Impala 28-2 (Thomas) Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The Impala 28-2 emerged from Hunter Boats Ltd.'s Rochford factory in 1977, a period when the company, under the influential design hand of David Thomas, was becoming a prominent name in British yachting. Thomas, who became Hunter's designer of choice from 1975, conceived the Impala as an Offshore One Design (OOD) concept, aiming for a vessel that was both competitive on the racecourse and functional for cruising. His success was immediate, with Thomas himself winning the inaugural National Championship for the class in 1979.

During its production run, the Impala 28-2 underwent some refinements. Early iterations featured an outboard engine option, with an inboard Yanmar 1GM 9 HP diesel engine introduced later, around 1988, for existing boats or as a later class rule adaptation, which impacted the minimum displacement requirements. Responding to changes in International Offshore Rule (I.O.R.) ratings, a lead shoe was added to the keel to avoid penalties, and further lead ballast was later standardized to balance both inboard and outboard configurations. A notable common alteration by owners has been the conversion from outboard to inboard power and the upgrade to a "MkII rudder," indicating a continuous evolution of the model beyond its initial production years. Hunter Boats transitioned its focus more towards cruisers from 1984, which coincided with the end of the Impala 28-2's production, marking it as one of their successful performance-oriented designs before this strategic shift.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hunter Impala 28-2 is widely praised for its spirited performance and enjoyable handling characteristics. Described as "viceless" and exceptionally balanced, she offers a "joy to helm" with a well-balanced sail plan. The boat's design gives her an impressive turn of speed, particularly in light airs, thanks to a generously sized sail plan. Owners frequently report that the Impala 28-2 excels upwind, demonstrating excellent pointing ability and often proving difficult to beat on IRC handicap in medium winds (10-20 knots).

While generally well-regarded for its agility and responsiveness—likened to "a big dinghy" when under spinnaker—some owners have noted that the original rudder can be "a handful in windy weather" and prone to losing its grip. This characteristic can be mitigated by careful rig tuning, which can also help reduce pitching in waves. Despite this, the consensus remains that the Impala 28-2 goes "upwind much better than most 28ft" boats, cementing its status as a capable and rewarding sailing vessel.

Accommodations and Layout

Below deck, the Hunter Impala 28-2 offers a functional, albeit "a bit basic," interior suitable for coastal cruising and weekend trips. The layout typically includes a V-berth forward, providing sleeping accommodations for two. A "proper sea head" (marine toilet) is located forward, adjacent to the V-berth, offering essential facilities. The main saloon features a galley and a chart table, often mounted on the main bulkhead, optimizing the use of space in the compact living area. While specific details on materials and finish quality require a direct inspection, the general approach aligns with the practical, well-built ethos of Hunter Boats, focusing on utility and durability for active sailors.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hunter Impala 28-2 consistently commend the boat for its solid construction, dependable performance, and ability to handle various conditions. The active Impala 28 Class Association fosters a strong community, providing a valuable resource for owners, from tuning guides to cruising advice and maintenance tips.

Common modifications and areas of attention for owners often include the aforementioned upgrades to the rudder and conversions from outboard to inboard engines. While anecdotal reports suggest the original rudder can be challenging in heavy air, this is a known characteristic within the community, with solutions and discussions widely available. Overall, the Impala 28-2 maintains a loyal following, appreciated for its lively sailing characteristics and robust build quality, which continue to make it a popular choice for those seeking a capable and engaging small cruiser-racer.