Irwin 28 Mk Iii Information, Review, Specs

History and Design

The story of the Irwin 28 Mk III is intertwined with the dynamic history of Irwin Yachts, established in 1966 by Ted Irwin in St. Petersburg, Florida. Ted Irwin, a passionate and hands-on boat builder from a young age, quickly made a name for himself in the industry. While Irwin Yachts faced periods of corporate volatility, it consistently remained one of the largest sailboat producers in the United States, primarily utilizing fiberglass construction, which became standard for the era.

Ted Irwin's design philosophy was notably diverse, encompassing both successful racing boats and comfortable cruising vessels. For models like the Irwin 28 Mk III, the emphasis was on creating practical and livable boats for cruising. The Mk III iteration of the Irwin 28 succeeded earlier versions, including the Irwin 28 and Irwin 28 Mk IV, indicating a refinement of the design over its production run. The hull construction typically involved a one-piece molded fiberglass unit, built with hand-laid layers.

Sailing Performance and Handling

The Irwin 28 Mk III is rigged as a masthead sloop, a common and efficient rig for cruising boats of its size. With a sail area to displacement ratio (SA/Disp) of approximately 15.39, the Irwin 28 Mk III is characterized as a moderate performer, suggesting it is a capable cruiser rather than a light-air speedster. Its ballast to displacement ratio of around 0.385 indicates a reasonable level of stability and stiffness, allowing it to stand up to a decent breeze without excessive heel.

The displacement to length (D/L) ratio of approximately 286.20 places the Irwin 28 Mk III in the category of a moderately heavy cruiser. While not designed for extreme speed, this weight contributes to a comfortable motion in a seaway. The boat features a fin keel and a skeg-hung rudder, a configuration known for providing good directional stability and control. Its hull design is considered to be relatively slender for its class, being slimmer than many comparable designs, which can contribute to a slightly more nimble sailing experience. Anecdotal reports suggest the boat handles well on a reach.

Accommodations and Layout

The interior of the Irwin 28 Mk III is designed to maximize comfort and utility within its coastal cruiser brief. While specific layout diagrams are not widely available in public records, boats of this type and era typically featured a V-berth forward, followed by a main salon with settees that could convert into berths, a galley area, and an enclosed head. The construction often involved a functional approach, with elements like chain plates attached to robust knee braces or interior bulkheads. The boat was commonly equipped with a Universal Atomic 4 gasoline engine, a power plant prevalent in many sailboats of the period. Owners generally praise the overall practicality and livability that Irwin designed into these vessels.

Owner's Perspectives

Owners of the Irwin 28 Mk III frequently commend its reliability and the inherent comfort it offers as a cruising sailboat. Many find it to be a well-designed vessel that provides capability at an accessible price point, making it a popular choice in the used boat market for those seeking a practical project or a ready-to-sail cruiser.

However, common maintenance considerations are often noted by the active Irwin owner community. A recurring issue for some owners of the Irwin 28 series has been leaks in the deck-to-hull joint, which may require re-bedding. Additionally, some have reported a phenomenon colloquially termed "keel smile" or "keel scream," referring to cracks that can develop at the keel joint, necessitating repair. Despite these potential maintenance items, the enduring appeal and strong online community support underscore the lasting legacy and practicality of the Irwin 28 Mk III among sailing enthusiasts.