COMPASS 29
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 28.83 ft |
| LWL | 22.5 ft |
| Beam | 9.16 ft |
| Draft | 4.25 ft |
| Displacement | 7,826 lb |
| Ballast | 3,747.9 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
About the COMPASS 29
The COMPASS 29 is based on the hull of the COMPASS 28 with more freeboard, a revised deck and more interior space. The hull shape was also significantly modified. The COMPASS 29 was supposed to replaced the COMPASS 28. But many new customers preferred the more traditional appearance of the earlier boat, so that, at least for a certain period of time, both models were built and sold concurrently. Specs from drawing in Australian Yachtsman, third edition, by Geoffrey Raebel
Designed by Gunter Heuchmer & Don Lees and built by Compass Yachts Ltd. (AU), the Compass 29 is a robust Australian cruiser with 375 hulls produced between 1974–1981. Its full/long keel and masthead sloop rig provide a stable, traditional platform that prioritizes seakeeping over high-speed performance.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and conservative bluewater travelers who value a heavy, stable ride and low maintenance over rapid planing speeds. It is well-suited for couples or small families seeking a safe, comfortable offshore passage maker.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a displacement of 7826.0 lb and a capsize ratio of 1.85, the Compass 29 is highly capable offshore, offering excellent stability and a forgiving motion in heavy seas.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to the Hallberg-Rassy 32 and Oyster 32 due to similar full-keel, heavy-displacement designs from the same era. These boats share the Compass 29's emphasis on safety, comfort, and offshore capability over racing performance.
Performance
ORC Performance Data(1 certificate)
Measured performance data from ORC (Offshore Racing Congress) certificates.
Polar Diagram
Boat speed (kn) vs. true wind angle. Source: ORC
Racing Ratings
Triple Number
ORC Measured
Sail Areas (ORC)
Speed Table (kn)
| TWA \ TWS | 6 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 14 | 16 | 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52° | 4.0 | 4.7 | 5.3 | 5.6 | 5.9 | 6.0 | 6.2 |
| 60° | 4.2 | 5.0 | 5.5 | 5.8 | 6.0 | 6.2 | 6.4 |
| 75° | 4.3 | 5.1 | 5.7 | 6.0 | 6.2 | 6.3 | 6.6 |
| 90° | 4.5 | 5.4 | 6.0 | 6.3 | 6.5 | 6.6 | 6.8 |
| 110° | 4.6 | 5.5 | 6.1 | 6.4 | 6.6 | 6.9 | 7.3 |
| 120° | 4.5 | 5.4 | 6.0 | 6.3 | 6.6 | 6.9 | 7.4 |
| 135° | 4.0 | 5.0 | 5.8 | 6.2 | 6.4 | 6.7 | 7.2 |
| 150° | 3.5 | 4.4 | 5.2 | 5.8 | 6.2 | 6.4 | 6.9 |
| Beat VMG | 2.6 | 3.1 | 3.5 | 3.8 | 4.1 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
| Run VMG | 3.0 | 3.8 | 4.5 | 5.1 | 5.7 | 6.0 | 6.5 |
Estimated Value
Limited DataEstimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 28.83ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 3 systems for the COMPASS 29, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a COMPASS 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 4 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
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Which engine powers your COMPASS 29?
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