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Andrews 28: Best Club Racer
- By Tony Bessinger
- Updated: December 19, 2008
The Andrew 28 is a boat you can (and will want to) do all sorts of things with.
At first glance, the Andrews 28 looks like a MORC racer from days gone by, with a high, initially unappealing cabin top. But with that high cabin top, high freeboard, and plumb bow, the boat has an incredible amount of interior volume. In an era where everything else is low-slung, racy and angular, this one somehow manages to carry all that interior volume and still sail gracefully through the water, upwind and downwind. While it’s certainly capable of doing a lot more than banging around the cans, this little Alan Andrews rocket is exactly what you want for weeknight club racing.
The boat is a result of the boat builder, Ivan Ivandic’s love for the Laser 28. With a desire for a higher-tech and drier boat, Ivandic took it upon himself to build his own. Originally from the Czech Republic, Ivandic once owned a powerboat-building company in his native country, but when it came time to build his dream boat, he moved to Vancouver, Canada, with his brother, Vladimer, contacted designer Alan Andrews, built a factory, and started working on the 28 under the name of Sylvana Yachts.
“The Andrews 28 is a well-executed project that benefited from its three-year development cycle,” said Stewart. “It’s from a hands-on builder that had a clear vision of the yacht he wanted, a modern Laser 28.”
The deck layout reflects both the designer and the builder’s years of racing experience. The tiller is well aft, but the boat’s wide beam allows the helmsman an unobstructed view of the headsail, which is flown from a continuous-line roller-furling unit. The cockpit was comfortable. The finish is outstanding, and the boat sails incredibly well, with a light feel to the helm. Unlike many boats, its slippery hull makes nary a noise as it passes through the water. This is a result of Andrew’s keen attention to the design of a boat’s underbody and foils.
Stewart was impressed with the build quality, which was apparent in every corner of the boat. “All the bolts and attachments were trimmed very nicely, not like someone took vise grips and wagged [the bolt] back and forth until it broke off,” he said. “They’re all ground down flush. The quality of all the hardware was great and the lifting keel works well. It was amazing how much stuff they had on that boat. You go down below and it had the big cabin. Back aft the freeboard is high which increases volume and helps the seat backs and cockpit coamings not stick out. That all worked well, and they’re very serious about this boat. They have 45 molds and jigs to build the boat, that’s a huge commitment.”
Holby, a dedicated single- and doublehanded sailor sees the Andrews 28 as more than just a buoy racer. “I can see doing short distance racing, like the Edlu, Stratford Shoals, shorter point-to-point, even the Solo Twin,” he said. “It sails very well, and would be a fun, comfortable boat to distance race with. It’s versatile, there are a lot of things you can do with that boat and the price is right. The A-sail fit perfectly; just a great, big chute.”
Both the hull and deck are built on female molds, and vacuum-infused. It’s a vinylester resin and E-glass sandwich with PVC closed-cell foam. Local reinforcing with additional glass and high-density foam is used where deck hardware is installed, and a high-quality white gel coat in combination with vinylester resin provides resistance to blistering.
The Andrews 28 has a deck-stepped, carbon-fiber, swept-spreader rig that’s set up for either masthead or fractional spinnakers. The 7-foot keel, which can be raised for easy launching, is a stainless steel strut with an E-glass shell and epoxy filler, with a lead bulb attached to a bottom plate.
The kelp cutter is optional. The keel fin is securely held in the keel trunk-which is an integral part of the hull reinforcement-with urethane plastic guide blocks and a positive locking mechanism.
Pros: A slippery hull shape with a perfect interior for weekend excursions and overnight races.
Cons: The builder should’ve listened to the designer and added a window that would lessen the visual impact of the high deckhouse.
Designer’s mission accomplished? Without a doubt. Alan Andrews was asked to design a boat that balanced, without compromise, a lightweight, performance raceboat with a comfortable interior.
Andrews 28 Specs LOA: 28′ Beam: 9’10” Draft: 7′ DSPL: 3,750 SA (u/d): 494/1,220 sq. ft. Designer: Alan Andrews Price: $97,000 www.sylvanayachts.com.com
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Five Rides that Push the Limits of High-performance Sailing
Practical sailor looks at a wide range of sailing craft that emphasize light-air sailing ability and maximum speed.
When yacht designer Bill Lee latched on to the phrase “Fast is Fun,” he did more than label his own design efforts, he sparked a new generation of sailboats that continue to attract ardent followers. Much has changed since those early days when Lees Santa Cruz 27s were being built by land-bound surfers waiting for big winter swells.
Lees plant, affectionately known as the “Chicken Coop,” has been upstaged by climate-controlled facilities and much more esoteric building techniques, but the impact of his designs-particularly on the traditional East Coast naval architecture establishment-reverberates today. The high-performance experiments of Lee and other like-minded sailors spawned a worldwide obsession with lightweight boats that could plane on a reach, and thanks to innovations in designs and materials, that passion continues to grow today.
Photos by Ralph Naranjo
This fledgling group of speed enthusiasts prompted the evolution of a number of design elements and construction techniques aimed squarely at maximizing speed: planing hull forms, carbon rigs, specialized hardware, and sail plans that favor lift over drag. Add to this the innovations from C-Class catamarans, planing Aussie skiffs, and the offbeat foil flyers, each adding its own signature performance push, and its no surprise that sailing speed records have continued to tumble.
The legacy left in the wake of these seafaring hot-rodders has benefited the average sailor with new materials, hardware, and design improvements found in modern boats. And now, theres a growing interest in the fleet of what Lee calls “street legal” boats that further push the envelope of the fast-is-fun philosophy. These boats are usually found in the less- trafficked corners of the boat shows, in essence a sideshow thats well worth a closer look.
After sifting through the field of sailing sports cars on the market today, PS identified five very different production craft that lived up to our expectations. They all meet the “speedster” criteria, but by no means fall into the same mold. At the top end of our size and cost profile is a Lee legacy, the Santa Cruz 37, a wolf in wolfs clothing that offers performance as priority one, two, and three on the design criteria list. Next in line is the Andrews 28, a breakaway racer/cruiser that packs performance and a Spartan minimalists cruising package into a 25.7-foot waterline. Hard to miss is the Open 6.50, an out-and-out go-fast sport boat with room below for little more than a cooler and a bevy of high-tech sails. For the diehard dinghy sailor, we highlight the quick planing Stealth, a 14.5-footer that redefines reaching, and in true giant-slayer fashion, can fly by most 40-footers on a power reach. Finally, we hop aboard a turbo-charged windsurfer, the Starboard Futura, which is powered by a Neil Pryde sail and runs away with the award for most speed and fun for our dollar.
While some of these boats are designed with racing in mind, we rate them here purely according to their fun-factor, the ability to deliver the exhilaration that comes from sailing a high-performance boat. We are particularly interested in boats that can offer satisfying sailing in lighter winds of about 8 knots, common in most areas of North America. If exciting racing on a weekly basis is your goal, then we would recommend also looking at more mainstream boats that are supported by large Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) or one-design fleets in your region.
Santa Cruz 37
Lee may no longer be building boats, but his Santa Cruz legend lives on. The latest iteration of the fast-is-fun form belongs to a lightweight carbon-fiber/ epoxy-resin speedster designed by Kernan Yacht Design and built to International Standards Organization (ISO) Category A standards (designated for boats generally considered capable of offshore sailing). The hull and deck are bonded together, and carbon/PVC foam bulkheads and a carbon-reinforced E-glass grid are set in place using a methacrylate adhesive, creating a stiff, monocoque structure. Theres even a hydraulic lifting option that allows the fin and bulb keel to be retracted vertically for entry into shoal water.
