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Sailboat Specifications

Bristol 29

Masthead Sloop · Fin Keel

Designed by Halsey Herreshoff · Built by Bristol Yachts Inc. (Usa) · First built 1966

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LOA 29.00 ft  ·  Beam 9.17 ft  ·  Displacement 8,400.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 400  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin Keel
About the Bristol 29 Sailboat

Built by Bristol Yachts during the company's heyday, this 29-footer represents the builder's commitment to traditional construction and seaworthy design. Bristol earned a sterling reputation for producing well-built fiberglass sailboats that combined classic aesthetics with reliable performance, and the Bristol 29 continues this tradition. This mid-sized cruiser appeals to sailors seeking a manageable yet capable boat for coastal cruising and weekend adventures. The design emphasizes comfort and sailing ability over pure speed, making it well-suited for couples or small families who value quality construction and proven seaworthiness. Bristol's attention to detail in both the hull layup and interior joinery has helped these boats maintain their value over the decades. The Bristol 29 offers enough space for extended cruising while remaining small enough for single-handed sailing when needed. Its moderate proportions and conservative sail plan provide predictable handling characteristics that inspire confidence in varying conditions. For sailors prioritizing build quality and traditional sailing virtues over cutting-edge performance, the Bristol 29 represents a solid choice in the competitive 29-foot market segment.

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Market Price Estimate Beta
$3,000 – $9,500
typical asking price
Median $8,000  ·  5 listings used
All listings
$3,000 – $9,500 5
About this estimate ▾
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 29.00 ft / 8.84 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.67 ft / 6.91 m
Beam 9.17 ft / 2.80 m
Max Draft 4.50 ft / 1.37 m
Displacement 8,400.00 lb / 3,810 kg
Ballast 3,450.00 lb / 1,565 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 400
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin Keel
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Halsey Herreshoff
Builder Bristol Yachts Inc. (USA)
First Built 1966
Last Built 1971
Number Built 169
Related Sailboats Cal 29 · Cal 2 29 · C&C 29 · Islander 29 · Contest 29
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Fuel Capacity 25 gals / 95 L
Water Capacity 50 gals / 189 L
Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Bristol 29's sail area to displacement ratio?

The Bristol 29 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 15.54. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Bristol 29's comfort ratio?

The Bristol 29 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 27.61. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Bristol 29 safe for offshore sailing?

The Bristol 29 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.81. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Bristol 29?

The theoretical hull speed of the Bristol 29 is 6.38 knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Bristol 29 weigh?

The Bristol 29 has a displacement of 8,400.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 29.00 ft.

How much does a used Bristol 29 cost?

Based on 5 recent market listings, used Bristol 29 sailboats typically sell for between $3,000 and $9,500, with a median asking price of $8,000. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Bristol 29?

The Bristol 29 was designed by Halsey Herreshoff, first built in 1966.