San Juan 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

Under sail, the San Juan 29 is characterized by its responsiveness and "light-footed" feel, a common trait of Don Clark designs optimized for the light-to-moderate winds of the Pacific Northwest. The boat features a high-aspect masthead rig and a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio, which provides a stiff, stable platform compared to many other "trailerable" cruisers of the same vintage. Its underwater profile typically consists of a deep fin keel and a balanced spade rudder, allowing for tight tracking and an exceptionally small turning radius.

In terms of technical performance, the boat’s moderate displacement and generous sail area allow it to accelerate quickly out of tacks. Owners frequently report that the 29 performs best when sailed "flat," as the hull shape can become somewhat temperamental if over-canvassed in heavy gusts. The cockpit layout is designed for efficiency, with primary winches placed within easy reach of the helm, making it a viable candidate for short-handed sailing. While technical ratios like the Sail Area/Displacement (SA/D) lean toward the performance end of the cruiser-racer spectrum, the boat maintains a sea-kindly motion in a chop, avoiding the "pounding" often associated with flatter-bottomed racing hulls of the IOR era.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the San Juan 29 was a notable step up in sophistication from the earlier 28 model. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head compartment, which provided more privacy than the "walk-through" heads found on smaller models. In the main salon, the use of teak bulkheads and trim was standard, reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship of the Kent, Washington, and New Bern, North Carolina, factories.

The 29 often incorporated a "T-shaped" cockpit, which allowed for a more ergonomic helmsman position while simultaneously creating more room in the aft section of the cabin. Depending on the specific production year, variations included a dedicated navigation station and a compact galley equipped with a two-burner stove and a deep icebox. The headroom is approximately 6'1", which was generous for a 29-foot boat in the 1980s. A notable sibling variation is the San Juan 28, which shared the same hull but featured a different deck mold and interior arrangement; the 29 is often preferred by those seeking a more modern, open-concept cabin feel.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a San Juan 29 with a focused inspection plan, as these vessels are now entering their fifth decade of service.

1. Balsa Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the San Juan 29 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress is common around the chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast step. Buyers should use a moisture meter or perform a "tap test" with a plastic hammer to check for delamination.
2. Mast Step Compression: The mast is deck-stepped, supported by a compression post that transfers the load to the keel. If the wooden block at the base of the compression post or the deck core beneath the mast has rotted, it can lead to "settling," causing the rigging to go slack and interior doors to bind.
3. Keel Bolt Oxidation: The lead fin keel is attached with stainless steel bolts. These should be inspected for "weeping" or rust streaks in the bilge, which may indicate that the keel-to-hull joint (the "smile") needs re-bedding.
4. Rudder Post Play: The spade rudder is a high-performance feature but is susceptible to wear in the bushings. Excess play in the helm or water entry through the rudder stuffing box is a common maintenance item that requires attention during a haul-out.

Community & Resources

Owners of the San Juan 29 often find support through broader Clark Boat Company communities. While there is no longer a dedicated factory-backed association for the 29 specifically, the San Juan 21 Class Association remains a primary hub for the brand's history and general technical advice regarding Clark's construction methods. Additionally, the San Juan 28/29 groups on various sailing forums serve as an informal technical wiki where owners share specific data on engine replacements (typically Yanmar or Volvo Penta diesels) and rigging specifications.

The Verdict

The San Juan 29 remains a standout choice for the sailor who values performance and classic lines over the "caravan-style" volume of modern coastal cruisers. It is a boat that rewards a skilled hand at the helm while providing enough comfort for extended coastal hops.

Pros:

• Excellent light-air performance and agility.
• High-quality fiberglass construction and interior joinery.
• Strong aesthetics with a low-profile cabin trunk.
• Active used market with strong parts availability for common components.

Cons:

• Susceptible to deck core rot if neglected.
• The spade rudder requires more maintenance than a skeg-hung design.
• Interior volume is less than modern "wide-beam" 29-footers.