The specs are interesting, and they highlight that this is a boat that must be sailed to be appreciated. Like a cat that is ready to pounce, the large mainsail-dominated sailplan delivers a responsive boost to every puff that crosses the deck. The SC-37 sailplan is indicative of the performance trend toward large mainsails and smaller jibs, and with a sail area/displacement ratio of 28, theres plenty of power to be found in the sailplan. Off the wind, the options increase.
A quick look at the pointy end of the boat reveals a double-barrel set of stem projections. The smaller, well-reinforced A-frame is meant for code-sail handling and is rugged enough to take the on-the-wind loading of a close reach in oceanic conditions. The 7-foot retractable carbon sprit puts the tack of an asymmetric spinnaker right where it belongs, in clear air well away from the furled headsail.
Below is a nicely accented interior thats more than a den for sailbags. The galley, berths, and a small center-line table offer functional accommodations. The cabin ambiance may not live up to a liveaboard cruisers expectations, but it certainly offers welcome solace for the off watch.
With one set of jib winches in the cockpit and a set on the cabintop for spinnaker handling, the helmsperson is not crowded, and theres space for every function. The main halyard is led below and clutched off on the spar itself, minimizing stretch and keeping the halyard tail well out of the way. Having to go below to blow the main halyard is not the best arrangement from a safety and convenience standpoint, but on a boat likely to have multiple crew members, it is not as much of an issue as it would be on a boat aimed at singlehanders or cruising couples. The only other problem we noticed was some rudder cassette binding when hard on the wind. By presstime, the builder had already changed the bearing engineering to eliminate this problem.
Bottom line: Despite its teething pains (rudder problems at this level of the game are not acceptable), the SC-37 truly ramps up the fun factor in this size category. If youre looking strictly for an IRC racer, there are better options out there, and in the more mainstream PHRF or one-design fleets racing, there are some Beneteaus and J/boats in this size range that may better meet your needs. However, if you want to flat out fly on a boat with modest cruising comforts, the SC-37 delivers in spades.
This 21-foot sport boat has been described as “100-percent carbon and 200-percent adrenalin,” and the combination delivers hoots and smiles from all on board. With a 43-percent ballast ratio, wide beam, and a sail area to displacement ratio that redefines the concept of being powered up, this high-strung sportboat gets going while others remain stuck in the water.
Carrying the fast-is-fun philosophy to the next level, Group Finot pushes the limits of what should be labeled “street legal.” In this miniaturized iteration of the go-fast ideal, they have merged an ultra-lightweight (1,168 pounds), carbon and foam-sandwich hull with a carbon sprit and spar. This delivers the ability to carry 425 square feet of sail upwind, and 812 square feet off the wind. Reminiscent of scaled-down 60-footers, this ultralight with a wide beam aft shows zip on and off the wind.
The Open 6.50 is an engineering masterpiece, and a clear example of how aerospace technology can be put to good use in boat building. The hull laminate and foam core are assembled dry in a closed mold and slipped into an autoclave to be baked under elevated pressure and temperature-curing like a high-tech loaf of bread. The carbon-fiber prepreg resin flows when heated, and the exacting nature of the pressure induced bond leads to laminate consistency and the highest of strength-to-weight ratios. Foam flotation and a sealed carbon mast provide the boat with an unsinkable ISO Category-C label and added resistance to capsizing.
Thanks to a drop-keel design, the Open 6.50 can change its draft from 6 feet, 6 inches to 1 foot for easy trailer launching and recovery. Twin rudders tame steering characteristics despite the ultra-wide beam carried all the way to the transom. All of the controls are placed at just the right points for easy trimming, and the flat-top, high-aspect-ratio main and jib deliver maximum punch. The 7-foot retractable carbon sprit adds a downwind dimension to sailing that can only be described as turbocharged.
Optimum crew size varies with conditions and how hard the throttle will be kept down. Two can have plenty of fun sailing the boat, but to squeeze out maximum performance, three to five seems to be the right number, and the range depends upon a tally of size and skill.
The Open 6.50 is an all-Harken hardware platform, and both the deck layout and choice of gear fit the job at hand. The boats light-air ability is astounding, and in only 10 knots of breeze, the crew can coax bouts of planing. Hiking is optional, and remains a legs-in effort, but when the true wind and boat speed start to look the same, its amazing how far forward the apparent wind moves, another reason that a sprit-set, reaching asymmetric spinnaker is favored over a fuller-cut, deep reaching sail.
Bottom line: The Open 6.50 revs up the fine art of daysailing, but the big downside is the price tag, about the same as a well-appointed BMW. With it comes no bunks, diesel auxiliary, or potential for overnighting-just the pure enjoyment of having one of the fastest and most fun sailing machines to be found on any local bay, lake, or other inshore estuary.
Alan Andrews has introduced a new breed of racer-cruiser, and theres good reason to see it as a break-through boat. Gone is the gingerbread trim of tradition and the excess weight that creates increased wetted surface, skin drag, and all the other drag issues that give many cruisers a chronic case of the slows. In its place is a minimalist approach-simple but functional basic cruising amenities, a compact diesel auxiliary and an obvious emphasis on the rig, sailplan, and deck layout-the stuff that sailing is really all about.
The foam sandwich hull is created through a resin-infusion process that minimizes void content and maximizes core adhesion. Carbon fiber is used in key high-load areas to achieve the necessary strength with the least amount of additional weight. A grid is molded into the bilge and loads from the deck-stepped spar are transferred via a compression post to the grid.
An innovative lifting keel retracts into a centerline slot, masquerading in the cabin as a convenient table. With just a quick hoist, the 7-foot deep-draft foil and bulb keel morphs into a 2-foot, 8-inch gunkholer thats trailerable, a feature that opens up North Americas most appealing cruising destinations.
A high-aspect ratio, carbon fiber, tiller-steered rudder can be easily pulled out of its transom-mounted cassette. The combination keel and rudder adjustability make the Andrews 28 much more than just another reincarnation of a Midget Offshore Racing Club (MORC) boat.
When it comes to weekend adventure or a weekslong summer cruise in a remote trailer-sailing destination, theres much going for the A-28. Its accommodations, though far from sumptuous, are adequate for the job at hand. With a sink, one-burner stove, ice box, and enough space to prepare a simple meal, the mini galley rates an adequate score. The berths are comfortable, and theres a small but welcome nav station. Tankage is minimal, but with an enclosed head, albeit with a shade-like faux door, the boat qualifies as a pocket cruiser.
The real appeal of this boat is found underway, when its thoroughbred handling characteristics and efficient sailplan come into their own. The carbon sprit allows a sizable asymmetric spinnaker to be handled by a shorthanded crew, and the sail area is enough to keep things moving even when the breeze isn’t much over 5 knots. The tiller-steered helm is a delight, and Andrews legacy rings through loud and clear.
Bottom line: Sylvana Yachts has delivered a boat built to a performance standard. They have kept the weight in check, and the result is reminiscent of when Porsche built its original speedster, a vehicle that rekindled the fun of driving. Like the German auto icon, Andrews and Sylvan have come up with a sensible price point for their redefined pocket racer/cruiser. At just shy of $90,000, the boat is in the same price point as Hunters, Catalinas, and Beneteaus with similar waterline lengths.
Stealth 14.6
Some sailors see dinghies as childs play while others revel in a chance to hold onto a bit of youth. In truth, the Stealth is more Aussie skiff than traditional 420 or Flying Junior. From above, its shaped like a pizza slice, and the hard chines, high-aspect ratio alloy blades and substantial carbon sprit allude to an elevated level of performance. Conceived by the crew at Kernan Yacht Design and built by CL Sailboats of Fort Erie, Ontario, the Stealth injects rocket fuel into the sport of dinghy sailing.
