CAL 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 |
Engine
| Universal | Atomic 430 hpSee all 6 parts → |
About the CAL 29
The CAL 29 was one of this builders most popular models. The CAL 2-29, introduced somewhat later, was the same boat but with a number of extra features that came as standard equipment. (see CAL 2-29 for more details.) It appears that, for a time, both versions were being built simultaneously. Including both versions, more than 1000 were built. Special thanks to CAL 2-29 owner David Burnham for providing the information that finally solved this mystery.
Designed by William Lapworth and built by Jensen Marine (USA) from 1968–1974, the CAL 29 is a classic American cruiser with 624 hulls produced. Its moderate displacement of 8000.0 lb and fin keel configuration reflect a design philosophy balancing performance with coastal cruising comfort.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and weekend sailors who prioritize a spacious interior and manageable size, as well as owners willing to commit to significant maintenance of aging fiberglass structures.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a capsize ratio of 1.85 and a D/L ratio of 258.35, the CAL 29 offers moderate offshore stability, though its age and reported structural issues require rigorous inspection before extended passages.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats include the Cal 30 and O'Day 28, which share similar production eras, moderate displacement, and a focus on family-friendly coastal cruising rather than extreme bluewater performance.
Direct variant of the CAL 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 ConfidenceAsking price by model year
7 listings · boat years 1970–1979 · median $8,500
Each dot is one listing · hover for details · dashed red line marks the median · obvious data-entry outliers (top & bottom 2.5%) excluded.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 29ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Featured YouTube Videos
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
15 reported issues across 6 systems for the CAL 29, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a CAL 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 15 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
Engine Parts & Maintenance
The engines most commonly fitted to this model. “All parts” opens the engine's full catalogue; each part links to a matching listing on 
or 
matched to its part number.
Don't see your engine listed? Search all engines → to find parts for the exact engine fitted to your boat.
Prices are reference figures — confirm the current price on Amazon. Always confirm fitment against your engine's model and serial before ordering. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Used sails that fit the CAL 29
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…