Tanzer 29 Information, Review, Specs

Sailing Performance & Handling

The Tanzer 29 is characterized by a moderate displacement-to-length ratio and a generous beam of 10 feet, 2 inches, which provides significant initial stability. On the water, the boat is known for its stiff sailing characteristics; it carries its canvas well into freshening breezes before requiring a reef. The masthead sloop rig is typically paired with a fin keel drawing over five feet, though a shoal draft version was produced to accommodate thinner waters.

In terms of handling, the 29-footer tracks more reliably than the smaller Tanzer 22 or 26, thanks to its increased waterline and a balanced spade rudder that offers a responsive feel at the helm. However, because of its relatively high freeboard and wide beam, it can be prone to windage when maneuvering in tight slips. Owners often report that the boat finds its "groove" at a 15-degree heel, where the hull’s secondary stability kicks in. While it lacks the raw acceleration of a pure racing hull, its Sail Area/Displacement ratio (approximately 16.5) ensures it remains active in light air, provided the bottom is clean and the sails are not blown out.

Interior Comfort & Variations

One of the defining features of the Tanzer 29 is its interior volume, which rivals many 32-footers of the same vintage. The design utilized the maximum beam to create a social salon featuring a U-shaped settee to port and a straight settee to starboard. The use of a fiberglass interior liner, combined with teak bulkheads and trim, gives the cabin a finished, durable appearance.

The most notable departure from previous Tanzer models is the inclusion of a dedicated aft cabin or an expansive quarter berth area, depending on the specific hull's year of production. This layout move, influenced by the burgeoning "Euro-style" cruisers of the mid-80s, allowed for a private sleeping area tucked under the cockpit sole—a rarity for a 29-foot boat in 1984. The T-shaped cockpit above allows the helmsman to sit well outboard with good sightlines, while still keeping the companionway accessible. Sibling models built during this era, such as the Tanzer 27 and the Tanzer 31, share this design language, though the 29 is often cited as the "sweet spot" in the range for single-handed sailors who still wish to host a family of four.

Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist

Prospective buyers should approach a Tanzer 29 with a checklist tailored to mid-80s fiberglass production methods. While the hulls are generally solid, the following areas require scrutiny:

• Deck Core Integrity: Like many boats of this era, the Tanzer 29 uses a balsa-cored deck. Moisture ingress around the stanchion bases, chainplates, and the mast step is common. Soft spots in the cockpit sole or around the forward hatch are high-signal indicators of core delamination.
• Keel-to-Hull Joint: The "Tanzer Smile"—a crack at the leading edge of the keel-to-hull joint—can appear if the keel bolts have not been torqued to spec or if the boat has experienced a grounding. While often cosmetic, deep weeping or rust staining requires a closer look at the stainless steel keel bolts.
• Portlight Leaks: The original plastic-framed portlights are prone to UV degradation and leaking. Many owners have replaced these with aftermarket stainless or aluminum units to preserve the interior teak.
• Engine Maintenance: Most Tanzer 29s were equipped with Yanmar or Universal diesel engines. Check for corrosion on the exhaust riser and ensure the raw water strainer is easily accessible, as the engine compartment can be tight for major repairs.

Community & Resources

The primary hub for technical data and historical documentation for this model is the Tanzer 22 Class Association, which, despite its name, serves as the de facto repository for information on all Tanzer models. They maintain archives of original brochures and technical drawings that are invaluable for restoration projects. Regional groups, particularly in Montreal and the Chesapeake Bay, frequently organize "Tanzer-fest" regattas where the 29 is a regular participant in the cruising class.

The Verdict

The Tanzer 29 is a versatile, overbuilt cruiser that offers a high degree of comfort and safety for its size. It is an ideal step-up boat for those transitioning from smaller daysailers who want the capability to spend a week or more on the water without feeling cramped.

Pros:

• Exceptional interior volume and "big boat" layout for a 29-footer.
• Stiff, predictable handling in heavy weather.
• Robust Canadian construction with high-quality fiberglass work.

Cons:

• Relatively high windage makes docking a challenge in a crosswind.
• Potential for costly balsa-core repairs if deck hardware was not re-bedded.
• Limited production numbers make finding one on the used market difficult outside of Canada.