Perhaps the biggest surprise in this little speedster is the sensible blend of materials that have been used to deliver performance at an affordable price. The hull and deck are comprised of a hand-laid E-glass sandwich structure that is joined with a methylacrylate adhesive called Plexus. The combination of good workmanship and mainstream materials delivers a stiff, durable hull that weighs in at 150 pounds, making it capable of car-top transport. By avoiding esoteric materials and costly molding procedures, the builder is able to add carbon spars and North Sails canvas to the package and still keep the boat price just shy of $10,000.
One of the most interesting attributes of this little skiff is the asymmetric spinnaker that can be set and doused with one set of lines. In 15-knot conditions, a singlehander simply bears off a tad, puts the breeze on the beam, and pops the chute, adding a warp-speed boost. Instead of launching into chaos, the chine digs in, and the boat climbs on top of the water. Sailing takes on a definite surfing overtone, and the positive control of the helm keeps things under control. When its time to reign in the excitement, theres no need for any white knuckle gymnastics, just uncleat the double-ended set-and-douse line, and retract the asymm into its turtle. Caging the beast has never been so easy.
Bottom line: Kids growing bored with nudging a conventional dinghy through the water will gain a new perspective about sailing the moment they set off on a double-digit plane, and the Stealth brings that goal within easy reach. If a bargain-priced, plane-on-a-reach performance will make your day, the Stealth is bound to hold appeal.
- Starboard Futura
The irony in this David-and-Goliath quest for speed under sail is that the smallest, lightest, and less expensive gear often goes the fastest. And nowhere is the sail area/displacement ratio as telling as it is with the last of our speedsters, a Starboard windsurfer and a Neil Pryde sail.
This stand-up sailer has no cockpit, rudder, standing rigging, or hint of creature comfort beyond padded footstraps. But it can leave all of the other boats reviewed here in the dust. The downside of going 25 knots-plus on a windsurfer is the need to spend a couple of seasons developing the skill to access this planing phenomenon. Todays wide, light boards and high-aspect sails make this learning curve much easier than it was during the dawn of the sport when narrow, longboards weighing as much as an elm tree were propelled with tablecloth-like sails.
Test pilot Tara Mitchell (photo above) tried out a 111-liter-volume board powered with a 53-square-foot Neil Pryde sail, one of many designs the company has pioneered. The “Combat” sails are highly reinforced and often used in heavier winds. Carbon masts and booms also fit the strong-and-light theme, and when it comes to shaping up the innovations of sailmakers like Neil Pryde, stiff carbon spars are a big plus. Interestingly, innovative full-batten design sails with fat-head high-aspect ratio shapes were seen on windsurfing sails well before Americas Cup syndicates caught on to their advantage.
Bottom line: Companies like Starboard manufacture a wide range of boards that are light, stable, and fast. The new Futura model is a responsive, highly maneuverable board thats easy to plane and perfectly at home in a wide range of conditions.
Fast, light boats are fun to sail, but there are a few tradeoffs that boat buyers should keep in mind. The first is that all the performance is contingent upon keeping the boats as light as possible, and if youre a person that brings gear to the boat but never takes anything home, beware of whats happening to the waterline. Just as multihulls bog down when overloaded, so do these nimble go-fast monohulls.
Theres also a need to visualize these boats as sports cars, not pickup trucks, and while letting an old Westsail pound against a pier will usually result in more damage being done to the pier than the boat, these new hulls with their stiff, thin skin, sandwich structure arent built to take such non-sailing point loads.
Although Technical Editor Ralph Naranjo, an avid windsurfer, favors the stand-up side of performance sailing and points to the knots-per-dollar advantage the windsurfer offers, he agrees that among our test field, the Andrews 28 is the best all-around performance cruiser/racer for our general readership. Its a boat that can be club-raced by a shorthanded crew and can serve as an excellent pocket cruiser for those who rank voyaging under sail higher than dockside entertaining. This little sloop has been designed to be easily maintained and quick to get underway-features that definitely deliver more hours under sail.
- Santa Cruz 37 in Context
- Open 6.50 in Context
- Andrews 28 in Context
- Stealth 14.6 in Context
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ANDREWS 28 Detailed Review
If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of ANDREWS 28. Built by Sylvana Yachts Inc. and designed by Alan Andrews, the boat was first built in 2007. It has a hull type of Lifting Keel and LOA is 8.53. Its sail area/displacement ratio 27.38. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by Yanmar, runs on Diesel.
ANDREWS 28 has retained its value as a result of superior building, a solid reputation, and a devoted owner base. Read on to find out more about ANDREWS 28 and decide if it is a fit for your boating needs.
Boat Information
Boat specifications, sail boat calculation, rig and sail specs, auxillary power tank, contributions, who designed the andrews 28.
ANDREWS 28 was designed by Alan Andrews.
Who builds ANDREWS 28?
ANDREWS 28 is built by Sylvana Yachts Inc..
When was ANDREWS 28 first built?
ANDREWS 28 was first built in 2007.
How long is ANDREWS 28?
ANDREWS 28 is 7.85 m in length.
What is mast height on ANDREWS 28?
ANDREWS 28 has a mast height of 10.97 m.
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Review of Andrews 28
Basic specs..
The hull is made of fibreglass. Generally, a hull made of fibreglass requires only a minimum of maintenance during the sailing season. And outside the sailing season, just bottom cleaning and perhaps anti-fouling painting once a year - a few hours of work, that's all.
The boat equipped with a fractional rig. A fractional rig has smaller headsails which make tacking easier, which is an advantage for cruisers and racers, of course. The downside is that having the wind from behind often requires a genaker or a spinnaker for optimal speed.
DaggerBoard
The Andrews 28 is equipped with a daggerboard keel. A daggerboard is a lifting keel that can be lowered and raised, allowing the boat to enter shallow waters as well.
The keel is made of lead. Compared with iron, lead has the advantage of being 44% heavier, which allows a smaller keel and hence less water resistance and higher speed.
The boat can enter even shallow marinas as the draft is just about 0.73 - 0.83 meter (2.40 - 2.70 ft) dependent on the load. See immersion rate below.
The boat is typically equipped with an inboard Yanmar 1GM10 diesel engine
Sailing characteristics
This section covers widely used rules of thumb to describe the sailing characteristics. Please note that even though the calculations are correct, the interpretation of the results might not be valid for extreme boats.
What is Capsize Screening Formula (CSF)?
The capsize screening value for Andrews 28 is 2.80, indicating that this boat would not be accepted to participate in ocean races.
What is Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed?
The theoretical maximal speed of a displacement boat of this length is 6.8 knots. The term "Theoretical Maximum Hull Speed" is widely used even though a boat can sail faster. The term shall be interpreted as above the theoretical speed a great additional power is necessary for a small gain in speed.
The immersion rate is defined as the weight required to sink the boat a certain level. The immersion rate for Andrews 28 is about 157 kg/cm, alternatively 880 lbs/inch. Meaning: if you load 157 kg cargo on the boat then it will sink 1 cm. Alternatively, if you load 880 lbs cargo on the boat it will sink 1 inch.
Sailing statistics
This section is statistical comparison with similar boats of the same category. The basis of the following statistical computations is our unique database with more than 26,000 different boat types and 350,000 data points.
What is Motion Comfort Ratio (MCR)?
What is L/B (Length Beam Ratio)?
What is a Ballast Ratio?
What is Displacement Length Ratio?
What is SA/D (Sail Area Displacement ratio)?
Maintenance
When buying anti-fouling bottom paint, it's nice to know how much to buy. The surface of the wet bottom is about 30m 2 (322 ft 2 ). Based on this, your favourite maritime shop can tell you the quantity you need.
