Friendship 28 Information, Review, Specs

The Friendship 28 was introduced in 1974 by Friendship Yachts, a Dutch shipyard established in 1968. Production continued through 1984, though some sources indicate that the model, or variations thereof, saw continued production into the 1990s under successor builders. The design ethos of Friendship Yachts, particularly under the leadership of Anton and Hetty Meijer, focused on creating accessible, well-built sailing yachts that combined comfort with reliable performance for cruising enthusiasts.

The Friendship 28 was designed by Dick Koopmans, a naval architect renowned for creating seaworthy boats. His design philosophy, aligned with Friendship Yachts' commitment, prioritized ease of handling, stability, and maximizing interior volume for a comfortable cruising experience. Over its production run, the Friendship 28 saw variations, notably between the MkI and MkII versions. The MkII, which emerged later, featured a modernized interior layout, including a full toilet room, and was often slightly longer than the original MkI, which reportedly offered a more basic doghouse/quarter berth arrangement under the cockpit.

Sailing Performance and Handling

While the Friendship 28 is just under 30 feet in length, a size where traditional performance ratios are less universally applicable, its design provides a clear indication of its sailing characteristics. Owners frequently praise the Friendship 28 for its very good sailing performance, with some asserting it can outperform newer cruising boats of similar lengths. It is also recognized for its ease of operation, making it a suitable choice for single-handed sailing or for those new to yachting.

The boat's fin keel and spade rudder contribute to its maneuverability. The Friendship 28 was offered with at least two keel options: a shallow draft keel of approximately 3.9 feet (1.2 meters) and a deeper draft keel of 5.25 feet (1.6 meters). The deeper keel variant is noted to provide significantly enhanced stability. Generally, the Friendship 28 is considered a stable and fast yacht, capable of handling various sea states with a comfortable motion. Its solid laminated fiberglass hull contributes to its robust and seaworthy nature.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Friendship 28 is designed to offer a surprisingly spacious and comfortable living environment for its size. With a maximum headroom of 6.0 feet, the cabin provides ample space for movement below deck. The typical layout features a one-cabin and saloon arrangement, characterized by warm wood finishes that contribute to a classic and inviting atmosphere.

The MkII version of the Friendship 28, in particular, introduced a more modernized layout, incorporating a dedicated toilet room, which was a significant improvement over the MkI's more basic configuration. While specific details on storage and ventilation are not always highlighted, the "clever layout" suggests efficient use of space, providing practical solutions for extended cruising.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners consistently commend the Friendship 28 for its solid construction and robust build quality, reinforcing its reputation as a durable pre-owned vessel. Many appreciate its forgiving sailing characteristics, stability, and ease of handling, often recommending it as an excellent choice for beginner sailors. The fiberglass hull's low maintenance requirements during and outside the sailing season are also frequently cited as a positive attribute.

While generally well-regarded, some owners have noted that potential issues to monitor include mast deterioration, suggesting this as an area that might require attention in older models. Overall, the collective sentiment among owners highlights the Friendship 28 as a practical, seaworthy, and comfortable cruiser that continues to provide reliable service decades after its initial launch.