Sailing Performance & Handling
On the water, the US 29 behaves with the characteristic agility of a fin-keel, spade-rudder design of the early 1980s. With a focus on reducing wetted surface area compared to the heavier full-keel cruisers of the previous decade, the US 29 is notably responsive in light to moderate air. According to historical technical reviews in Cruising World, the vessel was marketed as a "performance cruiser," a claim supported by its relatively high sail area-to-displacement ratio.
Handling is generally described as light, though the boat’s high-volume hull and significant beam can lead to rounding up if over-canvassed in heavy gusts. Its tracking is adequate for coastal hops, but the spade rudder provides a "touchy" feel that requires an active hand on the helm compared to more traditional designs. Owners frequently note that the boat finds its "groove" at moderate heel angles, though the flat-bottomed sections forward can lead to pounding when punching into a steep head sea—a common trade-off for the interior volume provided by its hull shape.
Interior Comfort & Variations
The US 29 was a leader in its class for interior ergonomics, utilizing nearly every inch of its 10-foot beam. The layout typically features a traditional V-berth forward, followed by a full-width head—a luxury for a 29-footer of that era. The main salon utilizes a settee arrangement that converts into additional berths, and the inclusion of a genuine quarter berth aft of the galley allows the boat to theoretically sleep six adults, though four is the practical limit for cruising comfort.
The interior aesthetic relies heavily on molded fiberglass liners and teak accents. This "liner" construction method, which Bayliner perfected in its powerboat lines, allowed for a clean, easy-to-maintain bilge and consistent structural points for cabinetry. Sibling models, such as the US 27 and the larger US 30 (originally the Corinthian 30), share this design DNA. While the US 27 feels decidedly more like a "pocket" cruiser, the US 29 offers the standing headroom (approximately 6'1") and galley amenities—including a recessed stove and icebox—that allow for extended weekend trips or week-long coastal voyages.
Known Issues & Buyer’s Checklist
Prospective buyers of a US 29 should approach the vessel with a focus on its structural "bones," as Bayliner’s high-volume production methods sometimes resulted in varied finishing quality.
- Deck Coring: Like many boats from the 1980s, the US 29 utilizes a balsa-cored deck. If deck hardware, such as stanchion bases or cleat mounts, has not been regularly re-bedded, moisture can migrate into the core. High-signal reports from owner forums suggest checking for "spongy" areas around the mast step and the cockpit sole.
- Chainplate Leakage: The chainplates on the US 29 pass through the deck to internal structural members. Persistent leaks here can rot the plywood bulkheads they are attached to, potentially compromising the rig's tension.
- Spade Rudder Integrity: The spade rudder is a high-stress component. Buyers should inspect the rudder post for play in the bearings and check the fiberglass skin for signs of "osmotic blistering" or delamination, which can occur if water enters the internal foam core of the blade.
- Compression Post: Ensure the mast compression post and the structural block beneath it are sound. In some units, the load from a highly tensioned rig can cause the cabin top to sag slightly if the support system has been compromised by moisture.
The Verdict
The US 29 remains a highly accessible entry point for sailors looking for a "big" 29-foot boat that can handle club racing and family cruising with equal aplomb. While it may not carry the blue-water pedigree of a Bristol or a Cape Dory, its intelligent use of space and spirited performance make it an excellent value on the used market.
Pros
- Exceptional Volume: The 10-foot beam provides an interior that rivals many 32-footers of the same era.
- Light Air Performance: Efficient hull shape and generous sail plan make it a joy to sail in coastal summer breezes.
- Value: Often priced significantly lower than its competitors (like the Catalina 30) due to the "Bayliner" brand association.
Cons
- Build Consistency: Production-line construction means buyers must be diligent about checking for secondary bonding issues and core moisture.
- Heavy Weather Limitations: The light displacement and flat forward sections make for a bouncy, uncomfortable ride in a significant chop.
- Aesthetic Aging: The heavy use of fiberglass liners and faux-teak can feel dated compared to more traditional wood-heavy interiors.