Are your sails worn out? You might find your next sail here: Sails for Sale
If you need to renew parts of your running rig and is not quite sure of the dimensions, you may find the estimates computed below useful.
| Usage | Length | Diameter | ||
| Mainsail halyard | 28.7 m | (94.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib/genoa halyard | 28.7 m | (94.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Spinnaker halyard | 28.7 m | (94.2 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Jib sheet | 8.5 m | (28.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Genoa sheet | 8.5 m | (28.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Mainsheet | 21.3 m | (70.0 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Spinnaker sheet | 18.8 m | (61.6 feet) | 10 mm | (3/8 inch) |
| Cunningham | 4.0 m | (13.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Kickingstrap | 7.9 m | (26.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
| Clew-outhaul | 7.9 m | (26.0 feet) | 8 mm | (5/16 inch) |
This section is reserved boat owner's modifications, improvements, etc. Here you might find (or contribute with) inspiration for your boat.
Do you have changes/improvements you would like to share? Upload a photo and describe what you have done.
We are always looking for new photos. If you can contribute with photos for Andrews 28 it would be a great help.
If you have any comments to the review, improvement suggestions, or the like, feel free to contact us . Criticism helps us to improve.
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| The Andrews 28 was designed for Sylvana Yachts to fit the need for a high performance trailerable racer/cruiser. In addition to great performance this boat has a comfortable cockpit with seating for six or more. Below decks there are double berths forward and aft, a mid-cabin table, full galley, navigation station and enclosed head. Sail handling is simple with fractional jib and large mainsail set on a carbon mast with aft swept spreaders. Even the spinnaker is simple, setting on the retractable sprit. The keel and rudder retract for shallow water berthing and trailering and which is aided by the deck stepped mast. Sylvana Yachts builds to high quality with vacuum infused laminates in female molds and equips the boat with carbon mast, sprit and rudder.This Andrews 28 lets you lead around the race course one weekend and take the family for a weekend cruise the next. Contact for price and delivery information. | ||
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- Sailboat Guide
Andrews 28 is a 27 ′ 11 ″ / 8.5 m monohull sailboat designed by Alan Andrews and built by Sylvana Yachts Inc. between 2007 and 2010.
Rig and Sails
Auxilary power, accomodations, calculations.
The theoretical maximum speed that a displacement hull can move efficiently through the water is determined by it's waterline length and displacement. It may be unable to reach this speed if the boat is underpowered or heavily loaded, though it may exceed this speed given enough power. Read more.
Classic hull speed formula:
Hull Speed = 1.34 x √LWL
Max Speed/Length ratio = 8.26 ÷ Displacement/Length ratio .311 Hull Speed = Max Speed/Length ratio x √LWL
Sail Area / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the power of the sails relative to the weight of the boat. The higher the number, the higher the performance, but the harder the boat will be to handle. This ratio is a "non-dimensional" value that facilitates comparisons between boats of different types and sizes. Read more.
SA/D = SA ÷ (D ÷ 64) 2/3
- SA : Sail area in square feet, derived by adding the mainsail area to 100% of the foretriangle area (the lateral area above the deck between the mast and the forestay).
- D : Displacement in pounds.
Ballast / Displacement Ratio
A measure of the stability of a boat's hull that suggests how well a monohull will stand up to its sails. The ballast displacement ratio indicates how much of the weight of a boat is placed for maximum stability against capsizing and is an indicator of stiffness and resistance to capsize.
Ballast / Displacement * 100
Displacement / Length Ratio
A measure of the weight of the boat relative to it's length at the waterline. The higher a boat’s D/L ratio, the more easily it will carry a load and the more comfortable its motion will be. The lower a boat's ratio is, the less power it takes to drive the boat to its nominal hull speed or beyond. Read more.
D/L = (D ÷ 2240) ÷ (0.01 x LWL)³
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds.
- LWL: Waterline length in feet
Comfort Ratio
This ratio assess how quickly and abruptly a boat’s hull reacts to waves in a significant seaway, these being the elements of a boat’s motion most likely to cause seasickness. Read more.
Comfort ratio = D ÷ (.65 x (.7 LWL + .3 LOA) x Beam 1.33 )
- D: Displacement of the boat in pounds
- LOA: Length overall in feet
- Beam: Width of boat at the widest point in feet
Capsize Screening Formula
This formula attempts to indicate whether a given boat might be too wide and light to readily right itself after being overturned in extreme conditions. Read more.
CSV = Beam ÷ ³√(D / 64)
Thanks to Gary S. for providing correction.
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Best Bluewater Pocket Sailboats
Last Updated by
Jacob Collier
December 28, 2023
Looking for a pocket sailboat that can also give you the experience of liveaboard sailing? The best bluewater pocket sailboat is what you need.
Bluewater Pocket sailboats are affordable small yachts that are trailerable to your choice of destination but have the amenities of a full-size sailboat, all without breaking your bank. Unlike other small boats, they are capable of offshore voyages.
The best bluewater pocket sailboats include the Andrews 28, Ranger 26, Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24, Pearson 35, and the Catalina 275 Sport. There are several others you can find on the market. But these are the top bluewater pocket sailboats.
Many sailing enthusiasts prefer pocket sailboats instead of larger ones. One of the reasons for this is that you can enjoy the experience of sailing offshore while not breaking the bank and spending less on maintenance as well. Pocket sailboats are generally heavy to maintain stability in rough waters but roomy enough that you can spend a few days along with your friends and family.
We are a bunch of sailing enthusiasts spending most of our weekends trailing our pocket sailboats traveling to various offshore destinations. With this knowledge and experience, we have drafted a list of the best bluewater pocket sailboats and discussed them in detail, so you can make an informed decision before buying your pocket sailboat.
Table of contents
Our Top Picks
{{boat-info="/boats/andrews-28"}}
If you want a complete package of a sailboat, you should look no further than the Andrews 28. It is the one-stop solution for a comfortable, fast, roomy, easy to sail, and easy to trail pocket sailboat.
This sailboat is designed by renowned designer Alan Andrews, famous for designing speedy sailboats without compromising comfort and reliability.
Despite being only 28 feet long, the below-deck space is open and airy and has six berths. A galley, head, and navigation area with super spacious built will make you feel like on a full-sized sailboat.
The hull and deck construction is a robust yet luxurious one with fiberglass, closed-cell PVC core, and high-density foam. These materials ensure there is no chance of water absorption, and your ride remains reliable. The keel is made from stainless steel and fiberglass shell to keep it from rusting for a long period.
Moreover, the keel is retractable, so it is quite easy to haul the sailboat for trailering. Thanks to the carbon pole, Andrews 28 gives a breezy and light air performance that makes the boat's handling easy.
Maneuvering Andrews 28 is enjoyable and requires less work when faced with eight knots of winds.
The best thing about Andrews 28 is that it is one of the newer generations of sailboats, so the accommodations are more comfortable than most older ones.
A 5' 10" headroom in the cabin, leather-padded seats, stove, a counter and sink in the galley, and more features ensure a comfortable sailing experience.
You can get the Andrews 28 from Sylvana Yachts .
Specifications
- Hull Type: Lifting keel
- LOA: 28 ft.
- LWL: 25.75 ft.
- Beam: 9.82 ft.
- Displacement: 3,750 lbs.
- Ballast: 1,290 lbs.
- Sail Area: 412.31 sq. ft.
