Hinterhoeller 28 Information, Review, Specs

The story of the Hinterhoeller 28 begins with its namesake designer, George Hinterhoeller, an Austrian immigrant who established himself as a master boatwright in Canada. Driven by a desire for faster, more responsive sailboats than the heavy displacement vessels common on Lake Ontario, Hinterhoeller designed the 28-footer as part of his early independent ventures, preceding his co-founding of C&C Yachts., 5] Production of the HR-28 commenced in 1967, showcasing Hinterhoeller Yachts Ltd.'s commitment to robust fiberglass construction.

The design evolved during its relatively short production run. Earlier versions of the 28-foot model, built from 1964 to mid-1967, featured a "Spoon Bow, Hard Bilge & Bridge Deck" with single lower shrouds. The HR-28, starting in late 1967 and continuing until approximately 1970, introduced a "Knuckle Bow, Soft Bilge" design, notably without lower shrouds. Approximately 86 units of the HR-28 were built before the line was phased out around 1968, in favor of a focus on stricter racing class designs. This evolution reflects George Hinterhoeller's ongoing pursuit of optimized hull forms and performance-oriented designs.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hinterhoeller 28 is characterized as a moderate-weight sailboat known for its reasonably good performance and impressive stability. With a displacement of 6,000 lbs on a waterline length of 21.0 feet, its Displacement to Length ratio calculates to approximately 289.2. This places it in the category of a moderate displacement cruiser, suggesting a comfortable motion in a seaway without sacrificing too much speed. The HR-28's slender hull design is noted for being slimmer than a significant majority of comparable designs, pointing to its efficiency through the water.

A ballast-to-displacement ratio of 0.40 (2,400 lbs of lead ballast in a 6,000 lb boat) indicates a very stable and stiff vessel, capable of standing up to a good breeze and maintaining its sail plan in stronger winds. This stability, combined with a sail area-to-displacement ratio of about 17.62, suggests the Hinterhoeller 28 is a capable performer across a range of wind conditions, particularly responsive in light-to-moderate air. It is rigged as a masthead sloop, which provides a straightforward and powerful sail plan. Owners often praise its balanced helm and predictable handling, contributing to an enjoyable sailing experience.

Accommodations and Layout

While detailed specifications for the Hinterhoeller 28's interior layout are not extensively documented, it adheres to the functional and sensible design philosophy typical of boats from its era and builder. The interior of the HR-28 generally provides a practical arrangement suitable for coastal cruising and weekend trips. Expect a traditional layout, which would typically include a V-berth forward, a compact head compartment, a main salon featuring opposing settees that might convert into berths, and a small galley area.

Given George Hinterhoeller's reputation for robust construction, the interior finish would likely emphasize durability and functionality over elaborate luxury, featuring solid joinery and practical materials common in fiberglass boats of the late 1960s. Storage would be adequate for short to medium excursions, and ventilation would rely on deck hatches and portlights.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hinterhoeller 28, and its closely related HR-28 variant, consistently express enthusiasm for their boats. Many consider them "good old boats," praising their solid construction and robust build quality that has allowed them to endure for decades. The HR-28's sailing characteristics are frequently highlighted as a major strength, with its responsive handling and ability to perform well in various conditions making it a joy to sail. There are anecdotal accounts of these sturdy vessels undertaking significant voyages, including a reported trip to Cape Town and back from the Great Lakes.

As with any vintage vessel, owners acknowledge that HR-28s often require a thorough survey due to their age, and many are undergoing or have undergone refits. Common maintenance considerations, typical of boats of this vintage, might include inspecting original fittings, ensuring the integrity of deck structures, and updating aging systems. Despite these considerations, the active community of owners and the enduring presence of these boats on the water are a testament to the vision and craftsmanship of George Hinterhoeller.