Phoenix 29: Wynne Marine’s Mid‑Sized Deep‑V That Defined an Era

Founded in the mid-1960s, Wynne Marine Inc. established itself as one of the most influential independent design houses in the marine industry. Under the direction of competitive raceboat designer and driver Jim Wynne, the firm designed fishing and performance boats as well as luxury yachts for more than 30 builders, including well-known American names such as Chris‑Craft, Hatteras, Grady‑White and Larson. Among Wynne Marine’s most notable designs was the Phoenix 29, a mid‑sized deep‑V fishing boat that earned a reputation for clean styling, seaworthiness and practicality.

Design and Performance

Introduced in 1977, the Phoenix 29 brought together practical fishing features and performance-oriented hull design. At 28 feet, 10 inches on the waterline, the hull’s deep‑V shape and carefully refined running surfaces helped the boat handle a variety of offshore conditions with confidence. The boat’s prop pockets produced a shallow draft of just over 2 feet, allowing easier access to shoal waters while still delivering the ride and tracking expected from a deep‑V hull.

Early propulsion choices included a twin setup of 124‑hp Volvo Penta diesels, providing economical cruising in the mid‑teens (15–17 knots) and a top end close to 20 knots. Later, a more powerful twin 165‑hp diesel option was added for owners seeking increased cruising speed and reserve power. These propulsion configurations reflected the balance Phoenix aimed to achieve between efficiency, range and the ability to get to productive fishing grounds quickly.

Layout and Fishing Amenities

The Phoenix 29 was engineered to serve the needs of serious anglers without sacrificing comfort for family cruising. A ladder gave access to a flybridge with a centerline helm and a bench seat large enough for three, offering an elevated vantage point for navigating and spotting fish. The cockpit was bi‑level with an open sole, which made cleaning and deck work straightforward and convenient.

Owners could outfit the cockpit with typical sportfishing gear of the era, such as rocket launchers, a livewell, raw‑water washdown and rod storage, enabling serious offshore or inshore fishing outings. The boat was available with or without an aft bulkhead to enclose the cabin space, depending on owner preference for weather protection and social layout.

Cabin Comforts

Despite its focus on fishing, the Phoenix 29 offered a compact but functional cabin. The enclosed layout featured a private head compartment, a small galley area suitable for preparing meals on board, and sleeping accommodations arranged to berth four adults. The interior design prioritized efficient use of space and practical storage, making the boat attractive to owners who wanted both a capable fishing platform and overnight capability for weekend trips.

Production History and Legacy

More than 750 Phoenix 29s were built during a production run that lasted from 1977 until 1987, a testament to the model’s appeal and durability. The success of the 29 helped Phoenix Marine expand its lineup with additional Jim Wynne designs ranging from 27 to 38 feet, creating a recognizable family of recreational fishing craft. In 1988 the Phoenix 29 was succeeded by the 29 SFX, which carried forward many of the original boat’s strengths while introducing updates expected by the market.

The broader fortunes of Phoenix Marine were affected by industry and economic shifts in the 1990s. A 10 percent luxury tax enacted in 1991 on boats priced over $100,000 proved challenging for many builders, and Phoenix Marine ultimately entered bankruptcy. The brand saw multiple revivals over the following decade, but when Jupiter Marine—its final owner—retired the Phoenix name in 2000, the company’s run came to a close. Even so, the Phoenix 29 remains well regarded among collectors and owners for its solid construction, sensible layout and the influential Wynne design heritage it represents.

About Jim Wynne

Jim Wynne, the designer behind Wynne Marine’s most celebrated projects, left a lasting mark on boat design. He died in 1990 at the age of 61 and was honored with induction into the National Marine Manufacturers Association Hall of Fame in 1989. Wynne’s designs—practical, performance‑oriented and widely adopted by production builders—helped shape recreational boating in the latter half of the 20th century.

This article was originally published in the May 2021 issue.