- Fuel: 18 gallons
- Fresh Water 20 gallons
- Engine: Yanmar
- First built: 2007
- Last built: 2010
- Developer: Sylvana Yachts (CAN)
- Designer: Alan Andrews
{{boat-info="/boats/ranger-26"}}
Regarded well for safety and comfortable sailing experience, Ranger 26 is the perfect design satisfying the expectations from the short-lived yet highly prosperous designer, Gary Mull. Ranger 26 is a sporty boat that won the 1970 IOR North American Half-Ton Cup .
Overall, Ranger 26 has a fine profile with all the aspects you can expect from a pocket sailboat and then some.
Ranger 26's comfort level is unmatched. Although designed in 1969, it depicts the modern design of sailboats. A hand-laid hull and a balsa-cored deck add a touch of luxury to the boat. However, good looks and speed are not the only attributes this sailboat offers.
A seven-foot long deck offers ample space for a couple of companions. A sufficient cabin height and freeboard give a good under-deck experience.
Storage space is another benefit of the 26-footer sailboat. The lack of quarter births provides extra storage space under the cabin seats. However, the well-balanced construction between the above and under the deck has left little standing headroom of about five feet.
Going forward, the side decks narrow to only 12-inch wide, so it's important to keep wary of your footing. If you go for this fast and comfortable boat, ensure to check the iron keel and its bolts, which are prone to rust.
You can buy the Ranger 26 from Ranger26.com .
- Hull Type: Fin w/spade rudder
- LOA: 26.25 ft.
- LWL: 21.75 ft.
- Beam: 8.67 ft.
- Displacement: 5.860 lbs.
- Ballast: 2,050 lbs.
- Sail Area: 321.75 sq. ft.
- First built: 1969
- Last built: 1975
- Developer: Ranger Yachts
- Designer: Gary Mull
Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20
{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-flicka-20"}}
Pacific Seacraft Flicka is the most convenient and trailerable sailboat on our list, with an overall length of 20 feet. If you like a minimalist lifestyle and want the same in your bluewater pocket sailboat, this one's for you.
A functional galley with a sink and a counter and a small sink, toilet, and shower provides you with the basic amenities you and a couple of your friends and family need for a few days offshore.
There's more to the accommodation you can expect from this 20-footer sailboat. This boat has four berths, including a v-berth so sleeping comfortably or stretching your legs occasionally is not an issue. A pop-up dining table and a chart table within the cabin make eating and other activities doable.
Nevertheless, most people underestimate the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20's ability to handle offshore rigidity, and they are often surprised at what this boat has to offer. A full-ballast keel, hull shape, manageable rig, and a self-draining cockpit ensure a fine offshore performance by the littlest contender.
Moreover, we find its outstanding standing headspace as one of the boat's best features. Unlike other pocket sailboats, the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 has a six ft. headspace. You don't have to duck every time to save your head banging against the roof.
The Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20's size and its minimalistic yet fulfilling features are why this boat's demand remains high. With only 400 of them ever made, you will have to dig deeper and longer to find one worth buying. Due to this, the price of this boat is also slightly higher.
You can buy the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20 from Yacht world for $29,900.
- Hull Type: Long keel
- LOA: 24 ft.
- LWL: 18.75 ft.
- Beam: 8 ft.
- Displacement: 6,000 lbs.
- Ballast: 1,750 lbs.
- Sail Area: 261.89 sq. ft.
- Fuel: 12 gallons
- Fresh Water: 20 gallons
- First built: 1974
- Last built: 1994
- Developer: Pacific Seacraft
- Designer: Bruce Bingham
Pacific Seacraft Dana 24
{{boat-info="/boats/pacific-seacraft-dana-24"}}
Despite the minimalistic functionality, you might want a sailboat a notch larger than the Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. If so, check out the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24. You can expect a similar design and capabilities from the same developers, with an additional four feet of space.
While such a small amount of extra space might feel very little, even an extra foot is a lot for a sailboat.
The extra four feet space allows more room on the cockpit, including an additional settee on the deck. It also adds to the galley space, making it more comfortable and easy to utilize. While the 24-footer adds space to the boat to make it roomy, it still boasts the qualities of one of the smaller sailboats we have on this list.
It is ideal for a pair, especially couples who do not look for much except spending quality days offshore with the basic amenities on hand.
Technically, the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 leaves behind its close nemesis Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20. Despite being the larger one, Dana 24 is faster, catches up its hull speed quickly, and gives a fine performance in light winds.
A high bow flare and freeboard ensure the deck remains dry unless high tides take charge. Like all best bluewater pocket sailboats, this one also has a sufficient standing headroom of six feet one inch.
However, no one knows how many boats remain in existence because many of the Dana 24 were sold as kits and bare hulls. Due to this, you might also find slight differences in the build from boat to boat.
You can get the Pacific Seacraft Dana 24 from Yacht World for $49,000.
- LOA: 27.25 ft.
- LWL: 21.42 ft.
- Beam: 8.85 ft.
- Displacement: 8,000 lbs.
- Ballast: 3,200 lbs.
- Sail Area: 361.22 sq. ft.
- Fresh Water 40 gallons
- First built: 1948
- Last built: 2007
- Designer: W.I.B Crealock
O'Day 28
{{boat-info="/boats/oday-28"}}
The O'Day 28 is a popular sailboat, and you can find one easily as there are over 500 vessels of this super comfortable sailboat. Although produced for a short time between 1978 and 1986, O'Day 28 made its mark quite well as one of the best bluewater pocket sailboats.
Fortunately, O'Day is one of the larger sailboats on this list. So you are in luck if you want to buy a sailboat with ample room and amenities for less money.
Performance-wise, the O'Day 28 is as smooth as they come. It gives a smooth offshore sailing experience among the pocket sailboats thanks to its huge displacement of 7,300 lbs.
However, the larger displacement means you will need to slow down slightly to maneuver the ship comfortably. It could also use a heavier ballast since the factory-installed capacity is limited to 2,550. Although it is enough for a boat this size, there is little room for improvement.
On the bright side, smaller ballast means more room for the cabin and water and fuel capacities. Compared to boats of similar sizes, O'Day can hold 25 gallons of water and 18 gallons of fuel, aiding longer offshore voyages.
You can also install more tanks for extra water capacity in the storage spaces.
O'Day 28's cabin is as roomy as they come. Once you are in the cabin of this sailboat, it won't appear to you that you are inside of a pocket sailboat. This is mainly due to the wide beam of O'Day 28.
Besides that, the cabin is loaded with the basic needs to spend a few refreshing days off the shore. It has multiple berths, a large center table, padded settees, and an icebox — O'Day 28 has all.
Moving upwards, you will find a handful of similarities in the features of this boat and one of a larger boat. A few of them are a raked stern, helm, and a hidden rudder that keeps up the stands. However, O'Day 28 is a lot more than comfort and features.
A large modern-type fin keel keeps the boat stable around the anchor, and the firm beam keeps the boat cruising like the wind against 15 knots.
It will give you decent performance for up to 18-20 knots. Overall, the O'Day 28 is one of the finest pieces of craftsmanship you can find for a bluewater pocket sailboat.
You can get the O'Day 28 from Yacht world for $12,500.
- LOA: 28.25 ft.
- LWL: 22.92 ft.
- Beam: 10.25 ft.
- Displacement: 7,300 lbs.
- Ballast: 2,550 lbs.
- Sail Area: 370 sq. ft.
- Fresh Water: 25 gallons
- Engine: Universal
- First built: 1978
- Last built: 1986
- Developer: Bangor Punta Marine (USA)
- Designer: C. Raymond Hunt Associates
Easy handling, low cost of maintenance, minimalistic designs, basic amenities, all while going offshore — these are the main selling points of the pocket sailboats. All the boats mentioned above will serve you well if you are looking for the best bluewater pocket sailboats. Choose wisely!
