Dyer 29.(2ndtimearound)

Even after more than four decades in production, the Dyer 29 is in greater demand than it has ever been and is considered by many to be one of the most handsome small boats ever built. We should all be so lucky to grow old as gracefully as has this classic design built by Warren, RI, boatbuilder, The Anchorage Incorporated.

Design credit for the Dyer 29 goes to Nick Potter who undoubtedly was much influenced by traditional New England lobster boats when he drew the lines back in 1955. The actual overall length is 28' 6" and the beam is a narrow 9' 6". The bottom is v-shaped forward and progressively flattens out toward the stern. The bottom rolls into the hull sides with a radiused turn rather than a sharp corner-like edge and there is long wine glass-shaped keel integral with the hull. The keel is cut away aft for installation of the propeller and rudder and protects the running gear from damage by accidental grounding. Draft is 2' 6" and weight is upward from 6,700 lbs. depending on model and engine selection.

Various deck configurations have been offered over the years including a flush deck bass boat and several trunk cabin models with either a folding canvas or fixed top over the helm and cockpit.

The Dyer 29 is not only designed to look like a seagoing vessel, she is built to be a seagoing vessel. The hull is constructed with a minimum of seven layers of hand-laid fiberglass cloth. Nine layers are used below the waterline for added strength. The method of hull construction has changed little over the years. However, as fiberglass technology and molding techniques improved, fiberglass covered plywood and solid fiberglass decks and deckhouses of earlier model boats have given way to molded fiberglass composites utilizing a balsa wood core material.

The decks and hulls are joined at an outward turning flange with a substantial guardrail fit directly beneath the flange to prevent damage to the sheer. A full-length spray rail is fit along the hull side above the static waterline to deflect water away from the hull. On newer models, wood has been replaced with vinyl for more impact resistance and less maintenance.

Dyer's builder has always offered a long list of options and for this reason it is rare to find two Dyer 29s that are identical.

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