Seafarer 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Seafarer 29 is characterized by a moderate-displacement hull and a relatively high ballast-to-displacement ratio (typically exceeding 35%), which translates to a stiff, predictable motion in a seaway. With a displacement of approximately 6,300 lbs and a sail area often cited around 380 square feet, the boat possesses a Sail Area/Displacement ratio of roughly 17.8. This figure suggests a vessel that is more than a mere "plodding" cruiser; it is capable of respectable performance in light airs while maintaining the composure necessary for heavy-weather coastal passages.

In handling, the boat is noted for its directional stability, a hallmark of the McCurdy & Rhodes "tracking" hull shape. Unlike the flat-bottomed, fin-keel designs that began to dominate the racing circuit in the 1980s, the Seafarer 29 retains a slightly deeper forefoot and a well-proportioned skeg-mounted rudder. This configuration minimizes the "hunting" behavior often seen in modern light-displacement boats when sailing downwind or in a following sea. Owner anecdotes frequently highlight the boat's ability to be balanced under sail to the point where it can hold a course with minimal helm input, a trait highly valued by solo sailors and couples.

Interior Comfort & Variations

The interior of the Seafarer 29 was designed to maximize the utility of its 28' 6" LOA, offering a layout that was remarkably spacious for its era. Most hull configurations feature a traditional arrangement: a V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head compartment, and a main salon with a folding bulkhead table. A key variation often found in this model is the "Seafarer 29-2" or updated interior versions, which occasionally rearranged the galley from a linear port-side setup to a more compact L-shape near the companionway.

Headroom is a notable highlight for a boat of this size, measuring nearly 6 feet in the main cabin, which allows for comfortable movement without the "crawling" sensation common in many 27-to-29-footers of the same vintage. The use of warm teak bulkheads and trim was standard, though as the original builder context notes, the kit-built versions may feature custom woodwork ranging from professional-grade cabinetry to more utilitarian plywood finishes. Storage is ample, with bins behind the settees and lockers under the berths, reflecting the boat's intended purpose as a weekend or week-long coastal cruiser.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Seafarer 29 with a focus on the structural nuances of 1970s fiberglass construction.

1. Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this period, Seafarer utilized balsa-cored decks. High-moisture readings or "spongy" spots around stanchion bases, the mast step, and the chainplates are common. Any Seafarer 29 that has not had its deck hardware re-bedded in the last decade is a prime candidate for core rot.
2. The "Seafarer Smile": Owners frequently report stress cracks at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint. While often cosmetic and caused by the flexing of the hull under load, deep or repeating cracks may indicate the need for re-torquing the keel bolts or reinforcing the internal floors.
3. Mast Step Compression: The deck-stepped mast relies on a compression post typically hidden behind teak trim. Buyers should inspect the base of this post and the overhead deck area for signs of sagging, which can lead to rig tension issues and door-alignment problems in the head.
4. Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates on the 29 pass through the deck and are bolted to the bulkheads. Leakage here is not just a nuisance; it can rot the structural bulkheads over time, compromising the rig's safety.
5. Engine Access: While originally equipped with either the Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine or a small Yanmar diesel, the engine compartment is relatively tight. Check for "re-power" history, as the older Atomic 4 engines require meticulous maintenance of the cooling and fuel systems to remain safe and reliable.

Community & Resources

The Seafarer legacy is maintained by a dedicated community of owners who value the brand’s "classic plastic" status. The primary hub for technical exchange is the Seafarer Yacht Owners Group, which hosts an extensive archive of original brochures and owner-contributed repair manuals. While no formal factory support has existed since the mid-1980s, these enthusiast groups are essential for sourcing specifications for the various McCurdy & Rhodes iterations and the earlier Tripp-designed siblings.

The Verdict

The Seafarer 29 remains a standout choice for the sailor who prioritizes classic lines and sea-kindly handling over modern interior volume and "planing" speeds. It is a quintessential coastal cruiser that feels larger than its length would suggest.

Pros:

• Exceptional Pedigree: Designed by McCurdy & Rhodes, offering superior balance and tracking.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Classic profile with a graceful sheer line and well-proportioned coachroof.
• Construction: Heavy hand-laid fiberglass layup that provides a sense of security in heavy weather.

Cons:

• Maintenance Intensive: Aging balsa cores and original plumbing/wiring often require significant updates.
• Variable Finish: Kit-built models may lack the refinement and resale value of factory-finished units.
• Tight Engine Space: Routine maintenance on the inboard engine can be physically demanding due to limited access.