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Born into a family of sailing enthusiasts, words like “ballast” and “jibing” were often a part of dinner conversations. These days Jacob sails a Hallberg-Rassy 44, having covered almost 6000 NM. While he’s made several voyages, his favorite one is the trip from California to Hawaii as it was his first fully independent voyage.
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Anyone see the Andrews 28 review in Sail?
- Add to quote
It looks sexy to me. For what it is. Fast in light wind, retractable keel, bowsprit, spartan overnight accomodations, yanmar, smallish. I'm not buying now, but in a few years this might be a boat I could sail. I like that it is on the small size, performs, and is somewhat cruisable. Opinions? Link to the manufacturers website: "Sylvana Yachts" introduces new yachts design: ANDREWS 28
The Andrews 28 is definately not my cup of tea. I can appreciate those who like the modern, racy looks and the likely fast sailing characteristics. However, the cabin is waayyyy too "spartan" for my taste, particularly for a boat claiming to be any part cruiser.
I have yet to be inside one, but one is racing here in Puget sound, looks nice from the outside. Too small for my tastes by 5-7', but still a style of boat I like. If it is in the length range etc that you want, suits you speed wants in a boat, take a look. Do not worry about what others think of the sparteness etc. marty
Andrews 28 Well I had a good look over it at the Vancouver Int'l Boat show and was somewhat impressed. It was built as a sport boat using the latest in technolgy and materials (carbon fiber spars) has a 7' retractable bulb keel, is trailerable and likely a speed demon. As well and lightly built it is, it was not designed for creature comforts and the spartan interior is really a hose it out interior, literally. It is aimed at a specific target market and one should be prepared for minimalist accommodations, strictly camping inside. This boat will cost about $100,000.00 canadian dollars and is made in British Columbia, Canada. Nice boat, but not for me.
Well, maybe I like it since my C27 is already a camper.
I love this boat, and am seriously considering picking one up. The versatility, performance, and design seem hard to match (at any price point). The fact that they are priced in Canadian dollars and accepting the current conversion rate makes it even more sweet. As for comfort, one has to remember that it is just a 28 foot boat. I feel that the layout has everything you need to be comfortable. Plenty of headroom, soft places to sit, hard places to work, and long berths for a good nights sleep. The fact that it is easy to maintain makes it even more attractive, IMO (wood trim does not by itself make an interior 'comfortable' or 'luxurious'...) It has way more interior than comparable sport boats like the Antrim 27 or even a J-105, etc. After it sails absolute circles around more 'comfortable' Hunter 27's and Catalina 28's, it will sit happily on its trailer in either dry storage or driveway while the other boats hemorrhage slip fee money out of their owners (very important here in San Diego.) There are certainly pros and cons to any design, this one hits many of the important aspects of that mix for me.
I saw the review and think it looks pretty good. I like spartan and clean. When was the last time Sail Magazine reviewed anything under 30 feet and less than 3-400,000 dollars.
I went on the Andrews 28 at the Annapolis boat show this past fall. It has a large interior for a 28 foot boat. It is light enough, and has a retractable keel so it can be reasonably trailered. It has a fully functional interior, with an enclosed head, gally, nav/chart area, a nice sized V berth, an under cockpit berth, and settees with table. The interior is almost all white, with little or no trim. Some people don't like it, but I think it is better since it is lighter, easier to keep clean, and better than the paper thin wood veneers that some manufacturers use. And of course, it will sail circles around 99% of the boats its size.
I love it! Where do I sign?
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The Andrews 28 is a 28.0ft fractional sloop designed by Alan Andrews and built in fiberglass by Sylvana Yachts Inc. between 2007 and 2010.
4 units have been built..
The Andrews 28 is an ultralight sailboat which is a very high performer. It is stable / stiff and has a low righting capability if capsized. It is best suited as a racing boat.
Andrews 28 for sale elsewhere on the web:
Main features
| Model | Andrews 28 | ||
| Length | 28 ft | ||
| Beam | 9.82 ft | ||
| Draft | 2.50 ft | ||
| Country | Canada (North America) | ||
| Estimated price | $ 0 | ?? |
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| Sail area / displ. | 27.41 | ||
| Ballast / displ. | 34.40 % | ||
| Displ. / length | 98.05 | ||
| Comfort ratio | 10.46 | ||
| Capsize | 2.53 |
| Hull type | Monohull lifting keel | ||
| Construction | Fiberglass | ||
| Waterline length | 25.75 ft | ||
| Maximum draft | 7 ft | ||
| Displacement | 3750 lbs | ||
| Ballast | 1290 lbs | ||
| Hull speed | 6.80 knots |
We help you build your own hydraulic steering system - Lecomble & Schmitt
| Rigging | Fractional Sloop | ||
| Sail area (100%) | 412 sq.ft | ||
| Air draft | 0 ft | ?? | |
| Sail area fore | 178.31 sq.ft | ||
| Sail area main | 234 sq.ft | ||
| I | 32.42 ft | ||
| J | 11 ft | ||
| P | 36 ft | ||
| E | 13 ft |
| Nb engines | 1 | ||
| Total power | 0 HP | ||
| Fuel capacity | 0 gals |
Accommodations
| Water capacity | 0 gals | ||
| Headroom | 0 ft | ||
| Nb of cabins | 0 | ||
| Nb of berths | 0 | ||
| Nb heads | 0 |
Builder data
| Builder | Sylvana Yachts Inc. | ||
| Designer | Alan Andrews | ||
| First built | 2007 | ||
| Last built | 2010 | ||
| Number built | 4 |
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11 Best Pocket Cruiser Sailboats to Fit a Budget
- By Cruising World Staff
- Updated: May 24, 2024
Looking for a trailerable pocket cruiser that offers that liveaboard feeling? This list features 11 small sailboats with cabins that have the amenities often found on larger vessels. They may not be ocean crossing vessels, but they’re certainly capable of handling big bays and open waters.
What is a pocket cruiser? It’s a small trailerable sailboat, typically under 30 feet in length, that’s ideal for cruising big lakes, bays, coastal ocean waters, and occasionally bluewater cruising. Pocket cruisers are usually more affordable, compact, and offer a level of comfort that’s comparable to bigger liveaboards.
Small cruising sailboats are appealing for many reasons, but if you’re like most of us, you want to maintain a certain level of comfort while on the water. We took a poll and these are what we found to be the best cruising sailboats under 30 feet.
– DON’T LET CARBON MONOXIDE SNEAK UP ON YOU – Install detectors on your boat to sniff out any buildup of carbon monoxide gas. Avoid running engines or generators while anchored or stopped for extended periods. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard
Open and airy below deck, the Andrews 28 doesn’t sacrifice comfort for speed. Designed by Alan Andrews, the Southern California naval architect renowned for his light, fast raceboats, this 28-footer will certainly appeal to the cruiser who also enjoys a little club racing. Sporting a total of 6 berths, a galley, head and nav area, you might forget you are on a boat small enough to be easily trailered. The retractable keel allows the Andrews 28 to be easily launched and hauled and ensures it’s as comfortable as a daysailer as it is a racer. Click here to read more about the Andrews28.
Beneteau First 20
Small sailboat with a cabin? Check! Fun to sail? Modern design? Capable of flying a spinnaker? Check! Check! Check! The Finot-Conq-designed Beneteau First 20, which replaced the popular Beneteau first 211 nearly a decade ago now, is a sporty-but-stable pocket cruiser suitable for newcomers to the sport who are eager to learn their chops before moving up to a bigger boat or for old salts looking to downsize to a trailerable design. The boat features twin rudders, a lifting keel, and a surprisingly roomy interior with bunks for four. Click here to read more about the Beneteau First 20 .
