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Sailboat Specifications

Ericson 29

Masthead Sloop · Fin W/Spade Rudder

Designed by Bruce King · Built by Ericson Yachts (Usa) · First built 1970

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LOA 28.58 ft  ·  Beam 9.25 ft  ·  Displacement 8,500.00 lb  ·  Sail Area 436.00 ft²  ·  Masthead Sloop  ·  Fin W/Spade Rudder
About the Ericson 29 Sailboat

Designed by the renowned Bruce King and built by Ericson Yachts from 1970 to 1978, this 29-footer represents a classic example of early 1970s performance cruising design. King's influence shows clearly in the boat's balanced proportions and moderate displacement of 8,500 pounds, creating a versatile platform that appeals to both weekend cruisers and more ambitious coastal sailors. The fin keel and spade rudder configuration delivers responsive handling and decent pointing ability, while the masthead sloop rig with 436 square feet of sail area provides adequate power for most conditions. With a comfort ratio of 28.3, the boat strikes a middle ground between performance and seaworthiness, making it suitable for coastal cruising with occasional offshore passages in experienced hands. The Ericson 29's fiberglass construction has proven durable over the decades, and many examples remain active on the used boat market. Hull speed reaches 6.29 knots, respectable for a boat of this size and era. The 30-horsepower auxiliary engine provides reliable power when the wind dies. This design appeals particularly to sailors seeking an affordable entry into larger boat ownership, offering a good balance of sailing performance, basic cruising amenities, and manageable size for smaller crews or single-handers.

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Balsa core was used in the deck construction, and water intrusion around deck hardware fittings that were not properly rebedded causes soft spots and core rot, particularly around chainplates, stanchion bases, and the mast partners.
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The encapsulated ballast keel on some hulls used iron ballast encapsulated in the fiberglass shell. If the laminate is cracked at the keel stub, water intrusion causes the iron to swell and rust, cracking the fiberglass further from the inside out.
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Chainplate knees are glassed to the hull liner and bulkheads, and the glass tabbing can crack or delaminate where it bonds to the liner rather than the hull skin. This is a known weakness in Ericson construction of this era and should be carefully inspected.
+ 5 more issues — see full list →
Market Price Estimate Beta
Small sample size. This estimate is based on fewer than 5 listings and may not be representative of the true market. Use with caution.
$8,888 – $9,950
typical asking price
Median $8,888  ·  3 listings used
All listings
$8,888 – $9,950 3
About this estimate ▾
Dimensions & Specifications
LOA (Length Overall) 28.58 ft / 8.71 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 22.00 ft / 6.71 m
Beam 9.25 ft / 2.82 m
Max Draft 4.33 ft / 1.32 m
Displacement 8,500.00 lb / 3,856 kg
Ballast 3,900.00 lb / 1,769 kg
Ballast Type Lead
Sail Area (Reported) 436.00 ft² / 40.51 m²
Headroom 6.17 ft / 1.88 m
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Masthead Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Bruce King
Builder Ericson Yachts (USA)
First Built 1970
Last Built 1978
Associations Ericson Yachts Information
Related Sailboats Ericson 28 · Ranger 29 Mull · Cc 29 2 · Columbia 29 · San Juan 28
Owner Reviews

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Engine & Accommodations
Engine Make Universal
Engine Model Atomic 4
Engine Type Gas
Horsepower 30
Fuel Capacity 12 gals / 45 L
Water Capacity 20 gals / 76 L
Frequently Asked Questions

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

The Ericson 29 has a Sail Area to Displacement ratio (SA/D) of 16.8. Values between 14–18 are typical cruising sailboats; 18–22 is cruiser/racer; over 22 is performance racing.

What is the Ericson 29's comfort ratio?

The Ericson 29 has a Ted Brewer Comfort Ratio of 28.3. A ratio over 30 indicates good offshore comfort; over 40 is very comfortable offshore.

Is the Ericson 29 safe for offshore sailing?

The Ericson 29 has a Capsize Screening Formula value of 1.82. Values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing; under 1.8 is ideal.

What is the hull speed of the Ericson 29?

The theoretical hull speed of the Ericson 29 is 6.29 kn knots, calculated from its waterline length.

How much does a Ericson 29 weigh?

The Ericson 29 has a displacement of 8,500.00 lb and a length overall (LOA) of 28.58 ft.

How much does a used Ericson 29 cost?

Based on 3 recent market listings, used Ericson 29 sailboats typically sell for between $8,888 and $9,950, with a median asking price of $8,888. Price varies significantly based on year, condition, location, and included equipment.

Who designed the Ericson 29?

The Ericson 29 was designed by Bruce King, first built in 1970.