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J28
Designer: Rodney S. Johnstone  ·  Builder: J Boats Tillotson Pearson  ·  First built: 1986
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About the J28

With limited technical specifications available, the J28 represents an intriguing entry in the sailboat market that warrants closer examination by prospective buyers. As part of the broader sailing community's offerings, this vessel appears positioned to serve sailors seeking a balance between performance and practicality. Given the naming convention and typical design philosophies of boats in this size range, the J28 likely emphasizes clean lines and efficient sailing characteristics. Boats of this classification generally excel in coastal cruising environments while maintaining enough capability for extended passages in favorable conditions. The design probably incorporates modern sailing technology to deliver responsive handling and reliable performance across varying wind conditions. For sailors evaluating their options, the J28 presents an opportunity to experience sailing without the complexity of larger vessels, while still offering sufficient space and capability for serious sailing adventures. The boat's characteristics likely make it suitable for both recreational day sailing and weekend cruising, appealing to sailors who value versatility in their sailing platform. Prospective owners should conduct thorough research and sea trials to fully understand this boat's capabilities and determine if it matches their specific sailing aspirations and requirements.

Core Dimensions
LOA (Length Overall) 28.50 ft / 8.69 m
LWL (Waterline Length) 24.00 ft / 7.32 m
Beam 10.00 ft / 3.05 m
Max Draft 5.00 ft / 1.52 m
Displacement 7,900.00 lb / 3,583 kg
Ballast 3,000.00 lb / 1,361 kg
Sail Area (Reported) 412.00 ft² / 38.28 m²
Design & Construction
Hull Type Fin w/spade rudder
Rigging Type Fractional Sloop
Construction FG
Designer Rodney S. Johnstone
Builder J Boats Tillotson Pearson
First Built 1986
Last Built 1988
Owner Reviews

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Performance Ratios
SA/Displacement Sail Area to Displacement ratio measures how much sail power a boat has relative to its weight. Higher values mean more performance and speed.
Under 14 — Heavy cruiser, slow14–18 — Cruising sailboat18–22 — Cruiser/racerOver 22 — Performance racer
16.67
Comfort Ratio Ted Brewer's Comfort Ratio predicts how comfortable a boat will feel in offshore conditions. Higher values mean a steadier, more comfortable motion in a seaway.
Under 20 — Uncomfortably rough20–30 — Acceptable coastal30–40 — Good offshore comfortOver 40 — Very comfortable offshore
22.43
Capsize Screening Formula The USHS Capsize Screening Formula estimates offshore capsize risk. Lower is safer — values under 2.0 are considered acceptable for offshore sailing.
Under 2.0 — Safe for offshore2.0–2.2 — Borderline offshoreOver 2.2 — Coastal use recommended
2.01
Hull Speed Hull Speed is the theoretical maximum speed of a displacement hull, calculated from waterline length. Most cruising sailboats reach this speed in moderate conditions. 6.56
S# (Speed Number) The Speed Number (S#) is a quick performance index. Higher values indicate a faster, more powerful design relative to its size.
Under 3.0 — Slow cruiser3.0–5.0 — Average cruiser5.0–7.0 — Performance cruiserOver 7.0 — Racer
2.1
Pounds/Inch Immersion Pounds per Inch Immersion (PPI) tells you how much weight is needed to sink the boat one inch. Useful for calculating how additional gear and stores affect waterline. 857.55
Rig Dimensions
I (Foretriangle Height) 34.0
J (Foretriangle Base) 10.5
P (Mainsail Luff) 36.0
E (Mainsail Foot) 13.0
SA Fore 178.5
SA Main 234.0
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