Ranger 28 Information, Review, Specs

The Ranger 28 was introduced in 1976 and remained in production until 1978, with approximately 130 units built during this period. While its predecessor, the Ranger 29, was also a Mull design, the Ranger 28 was a completely new creation, clearly influenced by the International Offshore Rule (IOR) of the time. Gary Mull, a prolific and successful U.S. sailboat designer of the late 20th century, focused on crafting "fast and fun" boats, a philosophy evident in the Ranger 28's performance-oriented lines.

During this era, Jensen Marine, under the stewardship of Bangor Punta Corporation, was dedicated to producing "competitive, well-designed racing and cruising yachts" that emphasized "performance and innovation." This corporate ethos provided the necessary resources to bring Mull's designs to life, making performance sailing more accessible. Throughout its production run, some later models of the Ranger 28, specifically those after hull number 86, were delivered with a taller rig and a deeper keel, extending the draft from 4.5 feet to 5.0 feet, which would have further enhanced its upwind performance.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Ranger 28's design metrics translate into a sailboat with spirited performance and notable stability. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of approximately 20.96, the Ranger 28 indicates strong performance potential, particularly in lighter wind conditions, suggesting it can accelerate quickly and maintain speed effectively. Its high Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of about 0.549 points to exceptional stiffness and stability, allowing the boat to stand up to a significant amount of wind without excessive heeling, providing a comfortable and secure motion in a seaway.

The Displacement to Length (Disp/LWL) ratio of approximately 222.6 places the Ranger 28 in the mid-range of sailboat classifications, indicating it is more performance-oriented than a heavy traditional cruiser, yet still possesses enough volume for comfortable accommodations. Owners have widely praised the Ranger 28 for its competitive nature, with anecdotal reports indicating it dominated the PHRF D class in Marina del Rey for an extended period. It has also been noted for holding the Newport to Bermuda Race record in its class for many years, a testament to its racing prowess. These characteristics contribute to its reputation as a boat offering a unique blend of performance, comfort, and handling.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its racing inclinations, the Ranger 28 offers an interior designed for comfort and practicality, with contemporary advertisements of the era even claiming that as much attention was given to the cabin as to the rigging. Generally, the interior design provides a blend of space and comfort, featuring a spacious interior and ample storage for its size. While specific detailed layouts can vary between individual boats due to owner customizations, typical arrangements for vessels of this size and era usually include a forward V-berth, a main salon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment.

However, some owner feedback suggests that the galley layout, while functional, might not be to everyone's preference, with one owner noting it was "not acceptable to my wife in the current configuration." This indicates that while the interior aims for comfort, certain aspects might require personal customization or adjustment for optimal utility. Overall, the Ranger 28's cabin is designed to be a comfortable retreat after a day of spirited sailing.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Ranger 28 consistently laud its performance capabilities and solid construction, frequently referring to it as a "really good boat" known for its competitive edge and ease of handling. Many praise its blend of performance and comfort, making it suitable for both racing and cruising. The boat has earned a reputation as a "Good Old Boat," with articles featuring it in marine publications, underscoring its enduring appeal and well-regarded design. Its ability to perform well in races, including holding a class record in the Newport to Bermuda Race, is a common point of pride among owners.

However, like many older fiberglass boats, the Ranger 28 is not without its common maintenance considerations. Some owners have reported issues with leaking keel bolts and general wear on the interior over time. A recurring concern noted by some is corrosion at the mast's compression post attachment point to the keel, which may require attention. While not unique to the Ranger 28, leaks at original deck fittings are also a common challenge for boats of this vintage. Despite these potential maintenance items, the dedicated community of Ranger 28 owners often undertakes restoration and upkeep, reflecting the boat's overall durability and the high regard in which it is held.