The GK 29 (Westerly) is a popular sailing boat that was designed by Van de Stadt Design and built by Westerly Yachts in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is a small to medium-sized cruiser-racer sailboat that offers a good balance between performance and comfort.
Here are some key features and characteristics of the GK 29:
1. Design: The GK 29 features a sleek and modern design with a fin keel and a spade rudder. It has a moderate displacement and a relatively narrow beam, which contributes to its good sailing performance.
2. Construction: The boat is constructed using a solid fiberglass hull, which provides strength and durability. The deck is also made of fiberglass, and the interior is typically finished with teak woodwork.
3. Dimensions: The GK 29 has an overall length of around 29 feet (8.8 meters) and a beam of about 9.8 feet (3 meters). It has a draft of approximately 5.2 feet (1.6 meters), which allows for good stability and upwind performance.
4. Sailing Performance: The GK 29 is known for its excellent sailing performance, both in light winds and heavy weather conditions. It has a well-balanced sail plan, with a large mainsail and a smaller headsail, which allows for easy handling and good upwind performance.
5. Interior Layout: The interior of the GK 29 is designed to provide comfortable accommodations for a small crew or family. It typically features a V-berth in the forward cabin, a main saloon with settees that can convert into berths, a galley with a stove and sink, a navigation station, and a head compartment.
6. Comfort and Amenities: Despite its relatively compact size, the GK 29 offers a decent level of comfort and amenities. It has standing headroom in the main saloon, good ventilation with opening hatches and ports, and ample storage space for provisions and personal belongings.
7. Popularity: The GK 29 has gained popularity among sailors due to its versatility and affordability. It is often praised for its solid construction, good sailing characteristics, and comfortable interior layout.
Overall, the GK 29 (Westerly) is a well-regarded sailboat that offers a combination of performance, comfort, and affordability. It is suitable for both cruising and club racing, making it a popular choice among sailing enthusiasts.
