Countess 28 (Colvic) Information, Review, Specs

The Colvic Countess 28 began production in 1980, aligning with Colvic Craft's established ethos of producing durable and accessible fiberglass yachts. Founded in 1964 by Colin Burns and Vic Pascoe, Colvic Craft rapidly became a prominent builder in the United Kingdom by embracing Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) construction, a material chosen for its strength, longevity, and reduced maintenance needs compared to traditional timber. Colvic's manufacturing model often involved supplying GRP hulls and decks to other boatyards for completion, meaning that while the foundational structure was consistent, the final fit-out and interior layouts of Countess 28s could vary significantly depending on the finishing yard.

Designed by Ian Anderson, the Countess 28 reflects a philosophy centered on practicality and seaworthiness. While specific details about Anderson's personal design goals for this model are not extensively documented, the boat embodies Colvic's overall commitment to robust, blue-water capable vessels. The Countess 28 was primarily built with a twin keel configuration, also known as a bilge keel, offering the advantage of being able to take the ground. A less common single fixed keel option was also available. Production of Colvic Craft vessels continued until the company's liquidation in 2000, ensuring a considerable number of Countess 28s were built over two decades.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Colvic Countess 28 is characterized by a masthead sloop rig and a twin keel hull form, contributing to her reputation as a stable and forgiving cruiser. While perhaps not the fastest vessel on the water, particularly when compared to lighter, more performance-oriented designs, she is known for her solid and safe handling characteristics. Owners often describe her as a "bit slower and less reactive to the waves and choppy seas" than some competitors, which translates into a more comfortable motion in a seaway. Her design prioritizes stability, making her a suitable choice for those seeking a dependable and comfortable ride, whether on coastal day sails or longer voyages.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite her compact length overall of just 28 feet, the Colvic Countess 28 is notable for her generous interior volume. As Colvic often supplied hulls for completion by various builders, the specific interior layouts and finish standards can vary greatly from one vessel to another. However, the design generally offers ample living space for a boat of her size. Owners often describe the interior as having plenty of room, with a typical arrangement expected to include a V-berth forward, a saloon with settees that may convert into berths, a galley area, and a dedicated head compartment. The high-volume hull contributes to comfortable on-board living, emphasizing practicality and functionality suitable for family cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Colvic Countess 28 frequently commend the boat for its sturdy build and solid hull construction. These vessels are often praised for their inherent stability and generous interior volumes, making them well-suited for extended cruising and comfortable living aboard. The ability of the twin-keel version to take the ground is a significant advantage often highlighted by owners, offering flexibility in mooring and exploring shallow areas.

However, common maintenance considerations, particularly for the twin-keel models, have been noted. The GRP keel bases can be vulnerable to abrasion damage, which, if neglected, may lead to issues such as rust in internal steel components and subsequent expansion problems. Despite this, the Colvic Countess 28 maintains a dedicated community of owners, including a Countess Owners Association, who actively share knowledge and support, a testament to the enduring appeal of these robust and practical cruising yachts.