Endeavour 28 (Aus) Information, Review, Specs

The Endeavour 28 began production in 1974. It was designed by Reg Gardner, the visionary founder of Endeavour Yachts, who aimed to make well-designed, accessible yachts available to the Australian market 1, 2, Builder Article. As a "stretched version" of the Endeavour 26, the 28 incorporated and expanded upon the popular features of its predecessor. During this era, Endeavour Yachts was a pioneer in the mass production of fiberglass yachts in Australia, known for their practical, robust, and often performance-oriented vessels that balanced sailing capability with cruising comfort. The company offered the Endeavour 28 either fully fitted out or in various stages of construction, providing some flexibility for owners.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Endeavour 28 is characterized by a design that prioritizes stability and comfortable performance. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/D) ratio of approximately 19.10, the boat exhibits good performance in lighter winds, suggesting it is responsive and can maintain speed even when the breeze is gentle. Its Ballast to Displacement (B/D) ratio of around 41.43% indicates a stiff and stable hull, capable of standing up to more significant wind and sea conditions, and possessing excellent righting capability. The Displacement to Length (D/L) ratio of approximately 242 categorizes the Endeavour 28 as a moderate cruiser, balancing its robust build with respectable sailing characteristics. Overall, the Endeavour 28 is described as a very stable and stiff vessel, making it well-suited for its role as a coastal cruiser.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the interior of the Endeavour 28 is designed to offer practical accommodations for cruising families. Typical layouts for boats of this size from the era often include a V-berth forward, a main salon with settees that can serve as berths, a galley area, and an enclosed head. Owner discussions suggest the 28 model frequently featured twin settees in the main salon, contributing to its family-friendly appeal. The boat is equipped with an enclosed head, which sometimes includes a shower. The overall design focuses on providing comfortable living spaces suitable for coastal voyages, reflecting the builder's ethos of creating accessible and functional yachts.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of Endeavour yachts, including the 28, benefit from a strong sense of community, with active owner associations dedicated to maintaining and enjoying these classic Australian-built vessels. The brand's reputation for solid construction and thoughtful design means that many Endeavour yachts remain popular and actively sailed today. These boats are often praised for their reliability and good value, continuing to appeal to sailors seeking manageable yachts that perform well and offer enduring enjoyment.