Conceived as a way to bridge the gap between a safe, comfortable, family cruiser and a competitive racer, Gary Mull’s Ranger 26 does exactly as it was designed to. Undeniably fast, (one won the 1970 IOR North American Half-Ton Cup) the boat sails as well as it looks. However speed isn’t the Ranger’s only strong-suit, with over 7 feet of cockpit there’s plenty of room for socializing after an evening of racing. The Ranger 26 sports a nice balance of freeboard and cabin height ensuring that a handsome profile wasn’t sacrificed for standing headroom. Click here to read more about the Ranger 26.
Catboats were once a common site in coastal waters, where they sailed the shallow bays as fishing or work boats. Their large single and often gaff-rigged sail provided plenty of power, and a centerboard made them well-suited for the thin waters they frequently encountered. In the late 1970s, Canadian builder Hinterhoeller introduced the Nonsuch 30, a fiberglass variation of the catboat design, with a modern Marconi sail flown on a stayless mast, and a keel instead of a centerboard. The boat’s wide beam made room below for a spacious interior, and the design caught on quickly with cruising sailors looking for a small bluewater sailboat. Click here to read more about the Nonsuch 30 .
– SHOW THEM HOW MUCH YOU CARE – Nothing says ‘I love you’ like making sure the kids’ life jackets are snugged up and properly buckled. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard
Debuted in 1971 in California, the Newport 27 was an instant success on the local racing scene. For a modest 27-footer, the Newport 27 has an unusually spacious interrior with over 6 feet of standing headroom. With 4 berths, a table, nav station, head and galley the Newport 27 has all the amenities you might find in a much bigger boat, all in a compact package. While quick in light air, the drawback of the tiller steering becomes apparent with increasing breeze and weather helm often leading to shortening sail early. Click here to read more about the Newport 27.
First splashed in 1969, the Balboa 26 continues to enjoy a strong following among budget-minded cruisers. Built sturdy and heavy, all of the boat’s stress points are reinforced. The spacious cockpit comfortably seats 4 and is self bailing, ensuring that sailors stay dry. While only 26 feet, the Balboa still has room for a double berth, galley with stove and freshwater pump, and an optional marine head or V-berth. The Balboa has the ability to sleep five, though the most comfortable number is two or three. Under sail, the Balboa is fast and maneuverable, but may prove a handful in heavy breeze as weather helm increases. Click here to read more about the Balboa 26.
Cape Dory 28
While the sleek lines and the teak accents of the Cape Dory 28 may grab the eye, it is the performance of the boat that make it unique. The Cape Dory comes with all amenities that you might need available, including a V-berth, 2 settees, and a head. Safe, sound and comfortable as a cruiser it is still capable of speed. Quick in light wind and sturdy and capable in heavy air, it is off the wind where the Cape Dory 28 shines with a balanced helm and the ability to cut through chop and still tack perfectly. Click here to read more about the Cape Dory 28.
Islander Bahama 28
On top of being a real eye-catcher, the Islander Bahama 28, with its 5-foot-6-inch draft and 3,300 pounds of ballast, sails beautifully, tracks well, and responds quickly to the helm. Inspired by the International Offshore Rule, it is unusually wide, offering stability in breeze without sacrificing the sheer and lines that make it so attractive. Below deck, the Islander Bahama 28 comes standard with plenty of berths and storage space and a galley complete with stove, icebox and sink. Click here to read more about the Islander Bahama 28.
– CHECK THE WEATHER – The weather changes all the time. Always check the forecast and prepare for the worst case. Safety Tip Provided by the U.S. Coast Guard
Much like its older sibling, the S2 8.6 still holds its contemporary style, despite its 1983 introduction. Like all other S2 Yachts, the 8.6 is recognized for the quality craftsmanship that allows the boat to hold up today.The S2 8.6 is a very comfortable and easily managed coastal cruiser and club racer. It’s relatively stiff, its helm feels balanced, and it tracks well. On most points of sail, it compares favorably with other boats of similar size and type. Click here to read more about the S2 8.6.
Contessa 26
When the Contessa 26 was released in 1965, it immediately proved itself to be a strong, seaworthy vessel. The Contessa has continued to prove itself throughout its lifetime, being the boat of choice for two solo circumnavigations under the age of 21. While upwind performance leaves some wanting, the boat is sturdy and can carry full sail in up to 20 knots of breeze. Suited more for single-handing, the Contessa lacks standing headroom and the accommodations are sparse. Nonetheless, the Contessa 26 performs well as a daysailer with guests aboard. Click here to read more about the Contessa 26.
The Hunter 27 perfectly encompasses the pocket cruiser ideal. Even if you don’t want a big boat, you can still have big boat amenities. With the generously spacious layout, wheel steering and a walkthrough transom the Hunter feels much larger than 27 feet. Step below deck and any doubts you had that the Hunter was secretly a big boat will be gone. The amenities below are endless; a full galley including stove, microwave and cooler, head with full shower, several berths and not to mention a saloon with seating for 6. The Hunter 27 has reset the benchmark for 27-footers. Click here to read more about the Hunter 27.
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Construction
The hull and deck are vacuum-infused with knitted biaxial and unidirectional fiberglass, closed-cell PVC core, and vynilester resin. The keel trunk is integrated with the overall hull structure and has substantial layers of fiberglass for stiffness. Additional fiberglass and high-density foam are also added where deck hardware is mounted. The rudder is molded of carbon fiber and injected with high-density epoxy foam. The retractable keel consists of a stainless-steel strut surrounded by a fiberglass shell, and a lead bulb.
The high-aspect ratio carbon foil sits in a carbon sleeve, which is mounted to solid gudgeons on the transom. This is a clever way to benefit from the simplicity and responsive helm feel that comes with a tiller controlled aft-mounted rudder, while also making it easy to retract/remove the rudder (just pull it up through the sleeve). The tiller is also built of lightweight carbon. In other respects, the deck layout is similar to what you’d find on most modern 28-foot sportboats. The transom is wide open (except for the rudder mount of course), the mainsheet and traveler controls are right where you want them, and the cockpit is big enough for a racing crew but also has backrests cruisers will like.
Accommodations
So, the boat is fast, stiff, and trailerable. What about the accommodations? The 28’s profile may appear a bit tall when compared to other sportboats, but you can see why when you step below. There’s no hunching and hitting your head on a low-slung coachroof. The 5’10” headroom is a boon. The saloon has padded seats and several storage cubbies, and is more comfortable than some other amped-up sportboats. There’s room for two to sleep forward in the V-berth and room for two more in the saloon (good sea berths). The carbon settee table hinges up to reveal the lifting eye on the top of the keel. The galley actually has a little counter and sink, as well as a stove, and there’s even decent headroom in the head. It is perfectly comfortable for a night between races or on a weekend cruise.
We had about 6-8 knots of breeze for our test sail and the boat really seemed to love the light stuff. We were cranking along at an easy 6 knots upwind without working too hard. It was easy to keep the boat in the groove and the helm was alive, just as you’d expect from a relatively lightweight, tiller-controlled boat.
Tacking the 103 percent jib took the elbow grease out of grinding in a bigger genoa and frankly, we didn’t seem to need any more upwind sail area. The 1,290 pound retractable bulb keel drawing 7 feet (this is how you build a boat that is easy to trailer as well as being stiff and fast) kept the boat on its feet and the sail plan hit the sweet spot between being sufficiently powerful as well as being easy to handle. The real fun happened when we turned downwind. That’s when we hoisted the 1,065 square foot asymmetric on the retractable carbon sprit and really took off. Sailing hot, tight reach angles, boat speed punched into the eights and was hovering in the 7’s; not bad for a 28 footer in hardly any wind. The 28 has a current PHRF rating of 94.
