The standard version of the 8.5 metre long daysailer is equipped with a tiller. The boatyard now also offers the boat with two wheels positioned very far outwards, a configuration that is rather unusual for this size of boat and this type of sporty, agile compact boat. The solution on the Sunbeam 29 seems to be a success, the wheels do not obstruct the passage into the cockpit or out of it to the stern. However, the deck area to the side of the wheel is very narrow, so steering while seated will be less comfortable than the standing position. The surcharge for the double steering position is 11,781 euros.
Another, sportier version, called GT, Gran Tourismo, is currently under construction. This is equipped with a fixed keel that goes 175 centimetres deep, while the canting keel of the normal version of the Sunbeam 29.1 has a draught of 0.85 to 1.85 metres. According to the shipyard, the permanently deep keel with the lower centre of gravity results in the same righting moment with less weight, and the keel hydraulics are also superfluous. The GT version is also equipped with lighter hatches and covers as well as a cork deck covering (instead of teak substitute Resysta).
By dispensing with a water system with tank, hoses, pump and washbasin as well as an on-board electrical system, further weight is saved. The single deep rudder is lighter than the standard double rudder system. A spinnaker provides 11o square metres of additional space on the beam. Instead of the galley, a bag is integrated into the ship, into which the spinnaker can be stowed in the companionway. Instead of a berth in the foredeck, a sail load is installed and the other upholstery is reduced in thickness and design. An attached electric motor (Aquamot Travel) is offered for propulsion. An optional 50 centimetre longer bowsprit and a carbon mast can also be ordered.
Sunbeam 29.1: Wide range between comfortable and sporty
These measures are intended to save almost 500 kilograms in weight, which means a reduction of around 23 percent with a total weight of the standard version of 2.3 tonnes. The Sunbeam 29.1 GT costs 136,731 euros. With the two versions, the shipyard wants to further straddle the concept of the Sunbeam 29.1 between the poles of comfortable and sporty.
