The Bayfield 29 is a popular sailing boat known for its classic design and sturdy construction. It was built by Bayfield Boat Yard in Ontario, Canada, from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. The boat was designed by Ted Gozzard, who aimed to create a vessel that combined traditional aesthetics with modern performance.
The Bayfield 29 has a full keel, which provides excellent stability and tracking ability. It has a displacement of around 8,000 pounds (3,600 kg) and a length overall (LOA) of 29 feet (8.8 meters). The boat has a beam of 10 feet (3 meters) and a draft of 3.8 feet (1.2 meters), making it suitable for both coastal cruising and offshore passages.
One of the standout features of the Bayfield 29 is its spacious and comfortable interior. The cabin layout typically includes a V-berth forward, a main salon with a settee and a folding dining table, a galley with a stove, sink, and icebox, and a head compartment with a marine toilet. The boat can accommodate up to four people for overnight trips.
The Bayfield 29 is known for its solid construction, with a hand-laid fiberglass hull and a fiberglass deck. The boat's design incorporates a clipper bow, a wineglass transom, and a traditional sheerline, giving it a classic and timeless appearance. The boat also features a bowsprit, which allows for the attachment of a headsail, increasing the sail area and improving performance.
In terms of sailing performance, the Bayfield 29 is not a particularly fast boat, but it is known for its stability and comfortable motion at sea. It is often praised for its ability to handle rough weather conditions and its forgiving nature. The boat is typically rigged as a cutter, with a mainsail, a headsail, and a staysail, providing versatility in different wind conditions.
Overall, the Bayfield 29 is a well-regarded sailing boat that appeals to those who appreciate classic design, solid construction, and comfortable cruising. Its traditional aesthetics, spacious interior, and seaworthiness make it a popular choice for sailors looking for a reliable and timeless vessel.
