HUGHES 29
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 29.33 ft |
| LWL | 23 ft |
| Beam | 8.17 ft |
| Draft | 4.5 ft |
| Displacement | 6,500 lb |
| Ballast | 2,999.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.4 kn |
Rig & Sails
| Iforetriangle height | 33.3 ft |
| Jforetriangle base | 11 ft |
| Pmainsail luff | 30.2 ft |
| Emainsail foot | 11 ft |
| FLforestay | 11 ft |
| Mainsail | 362.5 sq ft |
| Jib (100%) | 183.2 sq ft |
| Spinnaker | 311.4 sq ft |
About the HUGHES 29
Not to be confused with the HUGHES-COLUMBIA 8.7. Thanks to HUGHES 29 owner Dick de Lange for providing the drawings and updated information. It is thought that nearly 200 of these yachts were built. Dates have been hard to confirm. Photo courtesy of Adam Hunt.
Designed by Howard Hughes and built by Hughes Boat Works Ltd. (CAN), the Hughes 29 is a compact cruising sloop with a production run of 190 hulls constructed in 1975. This single-year production model offers a distinct blend of coastal cruising comfort and manageable size, characterized by its 29.33 ft LOA and 6500.0 lb displacement.
- Best for:
- This boat is best suited for coastal cruisers and couples seeking a manageable, trailerable vessel that balances performance with comfort, as indicated by its 24.58 comfort ratio. It is less ideal for heavy bluewater expeditions due to its age and specific structural vulnerabilities, making it a strong candidate for weekend warriors and short-range offshore passages.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a 1.75 capsize ratio and 238.5 D/L ratio, the Hughes 29 is designed for coastal and nearshore cruising rather than extreme offshore endurance. Its 6500.0 lb displacement and 2999.8 lb ballast provide adequate stability for protected waters, but potential structural issues with the keel attachment limit its suitability for heavy bluewater use.
- Comparables:
- Comparable boats from this era include the Cal 2-36 and O'Day 28, which share similar displacement ranges and coastal cruising roles. These vessels offer similar masthead sloop configurations and fin keel designs, providing a benchmark for performance and interior volume in the late 1970s market.
Performance
Pricing
We don't have market pricing data for the HUGHES 29 yet. If you own one, help other buyers — what did you pay for it? Reports build a community price estimate over time.
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 29.33ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
6 reported issues across 4 systems for the HUGHES 29, compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a HUGHES 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 6 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 HUGHES 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, Atomic 4 — is it one of these?
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Used sails that fit the HUGHES 29
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…