Hutton 28 Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Hutton 28 is intrinsically linked to its builder, Hutton Yachts, founded in 1978 by brothers Paul and Carl Hutton in Brookvale, New South Wales, Australia. Paul Hutton's background, including service as a boat captain in the Royal British Navy, likely instilled a practical and well-engineered approach to boat design and construction. The Hutton 28, commencing production in 1980, marked the company's entry into the performance-oriented sailing market. Hutton Yachts operated for a concise period, ceasing production in 1982, meaning the Hutton 28 was their primary and most recognized offering. Built with a solid fiberglass hull and deck, the design emphasized speed and efficiency, leading to its characterization as a "light sailboat" and "high performer." The Hutton brothers' in-house design philosophy directly shaped a vessel optimized for specific sailing conditions, balancing stability with agility.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Hutton 28 boasts performance characteristics that underscore its design as a capable racer/cruiser. With a Sail Area to Displacement (SA/Disp) ratio of 21.71, the Hutton 28 suggests excellent performance in lighter air conditions, enabling it to move efficiently even in marginal breezes. Its Ballast to Displacement (Bal/Disp) ratio of 44.02% is remarkably high for a vessel of its size, indicating a stiff and stable boat that can stand up well to a breeze and maintain its sail plan in stronger winds. This high ballast ratio contributes to its reputation for being "very stable / stiff." Furthermore, a Displacement to Length (Disp/Len) ratio of 172.53 classifies the Hutton 28 as a relatively light and performance-oriented design, reinforcing its ability to sail efficiently. Anecdotal evidence from owners confirms that these boats "sail well," often proving competitive in club racing scenarios. Its calculated hull speed is approximately 6.49 knots. While optimized for speed and efficiency, the design also features a "low righting capability if capsized," a characteristic often found in performance-focused designs that prioritize initial stiffness.

Accommodations and Layout

Despite its compact size of just under 28 feet overall, the Hutton 28 is noted for a surprisingly roomy interior, designed to accommodate family cruising and social activities. The layout typically provides sleeping arrangements for up to six individuals, with a configuration that includes two double berths and two single berths. The generous beam of 9.32 feet contributes significantly to the interior volume and provides a spacious cockpit, making it comfortable for entertaining or simply relaxing under the stars. While specific details on the galley and head arrangement require in-person inspection or detailed diagrams, the overall impression is one of efficiency and comfort for its class, common for production monohulls of its era featuring fiberglass construction with functional interior finishes.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Hutton 28 frequently commend its robust build quality and spirited sailing performance, particularly appreciating its suitability for both casual cruising and competitive twilight racing. Many find it a capable and enjoyable boat for local waters. The enduring presence of Hutton 28s on the used market, and their participation in various sailing fleets, speaks to their resilience and continued appeal. However, common points of discussion among owners include potential maintenance considerations, such as the steel, lead-filled keel, which some note may require ongoing attention. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with original deck fittings developing leaks over time, necessitating re-bedding. Despite these typical challenges associated with older vessels, the general sentiment among owners is positive, highlighting the Hutton 28 as a well-regarded and fun-to-sail classic.