MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY)
Specifications
Hull
| LOA | 29 ft |
| LWL | 23.58 ft |
| Beam | 9.92 ft |
| Draft | 5 ft |
| Displacement | 7,694 lb |
| Ballast | 2,986.8 lb |
| Hull speed1.34·√LWL | 6.5 kn |
About the MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY)
Derived from the MERLIN 27 with an extended transom, fin and spade rudder. Also available with twin/bilge keels. Draft = 3.33'/1.01m.
Designed by Ed Dubois and built by Westerly Marine Ltd. (UK) between 1990 and 1993, the Merlin 29 is a rare fractional sloop with only 21 hulls produced. Its heavy displacement of 7694.0 lb and high comfort ratio of 22.2 reflect a design prioritizing stability and seakeeping over raw speed.
- Best for:
- This boat suits coastal cruisers and those seeking a stable, heavy-displacement cruiser that handles well in choppy conditions, particularly those comfortable with a fractional sloop rig.
- Bluewater capability:
- With a low capsize ratio of 2.01 and a displacement of 7694.0 lb, the Merlin 29 is well-suited for offshore passages, offering excellent stability and resistance to capsizing in heavy weather.
- Comparables:
- Comparable to other heavy-displacement fractional sloops from the late 1980s and early 1990s, such as the Hallberg-Rassy 35 or similar Westerly models, due to its emphasis on safety and comfort over planing performance.
Performance
Market Price
Estimated Cost of Ownership
Based on 29ft LOA. Actual costs vary by condition, usage, and local rates.
Known Issues & Pre-Purchase Inspection
4 reported issues across 4 systems for the MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY), compiled from owner reports in sailing forums and owner-association material.
Unlock the full inspection report
Thinking of buying a MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY)? 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
Similar Sailboats
Which engine powers your MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY)?
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: Beta Marine — is it one of these?
Already know your engine? Search all engines → to find its exact parts.
Used sails that fit the MERLIN 29 (WESTERLY)
Checking eBay for sails sized to this boat's rig…