Ericson 28-2 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Ericson 28-2 debuted in 1986, emerging from a period when Ericson Yachts, under the guidance of Gene and Don Kohlman, continued its prolific production of sailboats, even amidst a turbulent marine industry. As with many of Ericson's successful models, the 28-2 was a product of the brand's profound and enduring collaboration with naval architect Bruce King. King's design philosophy for Ericson centered on creating vessels with balanced sailing characteristics, comfortable interiors, and pleasing lines, all underpinned by robust construction methods.

A key design feature of the Ericson 28-2, indicative of King's advanced approach, is its Tri-axial Force Grid (TAFG) system. This integrated internal grid contributed significantly to the hull's stiffness and strength. Notably, the 28-2 is a distinct and later iteration compared to earlier Ericson 28 models, such as the Ericson 28+, and was specifically designed to rectify or avoid certain issues present in its predecessors, reinforcing its status as a refined model.

Sailing Performance and Handling

With a length overall of 28.0 feet and a waterline length of 23.33 feet, the Ericson 28-2 is characterized by a moderate displacement, tipping the scales at 7,500 pounds. This places it in the moderately heavy cruiser category, as indicated by a Displacement to Length ratio of approximately 263.6. Its sail plan features a fractional sloop rig with a total calculated sail area of 411.25 square feet. The Sail Area to Displacement ratio, around 17.02, suggests a reasonably good performer, capable of moving well in a range of conditions without being a dedicated light-air boat or an out-and-out racer.

The boat's stability is further enhanced by its 3,200 pounds of ballast, yielding a Ballast to Displacement ratio of 0.426. This relatively high ratio contributes to its notable stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a breeze and offer a comfortable motion in a seaway. Anecdotal evidence from owners often highlights the Ericson 28-2 as a stable and stiff boat. Owners have found it to be a capable vessel for various sailing activities, from coastal cruising to single-handed racing.

Accommodations and Layout

While specific headroom figures are not consistently available, the Ericson 28-2 is generally described as offering a comfortable and well-laid-out interior for its size. Its beamy design (10.0 feet) contributes to a feeling of spaciousness below deck. Typically for a cruiser of this length, the interior layout would feature a conventional V-berth forward, followed by a main salon with settees that often convert to berths, and a dining table. A compact galley, likely equipped with a sink, stove, and icebox, would be situated opposite or aft of the salon. A dedicated head compartment would also be expected.

Owner feedback frequently praises the overall deck and cockpit layout, finding it well-suited for cruising and comfortable for its size. The general consensus among those familiar with Ericson's build quality suggests a well-finished interior, often featuring classic wood trim and sturdy construction, contributing to the enduring appeal of these vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

The Ericson 28-2 enjoys a strong reputation among its owners, many of whom regard it as one of their favorite boats. Owners consistently praise the brand's overall build quality, noting the solid construction characteristic of Ericson yachts from this era. The design by Bruce King is also frequently highlighted as a strength, contributing to the boat's balanced performance and pleasing aesthetics.

Unlike some earlier models, the Ericson 28-2 was designed to mitigate common issues, suggesting a more refined product by the time of its introduction. While general maintenance concerns typical of boats from the 1980s, such as re-bedding deck fittings, might arise, specific widespread design flaws for the 28-2 are not commonly reported. The active owner community on platforms like EricsonYachts.org further reinforces the lasting appeal and practicality of these vessels, providing a valuable resource for maintaining and enjoying these classic cruisers.