CAL 2-29
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 29 ft |
| LWL | 24 ft |
| Beam | 9.25 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 8,000 lb |
| Ballast | 3,350.4 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.6 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 37 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 12.33 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 31.67 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 12.25 ft |
| FLforestay | 12.3 ft |
| Mainsail | 437.6 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 228.1 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 387.8 sq ft |
About the CAL 2-29
According to the CAL 29 brochure, the CAL 2-29 is a "special cruising version of the CAL 29...and includes, as standard equipment, a diesel engine, pressurized shower, pedestal steering, vanity with medicine chest, electric bilge pump, extra water tank and shore power system." So both the 29 and the 2-29 must have been built at the same time, though the first 2-29 must have been introduced somewhat later than the standard 29. Many thanks to David Burnham, CAL 2-29 owner, who solved this mystery and kindly offered his original brochures to prove the case.
Designed by William Lapworth and built by Jensen Marine (USA) from 1974–1978, the CAL 2-29 is a robust 29-foot coastal cruiser with 387 hulls produced. Its reputation is defined by a heavy displacement of 8000.0 lb and a comfortable motion, though owners frequently report structural maintenance challenges.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize comfort and stability over high-speed performance, particularly those willing to commit to proactive structural maintenance.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 8000.0 lb and a low capsize ratio of 1.85, the boat is structurally capable of offshore passages, though its fin keel and moderate draft of 4.5 ft limit it to coastal and nearshore bluewater cruising rather than extreme ocean voyaging.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 3-30 and O'Day 30, which share similar beam dimensions and heavy-displacement cruising characteristics from the same era.
Direct variant of the CAL 2-29
Near-identical models — same hull, builder and designer, re-badged or lightly changed. Specs and owner-reported issues are typically shared across the group, so a sister model's page may carry detail this one doesn't.
Performance
Estimated Value
Low ConfidenceEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 29ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
26 reported issues across 9 systems for the CAL 2-29, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAL 2-29? This is an in-depth report on the faults this model is known for — so you know exactly what to check when you walk the boat. For the price of a coffee.
- ✓ All 26 specific issues — severity, symptoms & fixes
- ✓ Model-specific pre-purchase inspection checklist
- ✓ Downloadable PDF to take to your surveyor — yours to keep
One-time $2.99 · secure checkout by Stripe · instant access · 30 days online, PDF yours to keep
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your CAL 2-29?
We haven't confirmed the engine for this model yet. If you own or know one, tell us — as owners report in, we build an accurate picture over time.
Brands sometimes mentioned for this model: Yanmar, Westerbeke, Bukh, Universal — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the CAL 2-29
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…