J/29 Masthead

Description

The J/29 Masthead Rig (1983–1987) is the cruiser-racer counterpart to the more famous fractional-rig J/29, built on the exact same hull and keel but with a shorter, non-overlapping masthead rig intended for easier short-handed sailing and slightly gentler manners. It carries ~490 sq ft upwind (smaller full-roach main + 100–105 % blade jib on a conventional single-spreader masthead spar), dropping the SA/D to a still-lively ~24–25 while keeping the same 7,500 lb displacement and 6′2″ deep fin (or 5′ shoal). The lower rig reduces mast bend and mainsail complexity, making it more forgiving in a blow and simpler to tune, yet it still planes off the wind in the mid-teens under symmetric or asymmetric kites and remains very competitive in PHRF (typically 114–126). Below decks it’s identical to the fractional version—functional V-berth, two long settees, enclosed head, small galley—perfect for a couple or young family doing weekends or the occasional distance race. Only about 110–120 masthead-rig boats were built (roughly one-third of total J/29 production), and they are now the most affordable way into a proper offshore-capable, trailerable J/Boats experience.