We were having so much fun, we lost track of where we were, and then Sploosh. We bumped the bulb into the mud at the mouth of the Severn River. No problem. We just rigged the portable winch on the cabin top, fed the hoisting line through the hole in the deck, and hoisted the keel until we were free. The keel is not designed to be adjustable under way, but this little escapade shows how beefy the keel trunk is (no damage), and how useful it is to be able to lift the keel when you need to. The keel retracts until the bulb meets the hull and the hull sits flat on a low trailer and can be easily launched from a ramp.
Under power
The boat has a 10 horsepower Yanmar diesel with a Saildrive unit and folding propeller. It has plenty of power to push the boat up to 7 knots, but the boat’s light air performance is so good that you may not want to turn the engine on except when the wind speed dial reads zero.
It sailed like a witch in the light stuff. The lifting keel saved us lots of trouble getting off a shoal. I didn’t bump my head too much down below, and the helm has a responsive feel that brought a smile to my face. Seems like Sylvana Yachts answered all the questions they were asked.
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Nice looking boat, love the extra headroom it offers!
-Dan Webmaster @ Inflatable Boats
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Sailboat News Boat Reviews Andrews 28 The Andrews 28 sportboat is Canadian builder Sylvana Yacht s answer to the question Can you build a boat that s fast, stiff, easy to sail, and easy to trailer with enough interior space to be a comfortable cruiser as well?
The Andrews 28 has a deck-stepped, carbon-fiber, swept-spreader rig that's set up for either masthead or fractional spinnakers. The 7-foot keel, which can be raised for easy launching, is a ...
Where the Andrews 28 really makes hay, however, is under sail, as we learned in challenging winds between 5 to 8 knots on Chesapeake Bay. With its handy coarse-and-fine mainsheet options, backstay adjuster, and traveler, along with the adjustable headsail sheet leads and in-haulers, the 28 is an eminently tweakable boat.
Here's a new fast looking racer-cruiser from one of my favorite designers, Alan Andrews, who has his office in Long Beach, California. Over the years I think all of Alan's boats have been excellent performers and I don't see why this little dual-purpose design should be any different. "Dual purpose" might be a bit confusing. Is it a racer or is it a cruiser? I spoke to the builder, Ivan ...
The combination keel and rudder adjustability make the Andrews 28 much more than just another reincarnation of a Midget Offshore Racing Club (MORC) boat. When it comes to weekend adventure or a weekslong summer cruise in a remote trailer-sailing destination, theres much going for the A-28.
If you are a boat enthusiast looking to get more information on specs, built, make, etc. of different boats, then here is a complete review of ANDREWS 28. Built by Sylvana Yachts Inc. and designed by Alan Andrews, the boat was first built in 2007. It has a hull type of Lifting Keel and LOA is 8.53. Its sail area/displacement ratio 27.38. Its auxiliary power tank, manufactured by Yanmar, runs ...
Specifications and Review of Andrews 28 based on the boat's specifications and artificial intelligense.
The Andrews 28 was designed for Sylvana Yachts to fit the need for a high performance trailerable racer/cruiser. In addition to great performance this boat has a comfortable cockpit with seating for six or more. Below decks there are double berths forward and aft, a mid-cabin table, full galley, navigation station and enclosed head.
The Andrews 28 was designed by Alan Andrews, an award winning designer who was involved in every aspect of the boat's development. Builder Ivan Ivandic of Sylvana Yachts in Penticton, British Columbia, Canada, worked closely with Andrews to limit weight while maximizing stiffness and strength.
Andrews 28 is a 27′ 11″ / 8.5 m monohull sailboat designed by Alan Andrews and built by Sylvana Yachts Inc. between 2007 and 2010.
The best bluewater pocket sailboats include the Andrews 28, Ranger 26, Pacific Seacraft Flicka 20, Pacific Seacraft Allegra 24, Pearson 35, and the Catalina 275 Sport. There are several others you can find on the market. But these are the top bluewater pocket sailboats.
The Andrews really responds to trim changes between the two modes; although that can obviously have an impact on tacking angles as well. I will say that the boat is very fast tacking for a big 28'. With the non overlapper and stiff carbon rudder turns are carved very quickly; that in itself takes some getting used too.
Where the Andrews 28 really makes hay, however, is under sail, as we learned in challenging winds between 5 to 8 knots on Chesapeake Bay. With its handy coarse-and-fine mainsheet options, backstay adjuster, and traveler, along with the adjustable headsail sheet leads and in-haulers, the 28 is an eminently tweakable boat.
By Bill Springer Posted March 10, 2009 The Andrews 28 sportboat is Canadian builder Sylvana Yacht's answer to the question "Can you build a boat that's fast, stiff, easy to sail, and easy to trailer with enough interior space to be a comfortable cruiser as well?" It's a question that builders have been trying to answer for years, and at first glance, the Andrews 28 may be on to ...
Boat Review Forum. SailNet is a forum community dedicated to Sailing enthusiasts. ... classifieds, troubleshooting, repairs, reviews, maintenance, and more! Anyone see the Andrews 28 review in Sail? 3723 Views 9 Replies 9 Participants Last post by nemier, Mar 10, 2009. A. ajf10 Discussion starter · Mar 3, 2009 (Edited) Add to quote; Share Only ...
The Andrews 28 is a 28.0ft fractional sloop designed by Alan Andrews and built in fiberglass by Sylvana Yachts Inc. between 2007 and 2010. Andrews 28 detailed characteristics and performance ratios.
Thanks to Gary S. for providing correction. Sailboat Forum
What is a pocket cruiser? It's a small trailerable sailboat, typically under 30 feet in length, that's ideal for cruising big lakes, bays, coastal ocean waters, and occasionally bluewater cruising. Pocket cruisers are usually more affordable, compact, and offer a level of comfort that's comparable to bigger liveaboards.
Agree with list? 11 Best Pocket Cruiser Sailboats to Fit a Budget List of the 11 below. These seem to big to be trailered, no? How and with what would you trailer some of these boats? Cruising Wolrd 11 Best Pocket Cruiser Sailboats Andrews 28 Beneteau First 20 Ranger 26 Nonsuch 30 Newport 27 Balboa 26 Cape Dory 28 Islander Bahama 28 S2 8.6 Contessa 26 Hunter 27 14 comments Best Add a Comment ...
SPECIFICATIONS. Andrews 28. 259 Marine Drive, Long Beach, CA. • Female molded, vacuum infused high quality vinylester resin E-glass sandwich construction, employing knitted biaxial fiber and unidirectional glass reinforcements with variable thickness and density PVC closed cell foam. • Local reinforcing with additional glass and high ...
The Andrews 28 sportboat is Canadian builder Sylvana Yacht's answer to the question "Can you build a boat that's fast, stiff, easy to sail, and easy to trailer with enough interior space to be a comfortable cruiser as well?" It's a question that builders have been trying to answer for years, and at first glance, the Andrews 28 may be on to something. I took a test sail off Annapolis ...
Andrews 28. 41 likes. Andrews 28: Sylvana Yachts Inc. is proud to introduce to the sailing world a new Alan Andrews design - Andrews 28 - a Sport Cruiser sailboat.
[2009-04-21] REVIEWS - Sail Magazine: Andrews 28 - By Bill Springer Posted March 10, 2009 - On Board SAIL, BY SVEN DONALDSON <go to ARCHIVES page> - Dobbs Davis Takes a Look at Alan Andrews Design <go to ARCHIVES page> [2009-03-01] See new ARCHIVES page for reviews & articles. <go to ARCHIVES page>