under 8 knots of wind).
• Maintenance requirements of an older GRP hull (potential for osmosis/deck leaks).