Intrepid 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Intrepid 28 began its production run in 1979 under the Intrepid Yachts marque, a subsidiary of Cape Dory Yachts. With only 10 units built, it represents a brief but notable chapter in Cape Dory's history, known for its dedication to traditional design and robust fiberglass construction. The vessel is directly based on the Grampian 28, which was originally designed by Rolf van der Sleen and first introduced in 1975 by Grampian Marine Ltd. in Canada. This shared heritage means the Intrepid 28 benefits from the proven design and tooling of its Canadian predecessor. Cape Dory's manufacturing ethos, characterized by a commitment to quality and durability, ensured that these fiberglass vessels were built to stand the test of time, a reputation that has endured for decades.

The design philosophy behind the Grampian 28, and by extension the Intrepid 28, favored a slightly more spacious hull, differentiating it from many contemporary designs of similar size. Owners often praise the Grampian 28 for its seaworthiness, indicating that the design was intended for reliable performance in varied conditions rather than purely for racing.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Intrepid 28 is configured as a masthead sloop with a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a combination that typically provides a good balance of maneuverability and directional stability. With a length overall of 28.0 feet and a waterline length of 24.5 feet, she is designed to offer a comfortable motion through the water. Her theoretical hull speed is calculated at 6.63 knots.

Owners of the Grampian 28, upon which the Intrepid 28 is based, have described them as "roomy, safe, and very seaworthy boats." This suggests a dependable character on the water, capable of handling various coastal conditions. While some owners speak to their "fast" nature, a practical assessment points to a solid and stable sailing experience suitable for cruising. One owner of an Intrepid 28, however, noted that the boat "does not sail well under main sail alone," suggesting that its full masthead sloop rig is best utilized with both sails for optimal performance and balance. The skeg-hung rudder offers protected steering, enhancing its suitability for coastal and potentially offshore passages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size, the Intrepid 28, inheriting the Grampian 28's design, is noted for a surprisingly generous interior layout. Its hull design was consciously made to be "more spacy" than many comparable sailboats, contributing to a comfortable living area below deck. A typical interior arrangement for this design includes a functional salon, often with opposing settees that can convert into berths, and a galley area suitable for preparing meals. Notably, the layout includes a quarter berth, adding to the sleeping capacity. While specific details on headroom are not available in the provided data, the emphasis on interior volume suggests a design that prioritizes liveability. The finish quality, typical of Cape Dory's era, would likely feature solid fiberglass construction and practical, durable materials, though extensive wood trim may be more modest in a boat of this size compared to larger Alberg-designed Cape Dorys.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Grampian 28, the direct antecedent of the Intrepid 28, frequently commend their vessels for being "roomy, safe, and very seaworthy." Many have reported undertaking significant voyages, with some even crossing oceans, underscoring the robust build and inherent capabilities of the design for its size. The solid construction and stable ride are often cited as major strengths, providing a sense of security on the water. However, a specific sailing characteristic mentioned by an Intrepid 28 owner is that the boat "does not sail well under main sail alone," implying that the full sail plan is necessary for balanced and efficient performance. Like many boats of its vintage, potential maintenance considerations typically revolve around the age of original systems and fittings, but the underlying fiberglass hull structure is generally regarded as exceptionally durable.