Finngulf 28 Information, Review, Specs

Finngulf Yachts, established in 1981 by Stig Nordblad, transitioned from a brokerage firm to a highly respected builder. The company's vision, rooted in Nordblad's desire to create high-performance sailing yachts, quickly materialized with the Finngulf 34, setting the stage for subsequent successful models like the Finngulf 28. Known for their "FG Performance" philosophy, Finngulf aimed to deliver vessels that offered a blend of performance, seaworthiness, and comfortable cruising, characteristics clearly evident in the Finngulf 28.

History and Design

The Finngulf 28 made its debut in 1985, a creation of the renowned Swedish naval architect Håkan Södergren. Södergren was instrumental in Finngulf's early success, imbuing their designs with a distinctive blend of performance and classic yachting aesthetics. While specific design goals for the Finngulf 28 are not extensively documented, Södergren's general philosophy for Finngulf models emphasized high-quality construction and excellent sailing characteristics, aligning with the builder's ethos of crafting "hand-crafted, classic sailing yachts for owners who demand quality." Finngulf yachts of this era were typically constructed using GRP (Glass Reinforced Plastic) with a foam core for enhanced strength and insulation, a practice that contributed to their robust reputation. During its production run, there was also a later iteration known as the Finngulf 28e, designed by Karl-Johan "Kamu" Stråhlmann, which continued the legacy as a successful cruiser/racer.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Finngulf 28 exhibits a design optimized for an engaging sailing experience. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 20.5, she possesses a respectable amount of canvas relative to her weight. This ratio suggests a yacht that should perform admirably in light to moderate winds, responding well to subtle changes in air pressure without being overly sluggish. Her ballast to displacement ratio (Bal/Disp) of nearly 42% indicates a high degree of initial stability and stiffness, allowing her to stand up to a breeze and carry her sail area effectively even as the wind strengthens.

Furthermore, the Finngulf 28's displacement-to-length ratio (Disp/LWL) of around 275 lbs/ft places her squarely in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser. This balance typically translates to a comfortable motion in a seaway, without sacrificing too much performance. Equipped with a fin keel and spade rudder, the Finngulf 28 is lauded for its splendid maneuverability and ease of handling. Anecdotal reports suggest that even the Finngulf 28e, a later variant, is easy to handle, even in strong winds, and maintains good stability. These characteristics underscore Finngulf's commitment to building yachts that are both rewarding to sail and forgiving for their crew.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its modest length overall of just under 28 feet, the Finngulf 28 is designed to offer a practical and "cosy" interior. While specific headroom figures are not available, the typical layout found on Finngulf 28 models often features a traditional arrangement, making efficient use of the available space. Interiors are generally finished with quality materials, with teak commonly used, providing a classic yachting ambiance.

A common configuration includes a V-berth forward, a saloon with settees that may convert to berths, a galley area, and a navigation station. While the Finngulf 28e has been noted for a successful overall layout, some minor criticisms have been raised regarding elements like the nav station in certain variants. Storage solutions are typically integrated throughout the cabin, providing space for provisions and personal gear. Ventilation would typically be managed via deck hatches and opening ports, common features on boats of this size and era. The design emphasis is on functionality and comfort for weekend cruising or short coastal passages, reflecting the builder's focus on practical performance cruisers.